4 FIELDIANA: TECHNIQUE, NO. 8 



Cellulose nitrate (celluloid) dissolved in butyl acetate is the ma- 

 terial used in making the casts. The mixture should have the con- 

 sistency of thick cream. Artists' oil color is added, gradually and 

 sparingly, to obtain the desired color, 



A separator coating of water-soluble material is applied to the 

 mold to prevent the casting material from adhering to it. Ordinary 



LAYOUT FOR MOLDS. 



mucilage can be used for this purpose, but the gum arabic solution 

 given below is more satisfactory. Immediately before applying the 

 separator, a new plastic or metal mold should be cleaned with a 

 detergent to remove all traces of oil and thus insure a uniform 

 coating on all parts of the mold. This uniform coating is essential 

 for a successful cast. 



FORMULA FOR SEPARATOR 

 (All quantities by volume) 



15 parts of gum arabic, powdered. 

 15 parts of water. 



10 parts of alcohol (grain, denatured, or wood). 

 3 parts of molasses. 



Combine the water, alcohol, and molasses, then add the gum arabic, making 

 a thorough mixture and being especially careful that there are no lumps contain- 

 ing dry gum arabic. If possible, let the mixture stand for 24 hours or more before 

 using it. For use, thin it down to the consistency of light varnish with a mixture 

 of 3 parts of water to 2 parts of alcohol and strain if necessary to remove lumps 



