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We redid this mold to apply new CAD methods and a new tool, OnShape (instead of Fusion 360). This mold version offers several advantages:
-It has a hybrid standard plaster spare (although short) coupled with a 3D printed spout that fits down into the spare. The spout doubles as a cutting guide to enable a higher-quality lip.
-These prototype 3D printed case mold halves only weigh 105g (at 1.2mm thickness).
-The procedure to create this is much simpler than our v1 method.
-The OnShape timeline is flexible, I can roll back and forth, disable individual steps and go down alternative paths from any point.
-No side rails are needed, this mold removes from the set plaster using a heat gun.
-This employs our new v3 natch system.
-The matching edges are chamfered to easier splitting of the halves when the piece is ready to remove.
-The mating surfaces are flatter, no sanding is needed, the halves fit together really well (assuming plaster is poured with these molds sitting on a planar surface).
-The printing artifacts continue to present no problems, by the time pieces are glazed they are not visible. That being said, they do appear like wood grain if glaze are transparent enough.
This picture has its own page with more detail, click here to see it.
This shape is one of many suggestions I got from MidJourney.com when I described what I needed. Consider the advantages of this for slip-casting:
-The piece has thick walls, that will help prevent warping during firing (enabling using a clay body that is highly vitreous).
-The shape, wide at the bottom to narrower at the top - and then a flared rim will also resist warping.
-The flat sides will be practical for applying ceramic transfers (this decoration can be done exactly that way). Of course, the transfer will have to be cut in a semi-circle to lay properly.
-The heavy handle should make it possible to cast the mug with the handle attached.
-The smaller foot ring sets it up off the table and should enable stacking.
This surface character will be possible using an opacified light-colored glossy oatmeal glaze - the pigment in an iron-bearing body should bleed through wherever the glaze is thinner (e.g. on contour edges like the rim).
Projects |
Coffee Mug Slip Casting Mold via 3D Printing
A potter can now use AI, 3D CAD, 3D printing and custom clay bodies to slip-cast beautiful quality stoneware pottery mugs. It is efficient and practical. |
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