Questions about a silicone tail

[MermaidBrandie]

So I mostly lurk on here, but I was wondering if anyone had ever used chain-mail scales like these: http://www.artbeads.com/embmt-0274.html for their scale mold for a silicone tail? I love the way they look and was considering using them, overlapping them on wood, for making the scale mold. They come in two sizes, so I'd be able to taper to the smaller size at the fluke and the waist...but has anyone used them?

[PearlieMae]

At a dime apiece, I seriously doubt it.

Make the same shape in clay and do a test!

[Mermaid Dottie]

Seconded!

[Morticia Mermaid]

I actually bought some of those from TheRingLord (was going to use them on a top). Decided to use them as a "stencil" to hand cut out my foam scales to create my scale mold for my tails instead. Round scales are alright, but I wanted more of a predatory look and the shape of these work great for that.

[MermaidBrandie]

That's what I was wanting too! The metal ones have a little fold in them, to give them shape I believe, I wanted that as well. But you didn't just use the metal ones? Hmm...

[PearlieMae]

In order to get that fold shape, you will have to sculpt it in clay or something, cutting it out of foam will give you the 2D shape, but not the raised detail. Using the actual metal pieces will be a nightmare because you'll have to seal them down to something so your molding material doesnt flow under them.

[MermaidBrandie]

Hmm i didn't think about sealing them down. That's a good point. btw, I'm the one that sent you the message on etsy about putting the metal ring in the silicone keychain. :) hi! Thanks for responding to this.

[PearlieMae]

I am happy to help!

I figured it was you. What are the chances that name would pop up twice? I've tried putting a metal ring in it, but it rips out of the silicone. I could try a piece of chain, that should work. I'll keep you posted. I've had mine on my keychain for months and the leather is strong as ever.

[malinghi]

I agree with PearlieMae. I can't imagine how you would seal them. If you could, and you didn't mind the cost, they would make a great shape for scales.

Man, mold making seems like a great application for 3d printing. Imagine how much freedom you would have if you could design the scales in a CAD software and print the mold. It's too bad that its still so expensive.

[PearlieMae]

3D printing would be great! But you know, sometimes I think we as mers start to get a little detail obsessed...I know I am!

[Rogue Siren]

*has free access to a 3D printer at school....*

[Anahita]

*has free access to a 3D printer at school....*

*is super jealous* ;)

[Rogue Siren]

Haha. X3 If anyone has smaller design ideas (maybe to use sorta like a stamp), I'll be happy to print them and send them to you for the cost of shipping. :) (that is if you have the 3D file)

[MermaidBrandie]

Oh the idea of 3d printing the design is fantastic!! @Pearliemae - Thanks! I've used that same leather for keychains I've made personally and it wear it out withing a few months! lol I'm super rough on stuff sometimes.

[Stefani]

Hello, I have a problem with drying silicone "Dragon Skin".
My mold is not liquid plastic, silicone is yesterday buy dragon skin for my tail, the top is dry, but the bottom is still sticky (humeda. ..) why? that I can do?

[PearlieMae]

What did you use for your mold? It sounds like you may have used an incompatible material and that could be causing a curing inhibition problem with your silicone.

[Stefani]

I use the other silicone mold.

[Stefani]

I can fix it somehow?

[PearlieMae]

I'm really not sure! Maybe some more experienced silicone tailmakers can offer some advice?

[Stefani]

ok, thanks!