Pete,
The fence is just scraps as once the backer is finished it is not needed anymore. It can stay if its solid or chipped off.
The only release agent I use is to release the rubber mold from the backer. I just use of bit of the wifes spray Pam or what ever brands around. (Cod oil might be a bit heavy here) You could just use your lovely wifes bath powder or baby powder. If you make a mold with no gauze or stiffener you should use powder on the outside of your mold as when you roll it off your piece it has a tendency to stick to itself. The actual mold does not require release agent as it will still be flexible enough to gently peel off your casting even with a light gauze stiffiner inside it.
Latex rubber is a combination of natural latex, water and 100% ammonia. Thats why it smells strong. Beware that Ammonia used in a closed room can cause eye problems. ALWAYS use in a WELL VENTILATED area and then move to a warm location to cure.
I used to use damp sand to set molds in but found for containers and roadrailers, portals, brick walls,that I couldn't get them to stay flat and straight. If you were duplicating such things as old tire piles, tree stumps,tie stacks,loads for gondolas etc or vertical objects that didn't need to be straight or small figurines then I will still use damp sand generaly in a old cake pan or pot, something that is deep enough and I can get my size 12 mitts into to work.
I just went to the local craft store(Micheals here in Ottawa) and picked up a different type of latex. It is a lot heavier than WS. It's made in the states in CA so will try it on a couple of pieces and let you know how it goes.
Jack
Post: 47 (A beginner) -:)
