Molds Tips
Read these 8 Molds Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Doll Making tips and hundreds of other topics.
Marking Molds
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.
Know Your Questions
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.
Marking Molds
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.
Getting the Most for your $$$$
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.
Marking Molds
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.
Shipping Molds
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.
Clean Molds
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.
Buying Molds
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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| Susan Sayour |
