Top 5 Common Problems with Hand Casting Kits and How to Fix Them
Creating a hand cast can be a fun and rewarding experience, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are the five most common issues with hand casting kits and how you can prevent or fix them.
Problem 1: Moulding Powder Mixture Sets Too Quickly
Sometimes the moulding powder mixture sets before you can get your hands into the bucket, which can be frustrating.
How to Prevent It:
✅ Temperature Matters – Moulding powder mixture sets faster in warm conditions. Use cold, refrigerated, filtered water to slow down the setting time and give yourself more working time. However, using cold water means you’ll need to hold still for longer, so get into a comfortable position beforehand. Avoid casting on particularly hot days.
✅ Use an Electric Mixer – Mixing by hand with a spoon or whisk isn’t fast enough.
✅ Get Help – Have someone else pour the moulding powder while you mix to save time.
✅ Add Gradually – Add half a bag of moulding powder at a time. Mix slowly until it's absorbed, then switch to high speed for a smooth finish.
How to Fix It:
If you’ve followed all the tips but the mixture still sets too quickly, contact our support team for more moulding powder to try again.
Problem 2: Bubbles on the Skin Surface
Air bubbles can create imperfections on the cast surface, making it look rough.
How to Prevent It:
✅ Mix Thoroughly – Ensure the moulding powder mixture is mixed smoothly and thoroughly. Using cold, refrigerated, filtered water allows more time for proper mixing.
How to Fix It:
✅ Use the wooden stick provided in the kit or a craft knife to carefully scrape off small bubbles.
✅ For larger bubbles, scrape them off gradually, layer by layer, until the surface is smooth.
Problem 3: Lost Fingertips
Air pockets in the mould can prevent the liquid casting powder from filling the fingertips, leaving them incomplete.
How to Prevent It:
✅ Hand Position – Ensure your fingertips are touching other parts of the hand when forming the shape. Floating fingertips are harder to fill.
✅ Casting Powder Pouring Technique – Start by filling the mould at a 45-degree angle, allowing the liquid to coat the fingertips first. Tap the mould, let the liquid settle, and then fill it completely.
How to Fix It:
✅ Keep some extra casting powder for repairs. Mix it with water and use it to fill in missing areas.
Problem 4: Holes or Channels on the Skin Surface
Tiny holes or channels can appear due to trapped air or separation of water from the casting powder.
How to Prevent It:
✅ Mix Thoroughly – Mix the industrial-grade high-strength casting powder for about five minutes until smooth.
✅ Tap the Bucket – Continuously tap the bucket while pouring to release air bubbles. Keep tapping until the liquid starts to thicken.
How to Fix It:
✅ Save some casting powder for repairs. Mix it with water and carefully fill in any holes or channels.
Problem 5: Black Dots on the Surface
Black dots may appear a few days after casting due to moisture issues.
How to Prevent It:
✅ Let the cast dry in a well-ventilated area, ideally in sunlight, to allow air circulation.
How to Fix It:
✅ Wash the cast with clean water and let it dry in sunlight for a few days.
Need More Help?
Following these tips should help you avoid or resolve common casting problems. If you need further assistance, contact our customer care team at 📞 +91-79905 28572—we’re happy to help!