How To Make Molds For Plastic Fishing Lures – The Ultimate Guide

Welcome to the ultimate guide on How To Make Molds For Plastic Fishing Lures. As any experienced angler knows, a well-made lure can make all the difference in the success of your fishing expedition. But have you ever considered creating your own custom lures? Not only can it be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to create molds for plastic fishing lures using affordable and accessible materials. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to take your fishing game to the next level, this guide is perfect for anyone looking to make their own custom fishing lures.

So, let’s dive in and learn the process of creating your own molds and lures from start to finish. By the end of this guide, you will have all the knowledge you need to start making your own customized fishing lures that are guaranteed to attract the catch of a lifetime.

Read on to discover the secrets of creating your own molds for plastic fishing lures and take the first step towards creating your very own custom fishing gear.

Materials You Will Need

Before you start making molds for plastic fishing lures, you’ll need to gather a few materials. Here are the essentials you’ll need to make high-quality molds:

Silicone Rubber: You’ll need silicone rubber to make your molds. Make sure you use high-quality silicone rubber for the best results.

Release Agent: A release agent will help prevent your plastic lure from sticking to the mold. There are many different types of release agents available, so make sure you choose the right one for your needs.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: You’ll need measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the silicone rubber and release agent.

Stirring Sticks: You’ll need stirring sticks to mix the silicone rubber and release agent together.

A Mold Box: A mold box will help you create a uniform shape and size for your mold. You can purchase a mold box or make your own using wood or plastic.

Having these materials on hand will help you create high-quality molds for your plastic fishing lures. With the right materials, you’ll be able to make molds that will last for many uses.

Silicone Rubber

1. Durability: Silicone rubber is known for its incredible durability, making it the perfect material for creating molds for plastic fishing lures that will be used repeatedly.

2. Flexibility: The flexibility of silicone rubber allows it to capture intricate details of the plastic fishing lure, ensuring that the resulting mold is an exact replica.

3. Easy to Work With: Silicone rubber is easy to mix, pour, and work with, making it a great choice for those new to mold making.

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use material for making molds for plastic fishing lures, silicone rubber is an excellent option. With its durability, flexibility, and ease of use, it can help you create high-quality molds that will last for years to come.

Catalyst

A catalyst is a substance that is used to initiate the curing process of the silicone rubber. It is essential to use the right amount of catalyst, as using too much or too little can affect the quality of the mold. Here are some important things to know about catalyst:

• Types of Catalyst: There are different types of catalyst available in the market, such as tin-cured and platinum-cured catalyst. Tin-cured catalysts are less expensive but can produce molds with less detail. Platinum-cured catalysts are more expensive but produce high-quality molds with better detail.
• Measuring Catalyst: The amount of catalyst required depends on the silicone rubber being used. The recommended amount is usually mentioned in the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a digital scale to measure the catalyst accurately, as even a small deviation can affect the curing process.
• Working Time: The working time of the silicone rubber depends on the type of catalyst used. Tin-cured catalysts have a shorter working time, while platinum-cured catalysts have a longer working time. It is important to mix and pour the silicone rubber within the working time to ensure proper curing.

It is important to handle the catalyst with care, as it can cause skin irritation or even burns if it comes in contact with the skin. Always wear gloves and protective clothing when handling catalyst.

Plasticine Clay

Plasticine clay, also known as modeling clay, is an essential component in the process of making molds for plastic fishing lures. This type of clay has a pliable and soft texture, making it easy to mold and shape into any form needed.

• Consistency: The clay needs to have a consistency that is firm enough to hold its shape, but soft enough to be molded easily.
• Color: It is important to choose a clay color that will provide a high contrast with the color of the lure being molded.
• Drying Time: The clay needs to be able to dry quickly and completely so that it can be used repeatedly for multiple molds.

When working with plasticine clay, it is important to keep in mind that it can leave residue on the mold, which can affect the final product. Therefore, it is recommended to use a release agent before using the clay to ensure that it can be easily removed from the mold.

Preparing The Lure For The Mold

Clean: Before making a mold, you need to make sure that the lure is completely clean. Any residue, dirt, or debris can affect the quality of the mold and the resulting plastic lure. Use a cleaning solution or rubbing alcohol to clean the lure thoroughly.

Mount: Once the lure is clean, you need to mount it onto a board or a flat surface. This will help keep the lure in place during the molding process. You can use double-sided tape or a small amount of adhesive to secure the lure to the surface.

Seal: Next, you need to seal the lure to prevent any silicone rubber or casting resin from leaking out. You can use a small amount of petroleum jelly or a similar product to create a barrier around the lure.

Support: If your lure has any thin or fragile parts, you may need to add support structures before making the mold. This will help keep those parts from bending or breaking during the molding process. Use a material like plasticine clay to create the support structures.

Remove Hooks and Hardware

Before making a mold of your plastic fishing lure, the first step is to remove any hooks or hardware that may be attached to it. This will ensure that the mold captures only the shape and details of the lure and not any additional parts.

Use pliers to carefully remove the hooks and any other hardware, such as split rings or swivels. Be sure to do this slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the lure or distorting its shape.

