Reusable 3D Printed Silicone Mold Generator

thingiverse

**UPDATE 1:** I learned a valuable lesson from my first print attempt - scaling a fixed design size with fitted holes for screws/bolts can have unintended consequences. This design is not parametric, but it's still worth trying. **UPDATE 2:** The two halves printed successfully, and I highly recommend printing the side with the cone facing up to avoid warping ruining the print. If warped on the outside, the print should still function. *** I've had issues with warping at print corners, so I strongly advise printing the cone side up for each half and printing separately for best results. Sand as needed to reduce friction fitting and flashing of silicone. This week, I'll be testing this design. Depending on the outcome, I might consider replacing the updated larger cone after initial testing. PRINT AT YOUR OWN RISK AND SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE! **Design specs:** * Sized to allow up to 5" of volume cubed * Be sure to leave at least 1/2" of space between the master copy and all walls I created this design based on a reference I found while studying silicone mold creation. Credit goes to Makerbot for their mediocre web-based instructions that inspired me to create my own design. *** **Materials needed:** * 4x M6 x 170mm or longer bolts, full threading not required * 4x M6 Wing Nuts (or preferred) * Holes are pre-slotted for an M6 bolt, unthreaded These materials connect the top and bottom after filling the bottom mold and allowing cure time. **Instructions:** 1. Secure your master copy inside the Bottom mold using a removable method against an inconspicuous area of the master copy to the flat tip of the half cone. 2. Spray release spray, fill the mold with silicone, allow cure time. 3. Attach the Top and Bottom with bolts and wing nuts. 4. Add keys and recognition marks for silicone alignment. 5. Spray release spray, fill the mold with silicone, allow cure time. 6. Separate pieces carefully and remove the new mold you've generated.