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Can't find a mold you need? Using a felt marking pen, write information on your mold. Molds usually have the name of the doll and artist inprinted on the outside. Highlight these words. Open the head mold to see which side the face is located. On the OUTSIDE of the mold, write the word FACE.
Have your questions figured out before you call to purchase a mold. My questions are usually: 1. Is the pattern sized for the mold (if the mold comes in different sizes)? 2. What is the shipping cost? 3. Do you give a discount? Sometimes I'll ask what type of credit card do they accept.
When marking small molds, I often draw a picture instead of writing names. On my snowbaby molds - which are about 5 inches long by 3 inches tall, it is easier to find the one I need if I have a drawing of a snowbaby sitting or standing.
When buying new molds, try getting head molds that fit molds you already have in stock. You can mix molds from different companies but, be sure, when people order greenware they know that information. I lost a customer when someone sold me a mold set that didn't belong together and didn't tell me. It was a doll I didn't know anything about but my mail order customer did.
Often doll artist use the same molds for several dolls. Now when I get a mold I list the names of all doll heads that I have that uses that mold. Makes my life much easier.
When shipping molds be sure to use wide tape to keep the molds pieces from rubbing against itself. Don't trust rubber bands to hold that mold. You will find yourself with a broken mold.
Mix one tablespoon of boric acid to two cups of hot water and spritz the inside of the mold. Strap it tight and let it dry for a few days.
When you first start buying molds, buy from dealers you know or have seen advertised month after month. Molds are your second biggest investment after a kiln.
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Lynda Moultry |