I'm new to casting, where do I start? We can help you make your ideas a reality. All we need is a prototype, what metal you'd like the pieces made from and how many you'd like. You can create the prototype from any material you feel comfortable working with. Most people use wax or metal but we've made molds from all types of plastic, PMC, ceramics, fimo clay, wood, bone etc.
Should I wait until I have numerous prototypes before I send them to you? Not unless you want to receive them all at the same time. We schedule orders as they come in. First ones in are the first out.
How large of a piece can you make? We have the capacity to manufacture small sculpture up to @ 7" tall.
Is there a minimum? Yes. We have a minimum of 25 pieces of a single design. However gold or very large pieces can be produced in smaller quantities.
What type of molds can you make? Most often we use Castaldo vulcanized rubber. We also make molds in vulcanized silicone rubber as well as RTV. RTV is a room temperature curing rubber that is well suited for delicate prototypes that can't stand up to the heat and pressure of vulcanization.
Can you work with my molds? Yes. As long as they are in good shape we're happy to use any existing molds you might have.
Will the finished product shrink compared to the prototype? Yes. Shrinkage is a normal part of the process. Different types of mold rubber will shrink to varying amounts. Shrinkage also occurs to a slight degree in the wax as well as when the metal cools. We're also removing metal from the piece as it is being finished. Normal shrinkage is @ 5% but can vary depending on the design of the piece as well as the preceding variables.
Can I supply my own waxes? Sure, but we'll only cast them. We don't finish pieces cast from outside waxes.
What metals do you work in? We work in 14K yellow gold, 18K yellow gold, Standard sterling silver, Non-ox sterling silver, Brass, Silicon bronze and Lead free pewter.
Can I supply my own metal? Sorry, but no.
How do you cast? The metal is melted electrically and cast in a large capacity vacuum assisted system.
What if I only want my pieces cast so I can finish them myself? No problem. We can ship your pieces at any stage during the production process.
Can you attach findings to my pieces? Yes. We use a commercial fusion welder to weld earring posts, tie tack pins and 3 piece pin backs to your pieces. We also solder jumprings as well as findings on gold items.
What finishes are available? Our standard final finish is a steel shot burnish. These pieces are bright and shiny. We also have a satin or matte finish available. Your pieces can be oxidized or left natural. The oxidation will leave black in the recessed areas of the piece which highlights the detail. Any combination of these options is included in the basic price.
How long does it take? Production time can vary with the time of year as well as the size of your order. Production is usually 2-3 weeks for pieces with existing molds and 3-4 on pieces that need molding.
How do I pay for my order? We accept Visa and Mastercard or we're happy to ship COD. Established companies are welcome to submit credit applications.
What if I don't like the quality? We stand behind our work. Return any defective product and at your request we'll either replace the pieces, credit your account or send you a check.
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