What is a Mould or Mold Release Agent?

A mold release agent is used between your project and the form you are using so you can remove it easily once your work is dry.

You could coat the form with a layer of paper dipped only in water to start with. This means my art will easily slip off the mould (mold) once it is dry.

You could also line it with cling film (Saran wrap) to prevent your work sticking to it. This does work well but it can leave an interesting creased texture if you're using pulp.

This can be quite effective but, if you don't like it, it's easily remedied by adding another thin layer of pulp to the underside of your piece once it has dried and you've removed the cling film.

Some artists use Vaseline or dish washing liquid but I prefer not to use these as they can leave a greasy film on your work which can make decorating difficult.

Commercial release agents are available from most good craft stores, but I have never used one so I can't say how well they will work with paper mache.

Caution

Just a quick word of warning if you're using cling film. I have occasionally found that the work still sticks to the mould even when I've used cling film.

It only seems to happen with the cheaper brands though. I suppose there is a moral in there somewhere. Perhaps it's time for me to stop being a cheapskate;)

Having said that, it is still my release agent of choice. It's easy to use, and it doesn't leave any mess behind.

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