If your lure has any stubborn hooks or hardware that won’t budge, you can try applying heat to soften the plastic and make it easier to remove. Use a heat gun or a hairdryer on a low setting and direct the heat towards the affected area.

After removing the hooks and hardware, give the lure a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt, debris, or residue that may be present. This will help ensure a clean and accurate mold.

Clean The Lure

Step 1: Prepare a cleaning solution by mixing warm water and dish soap in a container.

Step 2: Soak the lure in the cleaning solution for a few minutes, then use a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any dirt or debris.

Step 3: Rinse the lure thoroughly with clean water and dry it off with a towel or cloth.

Step 4: Check the lure for any remaining debris or residue, and repeat the cleaning process if necessary.

Cleaning the lure is an important step in preparing it for the mold-making process. Any dirt or debris left on the lure could interfere with the molding process and affect the quality of the final product. By taking the time to clean the lure properly, you’ll ensure that the mold-making process goes smoothly and that your plastic fishing lure turns out just the way you want it to.

Coat The Lure

Step 1: Choose a Mold Release Agent

Before coating your lure with the silicone rubber, you’ll need to choose a mold release agent. This will help prevent the rubber from sticking to the lure and ruining the mold. There are many mold release agents available, such as petroleum jelly, silicone spray, or liquid soap.

Step 2: Apply The Mold Release Agent

Using a soft cloth or brush, apply a thin layer of the mold release agent to the surface of the lure. Make sure you cover every part of the lure that will come into contact with the silicone rubber. Take your time and apply the agent carefully to ensure good coverage.

Step 3: Mix The Silicone Rubber

Mix the silicone rubber according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, you’ll need to mix a base and a catalyst together in equal amounts. Stir the two components together until they’re thoroughly mixed.

Step 4: Apply The Silicone Rubber

Using a brush or spatula, apply the silicone rubber to the lure. Make sure you cover the entire lure and that the rubber is evenly spread. Be careful not to create any air bubbles in the rubber, as these can ruin the mold.Now that you’ve coated your lure with silicone rubber, it’s time to wait for it to cure. The curing time will depend on the type of silicone rubber you’re using, so be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the rubber has cured, you can carefully remove the mold from the lure and start making your own plastic fishing lures.

Making The Mold – Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare the Silicone Rubber

Step 2: Apply Catalyst to the Silicone Rubber

Step 3: Mix the Silicone Rubber and Catalyst

Step 4: Pour the Mixture over the Lure

Create A Mold Box

Before creating a mold box, gather all the necessary tools like a box cutter, ruler, masking tape, and cardboard sheets.

Using a box cutter, cut the cardboard sheets according to the size of the lure, making sure to leave a 1-2 inch gap around the sides and bottom.

Assemble the cardboard pieces together with masking tape, creating a box-like structure around the lure. Ensure that the walls of the box are at least an inch above the highest point of the lure.

Mix The Silicone Rubber And Catalyst

Before mixing the silicone rubber and catalyst, make sure to read the instructions carefully. It is essential to have the correct ratio of silicone rubber to catalyst to ensure the mold sets correctly.

Using a disposable plastic or paper cup, pour the desired amount of silicone rubber. Then add the correct amount of catalyst to the silicone rubber, as stated in the instructions. It is crucial to mix the two components thoroughly, making sure there are no streaks or unmixed areas.

Once you have mixed the silicone rubber and catalyst, you have a limited time to pour the mixture into the mold box. Make sure to pour the mixture in a slow and steady stream, avoiding any air bubbles or pockets.

After pouring the silicone rubber and catalyst mixture, tap the mold box on a flat surface to release any air bubbles that may be trapped in the mixture. Then, let the mixture cure according to the instructions before removing it from the mold box.

Curing The Mold

Curing process: Once the silicone has been applied, it must be allowed to cure or dry. This is usually done at room temperature, and can take anywhere from several hours to a full day depending on the thickness of the mold and the type of silicone used.

Release agent: Before pouring the resin, apply a mold release agent to the silicone surface. This will help release the resin casting without damaging the mold.

De-molding: After the resin has cured, the mold can be removed. The mold should be flexible enough to peel away from the casting easily, but if it’s sticking, try gently bending the mold to release the casting.

Cleaning: Clean the mold with soap and water after use to remove any residue. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they can damage the mold and shorten its lifespan.

Storage: To preserve the life of the mold, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid stacking heavy objects on top of the mold, as this can warp its shape and affect its usability.

Allow Sufficient Curing Time

After the mold is fully poured, it must cure before use. The length of time required for the mold to cure will depend on the type of silicone rubber used. In general, most silicone rubbers require at least 12 hours to cure, but some may take up to 24 hours.

During the curing process, it is important to keep the mold in a dry, well-ventilated area. Moisture can interfere with the curing process and cause the mold to become brittle or discolored.

Removing The Lure From The Mold

Once the silicone rubber has cured, it’s time to remove the lure from the mold. Begin by gently prying the mold box open using a flathead screwdriver.

