Latex is a milk-white liquid from tropical rubber trees. It is processed to make items such as rubber gloves, balloons and rubber toys. The first rubber toys appeared in the early 1800s, when natural latex was used for balls and dolls' heads. You can make a simple latex ball by first acquiring a two-part mold. Stir and pour a latex rubber compound into the mold, cast a ball shape by putting the two sections together, and wait for it to dry.
Things You'll Need:
- 2-Part Ball Mold
- Mold Release
- Stirring Stick
- Paintbrush
- Mixing Bowl
- Liquid Latex Casting Compound
Brush mold release on your two-part ball mold. This will allow for easy release of the ball once the latex has set.
Pour the amount of liquid latex casting compound you need into a medium-size mixing bowl. Stir with a wooden stirring stick, like the kind you get at a paint store.
Pour the stirred latex into your two-part ball mold. You can find this type of mold at stores that sell soap-making supplies.
Wait 24 hours for the latex to dry completely. Open and release the mold gently, and pull out the latex ball.
Tip
Latex can be molded into many shapes. You can make your own mold out of plaster or clay, and then pour in the latex molding compound.
Different types of latex molding compound exist. Read your manufacturer's instructions to be sure about setting time and other directions.
Warnings:
- Without a releasing agent, some mold may stick to the latex compound. Work with latex in a well-ventilated room; avoid breathing the fumes.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Charong Chow has been writing professionally since 1995. Her work has appeared in magazines such as "Zing" and "Ocean Drive." Chow graduated from the University of Miami with a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy. She also received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the California Institute of the Arts.
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