How to Use Silicone Molds Correctly
(and Make Them Last!)

Not all molds are created equal—learn how to prep, use, and clean silicone molds so you don’t waste money replacing them too soon.

So, you’ve bought shiny new silicone molds for your resin projects. They look so perfect, so smooth—like little silicone dreams waiting to become coasters, keychains, or that beautiful tray you saw on Pinterest. But here’s the thing: if you treat them wrong, those perfect molds can end up scratched, torn, or permanently “embellished” with dust, cat hair, or worse. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen so you can keep your molds (and your wallet) happy for a long time.

Why Silicone Molds Are a Resin Artist’s Best Friend

Silicone molds are the ultimate resin art sidekicks. They’re affordable, flexible, and, if you treat them with love, endlessly reusable. One mold can produce dozens of resin pieces if cared for properly, so it’s like investing in a creative partner rather than a one-time fling. Plus, they make unmolding your cured resin creations as easy as peeling a sticker—no chiseling, swearing, or praying involved.

The Affordability Factor

When you’re starting out with resin art, you want your dollars going toward resin and pigments, not constantly replacing ruined molds. A single silicone mold can last for dozens of pours, making it one of the most cost-effective parts of your resin supply stash. Take care of it, and it won’t become a repeat item in your shopping cart every month.

Reusable Magic for Endless Creativity

The beauty of silicone molds is that one shape can be used over and over for completely different looks. The same coaster mold can make an elegant marbled set one day and a glitter-bombed rainbow masterpiece the next. Treat them kindly, and your creative options become limitless.

Prepping Your Silicone Molds Before Pouring Resin

Prepping your molds is like setting the stage before a big performance. If the surface isn’t clean, your resin piece will show every single speck of dust or smudge. A simple rinse with warm water or a quick wipe with a lint-free cloth makes all the difference. Trust me—nothing’s worse than pulling your cured resin out only to find a giant piece of fuzz immortalized forever.

Clean and Dry: The Golden Rule

Resin and water are like oil and water—they don’t mix. Any leftover moisture in your mold can cause imperfections or cloudiness in your final piece. Always make sure your molds are squeaky clean and bone dry before pouring. A soft microfiber cloth works wonders here.

When to Use Mold Release Spray (and When Not To)

Mold release spray can be a lifesaver for molds with lots of tiny details or deep crevices, making demolding smoother and preventing tears. But for simple shapes like coasters or trays, you can often skip it. Save the spray for those intricate, fussy molds where resin loves to cling on for dear life.

Pouring Resin Without Damaging the Mold

Pouring resin isn’t just about filling the cavity—it’s about treating the mold gently so it lasts. Pour slowly and steadily to avoid bubbles, and always check your resin’s temperature. Resin that’s too hot can warp or weaken the silicone over time. Remember, this isn’t a race—slow and steady keeps your mold in good shape.

Ideal Temperature Tips

Room temperature resin is your friend. Cold resin can trap bubbles, while overheated resin can make your mold brittle over time. If your workspace is chilly, warm your resin bottles in a tub of lukewarm water for a few minutes before mixing. Just don’t go overboard—this is resin art, not soup.

Why Patience Saves Your Molds

It’s tempting to twist, stretch, or peel your resin piece out the second it feels solid. But waiting the full cure time prevents you from tearing the mold or damaging delicate edges. Patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a money-saver.

Removing Resin Pieces the Right Way

When it’s finally time to unmold your piece, resist the urge to yank it out like you’re starting a lawnmower. Instead, gently peel the silicone back from the edges and let the piece pop out naturally. For stubborn pieces, try popping the whole mold in the freezer for five minutes. Cold makes the resin contract slightly, and your piece will come out like magic.

Tricks to Avoid Tearing the Mold Edges

If you ever feel like your resin piece is fighting back, stop pulling. Instead, loosen the edges gradually, working your way around the mold. This avoids stretching or tearing the delicate silicone, especially around thin edges or handles.

Cleaning and Storing Silicone Molds for Longevity

Here’s the truth: the way you clean and store your molds determines how long they last. Skip harsh chemicals, avoid scrubbing too hard, and never store them piled under heavy stuff. Silicone is tough but not invincible.

Best Cleaners That Won’t Ruin Your Molds

Warm water, mild dish soap, and your hands are all you need. Rinse gently, pat them dry, and avoid anything abrasive. Alcohol or acetone might seem like quick fixes, but they break down silicone over time, turning your mold brittle.

Storage Tips for Long-Lasting Molds

Lay your molds flat in a drawer or plastic bin, away from sunlight and dust. Avoid folding or stacking heavy items on top—they’ll lose their shape faster than a cheap mattress. A little TLC in storage goes a long way.

Retaining the Polished Finish of Your Mold

The glossy shine on the inside of your silicone mold is what gives your resin pieces that gorgeous, glass-like finish. Over time, rough handling, harsh cleaning products, or scraping tools can scratch this polished surface, leaving your resin pieces looking dull or cloudy instead of crystal clear. Once the mold loses its smooth shine, no amount of polishing will bring it back—your pieces will always come out with a matte finish. That’s your cue that the mold has reached the end of its life and it’s time for a replacement. Treat the mold gently from day one, and you’ll keep that perfect, glossy veneer for as many pours as possible.

Common Mistakes Beginners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

We’ve all been there: blasting bubbles with a torch too close to the mold (hello, melted edges), pouring resin into dusty molds, or storing them in a sunny window until they turn yellow and sad. The fix? Keep your torch at a safe distance, clean thoroughly, and store molds away from direct light.

My Personal Experience: Rookie Mistakes I’ll Never Repeat

When I started resin art, I was so excited I skipped half the prep steps. My first project? A coaster set permanently featuring a fly and a mysterious dent shaped like a bottle cap. Lesson learned: a few extra minutes of care saves hours of regret—and money spent replacing ruined molds.

Final Tips to Keep Your Molds Looking New

Clean after every use, handle with care, and store properly. Avoid sharp tools inside the mold, keep heat sources at a distance, and don’t rush the curing process. Your molds will stay smooth, flexible, and ready for the next masterpiece.