how to make soft plastic fishing lure molds

4 min read 15-01-2025

how to make soft plastic fishing lure molds

Meta Description: Learn how to create your own soft plastic fishing lure molds at home! This comprehensive guide covers materials, techniques, and tips for making durable, professional-quality molds for crafting custom lures. Discover how to design your own lure shapes and master the art of mold making for a rewarding DIY fishing project. Get started today and save money while enjoying personalized fishing lures!

Introduction: Crafting Your Own Fishing Lures

Creating your own soft plastic fishing lures opens a world of customization and cost savings. This detailed guide will walk you through the process of making your own soft plastic fishing lure molds. With a bit of patience and the right materials, you can craft professional-quality molds to produce unique and effective lures tailored to your fishing style. This process allows you to experiment with different shapes, colors, and scents, resulting in a truly personalized fishing experience. Let's get started!

Materials You'll Need

Before diving in, gather the necessary materials. Having everything prepared beforehand streamlines the process and prevents interruptions.

Essential Materials:

Silicone Mold Making Material: This is the heart of your mold. Choose a high-quality, platinum-cure silicone designed for mold making. Avoid cheaper options; they may not produce durable molds. Several reputable brands offer excellent silicone specifically for lure making. Research and choose a brand that matches your budget and expected use.
Master Model: This is the original lure shape you'll create the mold from. You can carve this from wood, wax, or use a 3D-printed model. Ensure the master model is smooth and free of imperfections.
Mixing Containers: Use disposable plastic cups or containers for mixing the silicone. You'll need separate containers for each component.
Mixing Sticks: Disposable plastic or wooden sticks are ideal for thoroughly mixing the silicone.
Release Agent (Optional but Recommended): A release agent prevents the silicone from sticking to your master model, making removal easier. Several options are available from mold-making supply stores.
Scale: An accurate scale is crucial for measuring the silicone components precisely, ensuring the correct cure.
Gloves: Protect your hands from the silicone. Disposable nitrile gloves are a good choice.
Pressure Pot (Recommended): A pressure pot helps degas the silicone, removing air bubbles for a smoother, more durable mold.

Recommended Additional Tools:

Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from splashes or fumes.
Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area.
Vacuum Chamber (Optional): If you want to eliminate even more air bubbles from your silicone, a vacuum chamber can be used.

Creating Your Master Model

Your master model is the foundation of your mold. Its quality directly impacts the quality of your final lures.

Designing Your Lure:

Consider the target fish: Design your lure with the target species in mind. Think about their preferred food sources and habitats.
Keep it simple: Begin with a simple design. Complex shapes are more challenging to mold.
Add details later: If you want intricate details, consider adding them after the initial mold is created, using separate silicone castings.

Making Your Master Model:

Carving: Wood is a popular choice for carving, offering flexibility and control. Use sharp carving tools and sand the model thoroughly to achieve a smooth finish.
Wax: Wax offers easier shaping and detailing but requires specific techniques for mold making. Choose a wax that is compatible with your chosen silicone.
3D Printing: A 3D printer offers precise control over complex shapes. This approach allows for intricate designs that may be harder to achieve through traditional carving.

Mixing and Pouring the Silicone

This step requires precision and patience to create a durable, high-quality mold.

Preparing the Master Model:

Clean the Model: Thoroughly clean and dry your master model to remove any dust or debris.
Apply Release Agent: If using a release agent, apply a thin, even coat to the master model. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Create a Mold Box (if necessary): For larger lures, build a mold box from wood or cardboard to contain the silicone.

Mixing the Silicone:

Measure Carefully: Use your scale to accurately measure the silicone components according to the manufacturer's instructions. Incorrect ratios can lead to improper curing.
Mix Thoroughly: Mix the silicone components slowly and thoroughly, ensuring there are no streaks or unmixed areas. This is crucial for achieving a consistent cure.
Degassing (Optional): If you have a pressure pot, degas the silicone according to the manufacturer's instructions to remove air bubbles.

Pouring the Silicone:

Pour Slowly: Pour the silicone slowly and steadily over the master model to avoid trapping air bubbles.
Eliminate Air Pockets: Gently tap or vibrate the mold box to release any trapped air bubbles.
Allow to Cure: Allow the silicone to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This can take several hours or even days, depending on the type of silicone.

Demolding and Finishing

Once cured, carefully remove the master model from the silicone mold.

Removing the Master Model:

Gently Pry: Use a putty knife or other blunt instrument to gently pry the master model away from the silicone.
Inspect the Mold: Check the mold for any imperfections or air bubbles.
Clean the Mold: Clean any excess silicone from the mold using a soft cloth or brush.

Finishing Touches (Optional):

Adding Sprue: If you are making a multi-cavity mold, create a sprue – a channel that allows you to pour plastic into the cavities.
Reinforcement: Consider reinforcing your mold, especially for larger or complex shapes.

Using Your Soft Plastic Fishing Lure Molds

Once your molds are complete, you are ready to start creating your custom lures.

Pouring Soft Plastic:

Prepare the Plastic: Follow the instructions for your soft plastic material.
Pour into Molds: Pour the soft plastic into the mold cavities and remove any air bubbles.
Cure the Lures: Allow the lures to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Removing the Lures:

Gently Remove: Once cured, gently remove the lures from the mold.
Finishing: Add any finishing touches, such as painting or adding scents.

Conclusion: Embark on Your Lure-Making Journey

Creating your own soft plastic fishing lure molds provides a rewarding and highly customizable fishing experience. By following this guide and employing patience and attention to detail, you can produce professional-quality molds that will save you money while allowing you to craft unique and effective lures. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all materials used. Now, go forth and create your dream lures!