Lost wax casting method is one of the simplest methods used to make gold utensils and jewelry. The method involves the use of a mold that can be made using readily available material. Other equipment required for the lost wax casting method is also cheap and readily available. This method of preparing gold utensils has been in use for centuries and has its origins in the northern parts of Africa. The method is very popular with jewelry designers and makers as it enables them to capture fine details.
Instructions
1. Draw the utensil you intend to make on a piece of paper. Melt down your candles and pour the molten wax into the baking tin. Wait for the wax to set then remove it from the baking tin. Carve the model of your utensil from the wax block by tracing its outline then carving it out of the block with an artist's knife.
2. Place the wax model into the metal flask. Attach the sprue to any part of the model in such a way as to connect it to the plaster that will be poured into the flask. A sprue is a hollow wax rod that can be purchased at an art and crafts shop. Pour the plaster into the metal flask to completely cover the wax model. Allow the plaster to set for at least 2 hours.
3. Remove the set plaster from the metal flask by turning it upside down. Place the plaster mold upside down in the kiln and heat for several hours at 1300° F. As the wax melts it will run out of the plaster investment through the wax sprue, leaving no waxy residue in the set plaster. Thus the name 'lost wax' casting method. The plaster mold will have taken the shape of the wax mold.
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