finally starting the template for my fluke!

**JamesGunnels** · 12-18-2014, 11:07 PM

As many tail makers know, especially those who use silicone...making thw fluke template can be a pain. I am just drawing up the fluke at the moment and will be buying the materials for the mold here soon, but I'd like to keep you all up to date on it

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**CowgirlMermaid** · 12-19-2014, 02:31 AM

Nice shape!

**OceanWhisper** · 12-19-2014, 05:37 AM

I like the shape

it looks nice with a scalloped edge

**JamesGunnels** · 12-20-2014, 03:44 AM

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so, this is just another small step forward, and I know many people won't want to just look in on some template, but I'm really proud of it so far and cannot wait to finally! start the mold for the fluke. I was thinking maybe urethane as the mold itself as I plan on making a few tails....I've got friends who really want me to make them one....but none of that will happen until this is a success

any and all tips welcome!

**JamesGunnels** · 12-20-2014, 03:45 AM

Originally Posted by OceanWhisper

I like the shape

it looks nice with a scalloped edge

Thanks a lot! I really like the idea of creating a simple fluke as this is my first silicone tail

**MermanOliver** · 12-20-2014, 04:37 AM

Nice design! I like it!

looking forward to seeing it done!

Just one small practical point: The notch in the middle looks quite sharp pointed. That might induce quite a stress point to the monofin and may lead to cracking of the blade. Maybe just round it out a little?
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**JamesGunnels** · 12-20-2014, 04:46 AM

Well so far it's just the template. I ordered the clay for the mold and a minos monofin. I'm thinking urethane for the actual silicone mold.

**PearlieMae** · 12-20-2014, 08:51 AM

Looks great! I can't wait to watch your progress! Good luck!

**JamesGunnels** · 12-20-2014, 06:07 PM

Originally Posted by PearlieMae

Looks great! I can't wait to watch your progress! Good luck!

Thanks a lot Pearlie! That means a lot, but as you are like...the queen of mermaid tails...I shall be knocking on your door for some tips, if ya have time

**JamesGunnels** · 12-20-2014, 06:08 PM

Originally Posted by CowgirlMermaid

Nice shape!

Bedankt voor het compliment!!! Ik moet nog steeds eraan werken :-) geef toe ben een beetje hulpbehoevend, en zult je nog tips hebben ...ze zijn natuurlijk hartelijk welkom lol

**JamesGunnels** · 12-21-2014, 02:20 AM

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so, currently, I am doing a white coat to cover the blemises. Now, I love then design, but what do any of you think if I were to take the fluke look tattered?

**PearlieMae** · 12-21-2014, 02:35 AM

I don't think you have enough fin TO tatter. If it were a bigger fluke, maybe, but tearing the edge of this one, with its beautiful, clean design, would just ruin it.

**JamesGunnels** · 12-21-2014, 03:11 AM

Originally Posted by PearlieMae

I don't think you have enough in TO tatter. If it were a bigger fluke, maybe, but tearing the edge of this one, with its beautiful, clean design, would just ruin it.

That's what my boyfriend told me, so along with your thoughts, I'd have to agree. I just can't wait to finally start using the molding clay as soon as I get it.

**Miyu** · 12-21-2014, 03:37 AM

Ooh, I like that fluke design

**JamesGunnels** · 12-26-2014, 06:43 PM

So today I bought 5.5 lbs of plastalina clay to start working on the mold for me fluke! I am so excited! Pictures to come soon!

**PearlieMae** · 12-26-2014, 06:53 PM

Woohoo! Excellent!

I need to scroll up before posting dumb questions.

**JamesGunnels** · 12-26-2014, 08:36 PM

Originally Posted by PearlieMae

Woohoo! Excellent!

I need to scroll up before posting dumb questions.

Hahahahaha! I sent you an email earlier. I am gonna start the sculpting tomorrow! :happy:

**JamesGunnels** · 12-27-2014, 06:06 PM

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so currently I have the molding clay I have a few different tools and I bought a resin kit. I don't know exactly what it's going to turn out like so I'm quite curious. Has anyone ever heard of the pour on high gloss finish from Acabado Brillante?

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this is obviously my first major project and i have no clue exactly what I'm going to be using to create the physical mold for the fluke. I just bought a small sized kit as 1) I do not know if it will even work and 2) if it does, there will be enough the side fins

Now as I can tell this is more like a varnish finish product but, if anybody knows if this can be used during a molding process for any part of the tail tips would be greatly appreciated.

**Prairie Mermaid Jamie** · 12-27-2014, 06:29 PM

I tried a similar resin. While it does work it takes a long time to cure and you will need alot of it to make the mold.

I use fiberglass resin. It works the same way but its cheaper and available at any place that sells stuff for body work on cars. As long as you dont have clay that melts I recommend that instead. A resin/cloth mix will make a stronger lighter mold then just resin.