waste mold casting

A waste mold is a type of mold used in sculpture that is destroyed when the cast is removed. This process is part of casting and molding techniques, which are essential for creating sculptures or making copies of existing ones.12

The basic procedure involves creating a mold, typically in plaster, over an original clay model. For sculptures in the round, a multi-section mold is needed. Once the plaster sets, the mold is removed from the clay, reassembled, and filled with a material like plaster, concrete, or resin. The mold is then carefully broken away from the cast, destroying itself in the process. This method is distinct from piece molds, which are designed to be removed without damage and can be reused.2