I have been asked several times this summer if I make rubber molds. I don't, but decided that I would post a couple of do-it-yourself articles for those of you who feel inclined to give it a try.

First let me explain why I don't make them.

* The number one reason is time. It is a slow process and therefore time consuming. I like to get things done. From start to finish a rubber mold will take about 4 0r 5 days. Figure about 4 hrs each day depending on size. I am talking about molds that are 12 to 18 inches tall.

* When you are done and ready to use your mold it you need to be an experienced concrete caster to get good results. You should have a real cement mixer and a vibrating table. You can do without these but they make the job easier and go a long way toward getting you the results you are looking for bumper mould for car.

* You need patience. I am inclined to break out the mold to soon; I have to see the results. After years of doing this I still open the molds too soon, especially if it is one that is new to me. Of course 99% of the time this ruins the casting. I get lots of practice this way!

* I want to sell molds that you can take out in the back yard with the kids and mix up a batch of concrete in a bucket, pour into your mold, and in a couple of days you will be taking a very nice casting out of it's mold. The pleasure of seeing a great casting that did not take long to do is what I go for. If you want to do artwork - start stirring up your silicone.

* When you use semi - rigid plastic molds you can do this. This is fun, rubber molds are a lot of work. Once you master all the steps and pull the rubber off your first real good casting the satisfaction is terrific, but it is not going to happen in a couple of days. You should plan on at least a month or more to become a good novice.