Lifecasting - Lifecasting Process

Lifecasting Process

There are a variety of lifecasting techniques which differ to some degree; the following steps illustrate a general and simplified outline of the process:

1. Model preparation. Unless alginate is used, an oily substance such as petroleum jelly is applied to the skin and/or hair of the model to help prevent the mold adhering to their skin and hair. Alginate does not stick to skin or hair. If the lifecast is to include the face or head, a rubber swimming cap may be worn to prevent the mold from adhering to the head hair.
2. Model pose. The model takes the desired stationary pose, and must remain in this pose until the mold is removed from the body. Supports to help the model are carefully designed.
3. Mold application. Mold material is applied to the surface of the model's body. The mold material is usually applied as a thick liquid that takes the shape of the body. Body parts may also be dunked into containers of mold media (except plaster).
4. Mold curing and reinforcement. The applied mold material cures to a more rigid and solid form. Sometimes more materials are added at this point to further strengthen and support the mold.
5. Demold. Once the reinforced mold has attained the necessary strength it is carefully removed from the model's body.
6. Mold reassembly and modification. If the mold was created in multiple parts the parts are now sometimes joined back together. The mold itself may be repaired, altered or added to. Walls may be constructed to help contain the casting material, or further mold reinforcements added.
7. Casting. A casting material is painted or poured into the mold, usually in liquid form, though deformable solids can be used as well. Artists commonly incorporate hanging hardware at this stage as well.
8. Demold cast. Once the casting material has acquired the shape of the mold and cured fully, the cast is carefully removed from the mold. Molds may survive but often do not, resulting in one-of-a-kind, "one-out" works. Silicone molds will last for many castings.