Introducing SIX new Sprig/Texture Molds!

For some projects/ideas for using our slab molds, please visit our Lesson Plan pages (#20, #21, and #29).

Brent Slab Rollers create a perfect clay slab every time, click here to learn more!


AMACO® Plaster Textured and Sprig Molds

AMACO® Plaster Texture and Sprig molds facilitate the creation of textured, embossed and decorative clay surfaces. Just press moist clay onto the porous plaster molds then lift and either hand-build or add the textured clay to already thrown pots. Textured designs can enhance artwork, both in terms of adding imagery as well as affecting the glaze and underglaze colors. AMACO® Plaster Molds may be used with the following water-based clays for easy release: Ceramic/Firing Clays, Air-Dry Clays and Self-Hardening Clays. Since the plaster naturally absorbs water and releases the clay, NO release agent should be used.

Tips: After prolonged use, clay may not release easily from the mold. At that time mold should be allowed to air dry. Do not use any sharp tools on the plaster as they will scratch its surface

AMACO® Plaster Textured Slab Molds (TM) and Multi-Cultural Textured Slab Molds, (MCTM)

AMACO® Textured Slab Molds may be used to decorate slabs before hand-building or to apply textured elements to works in progress in the same fashion as Sprig Molds (see Sprig Molds).

Basic instructions for working with Slab Texture Molds
(for more details see Lesson Plans 20, 21 and 29):

Roll out 1/4" - 3/8" thick slab of clay and smooth surface to remove canvas texture using a metal or rubber rib. Cut out desired size and shape of clay for specific project (must be smaller than Texture Mold). Decide which part of the mold you would like to use, then place the moist clay slab (smooth face down) gently onto the textured slab mold. Firmly press clay onto textured slab using the palm of your hand or a sandbag (this is recommended as it will help to impress all of the texture and keep the clay from moving when rolled). Now use a pony roller or rolling pin to firmly roll the clay onto the texture. Using the small end of the roller bevels the narrow ends at about a 45 degree angle so that the seams when hand-building will overlap easier. Carefully lift the clay slab off the textured slab mold and proceed with hand-building as usual.

AMACO® Plaster Sprig Molds

Sprig Molds are used to easily add decorative elements and embellishments to moist clay projects. Clay used should be the same type and moisture consistency as the work-in-progress to ensure good adhesion and avoid shrinkage cracks.

Basic instructions for working with Sprig Molds and for using Slab Texture Molds as Sprig Molds:

Roll out a clay slab or create a patty or coil just slightly larger than the desired Sprig Mold/design. Thickness should be approximately ¼" to ½" thick, depending on depth of chosen sprig mold. Make sure clay surface is smooth before pressing it into the design (clay wrinkles or canvas texture may be smoothed out using a rib or fettling knife). Lift the textured clay and score and slip before pressing it carefully where desired. As it sets up, use a damp paint brush or sponge to wipe away excess slip and smooth attachment seam.