I began this week’s molding and casting assignment by creating the alginate mold mixture using the given ratios on the instruction sheet (alginate mold powder + water). Once the components were thoroughly mixed, I then plunged my index and middle finger of my right hand into the mixture. After approximately 5-10 minutes of holding my fingers still, I slowly wiggled them, and felt a little bit of release from the alginate mold. Then, I carefully pulled out my fingers. The mold holes were made!

Next, I mixed the suggested ratios of rockite powder and water together to create a mixture that I poured into the alginate finger mold holes. Using the provided 3D printed holder, I propped two screws up in the finger holes (see picture below).

I came back after 24 hours, after the rockite cement had set and hardened, and then slowly pulled the fingers out of the mold. After some maneuvering, they came out quite easily, much to my surprise (see fingers below).

In order to make another pair of identical fingers, I proceeded to mix together the same ratio of rockite and water, and poured it into the now empty mold holes. I repeated the process of waiting 24 hours, and once again, slowly removing them from their molds (see pictures of empty molds and second set of fingers below). The new fingers look darker gray, because they are still slightly wet from coming out of the alginate molds, while the 1st fingers I made are a lighter gray since they have dried completely.

Before beginning my post-processing methods, I waited ~24 hours for the newest fingers to dry completely.

After that, I evaluated all 4 fingers and chose the identical set that looked the best for submission. I sanded the bases of the fingers lightly with 400 grit sandpaper. This gave the edges a smooth finish.

Next, I selected an appealing metallic silver spray paint color, and coated my fingers on all sides with a light coat of paint. Then, I set them out to dry.

Here is the finished product!

I was surprised by how simple and relatively easy this was, and the finished product was quite charming.

Picture of clean workspace:

Cost Analysis:

Type	Item	Price	Source	Quantity	Total
Materials	Alginate Molding Powder	$18.56	Amazon	1 bag	$18.56
	Rockite Cement Powder	$4.17	Amazon	1 pd box	$4.17
	Screws	$3.99	Amazon	1 box	$3.99
	Metallic Silver Spray Paint	$6.83	Amazon	1 can	$6.83
Labor	Molding & Casting Operator	$17.45/hr	ZipRecruiter	1 hr	$17.45
Final Cost					$51