Once the mold box is open, carefully peel back the silicone rubber to expose the lure. Be sure to take your time and not to damage the lure as you remove it from the mold.

Next, remove any excess silicone rubber from the lure using a pair of scissors or a sharp knife. Be sure to trim any excess rubber as close to the lure as possible without cutting the lure itself.

Finally, use a small file or sandpaper to smooth any rough edges on the lure. This will ensure that the lure is ready for use and will swim correctly in the water.

Remove The Mold Box

Before removing the mold box, ensure that the silicone has fully cured, which can take up to 24 hours. To remove the mold box, use a utility knife to cut away the silicone from the bottom and sides of the box. Then, carefully pull the box away from the silicone mold.

Inspect the mold carefully to ensure that it has not been damaged during the removal process. If there are any tears or holes in the mold, it will need to be repaired before it can be used again.

Once the mold box has been removed, remove any excess silicone from the mold using a sharp knife or scissors. Be sure to remove any excess silicone from the pour spout and air vents.

The mold is now ready to use to create new lures. Store the mold in a cool, dry place to ensure that it stays in good condition and is ready for use when needed.

Release The Lure From The Mold

After allowing the mold to cure fully, it’s time to release the lure from the mold. This can be done by removing the rubber bands or clamps that were holding the mold together.

Next, gently flex and twist the mold to loosen it from the lure. If the lure is still stuck, try running warm water over the mold to help release it.

• Be patient during this process, as forcing the mold can damage both the mold and the lure.
• Inspect the lure closely after removal from the mold. Look for any air bubbles or other imperfections that may have occurred during the molding process.
• Trim any excess material from the lure using scissors or a hobby knife. Be careful not to cut into the lure itself.

Finally, test the lure in water to ensure that it swims correctly and behaves as intended. If any issues arise, adjustments can be made to the mold and the molding process can be repeated.

Trim Excess Material

Once the lure is removed from the mold, it’s time to trim any excess material. Use a pair of scissors or a craft knife to carefully remove any flash or excess material from the edges of the lure. Be careful not to cut into the lure itself or damage any fine details.

If you notice any imperfections on the surface of the lure, you can use a piece of sandpaper to smooth out the surface. Be sure to use a fine grit sandpaper and work gently, avoiding the risk of accidentally sanding away any details or features of the lure.

Cleaning The Mold

Remove Loose Debris: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove any loose debris or dirt from the mold. Pay special attention to crevices and hard-to-reach areas.

Wash With Soap And Water: Mix mild dish soap with warm water and use a sponge to clean the mold. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft towel.

Disinfect The Mold: To disinfect the mold, create a solution of equal parts water and white vinegar. Apply the solution to the mold and let it sit for 15 minutes. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Store The Mold Properly: Once the mold is cleaned and dry, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap to prevent dust and debris from settling on the surface.

Remove Any Residue

After cleaning the mold, it’s important to remove any residue left on it. Use a clean cloth to wipe the mold, paying attention to any crevices or corners where residue can accumulate.

If there is any stubborn residue, use a mild solvent or a specialized cleaning solution that is safe for the type of silicone used to make the mold. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the mold.

Once the mold is free of any residue, rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any cleaning product that may be left on the surface. Make sure that the mold is completely dry before storing it to prevent any growth of mold or bacteria.

Regularly cleaning your mold will not only ensure its longevity but will also prevent any contamination of your baits or lures that you make with it. So, make sure to take the time to properly clean and maintain your mold after each use.

Troubleshooting Your Mold

If you’re having issues with your mold, don’t worry, there are solutions. First, check that your mixture of silicone rubber and catalyst was correct. An incorrect ratio can cause issues with the mold’s quality.

If the mold has air bubbles, you may have not properly mixed the silicone and catalyst or applied too much pressure when pouring the mixture into the mold. To avoid air bubbles, try pouring the mixture slowly and at a lower height.

If the mold has a rough texture or is not flexible, this may be due to not enough catalyst or not enough mixing. Check the instructions and make sure to thoroughly mix the components and use the correct ratio of silicone and catalyst.

If the mold is not releasing the lure easily, this may be due to not using enough mold release spray or not allowing enough time for the mold to cure. Apply mold release spray before pouring the mixture, and make sure to allow sufficient curing time before removing the lure from the mold.

If the mold has tears or is not holding its shape, this may be due to using a mold box that is too small or not reinforcing the mold with additional support. Consider using a larger mold box or reinforcing the mold with additional materials.

Bubbles in the Mold

Identifying the Problem: If you notice bubbles in your mold, it is likely caused by air getting trapped during the mixing process. This is a common issue and can be easily fixed.

Preventing Bubbles: To prevent bubbles, mix your casting material slowly and thoroughly, and tap the mold gently to help release any trapped air bubbles. You can also use a mold release spray to help the material flow smoothly and avoid air pockets.

Fixing the Problem: If you already have bubbles in your mold, you can try using a toothpick or small needle to carefully pop the bubbles. Another option is to fill in the bubbles with a small amount of additional casting material and allow it to cure fully before removing the excess.

Frequently Asked Questions