Bottle calibration mold demos novel casting methods

Three slip casting methods are examples of the flexibility potters have compared to manufacturers (especially for small molds like this).
1) 3D-printed locks are stuck on to hold the mold halves together. The casting slip itself adheres them. Dipping the flat surfaces and attaching them takes seconds. This method enables aligning halves accurately and then locking them into place.
2) The 3D-printed pouring spout is also attached using the slip (it also helps hold the mold halves together) and acts as a reservoir and pour-out indicator. Thus, this mold needs no spare.
3) There are no natches (the halves were poured into disposable 3D printed PLA masters - and mate perfectly and align easily).
These three factors simplify the mold design, reduce mold size, improve the fit of parts and simplify pouring, demolding and cleanup for this specific type of piece.

Related Pictures

A 3D-printed spout enables a flared rim on cast ware

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It was glued down using the casting slip itself (it stuck in seconds). About ten minutes after draining a fettling knife was run around the inside, then it detached easily. The overhung lip produced imparts structural strength that resists warping, for drying and firing, to the thin walled piece. This spout has advantages over the traditional "spare" built in to the upper part of a mold. It enables a one-piece mold. The lip can be more overhung. Draining is cleaner and easier. Molds are lighter. Extraction can be done sooner and it is easier. The spout does not absorb so there is less scrap. The degree of overhang is adjustable by simply printing new spouts.

Why 3D design and printing is a better way to make slip casting molds

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I dread the traditional mold making process, the mess, all the supplies and tools involved. I am a potter, I make functional ceramics. I am not a mold-maker, but 3D design and printing have put it within my reach. This way more fun! There is no stopping this, it’s the future.
-I spend most time on design, pouring the plaster or rubber takes minutes.
-Many fewer tools and supplies are needed, the process is less messy, as easy as downloading a file, printing it and pouring in plaster - this is doable in my kitchen!
-Sanding of flat mating faces is possible (for better seams than I've ever had). This is because natches can be added later (using embeds).
-I can make my own natches and interlock schemes.
-No spare is needed, the 3D-printed pour spouts work better.
-The range of shapes seems limitless. Especially because designs can be split up into pieces, each printed in optimal orientation (and glued together).
-I make molds through multiple design-print iterations. 3D makes do-overs or changes in design as easy as a reprint and plaster pour. So, I can make a mold just to test an idea!

Links

Glossary	Pour Spout Plaster molds intended for slip casting have a spare at the top to act as a reservoir. This enables overfilling the mold to accommodate the dropping slurry level. 3D-printed spouts make a spare unnecessary.
Glossary	Slip Casting A method of forming ceramics. A deflocculated (low water content) slurry is poured into absorbent plaster molds. As it sits in the mold, usually 10+ minutes, a layer builds against the mold walls. When thick enough the mold is drained.

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