I love using molds for baking, especially when it comes to making cookies and cakes. While there are plenty of options on the market, I find that going for something 100% personalized is so much better. With just a few materials, time, and work, you can make your own at home, too.
Hey, bakers! My name is Michelle and I love baking. I have been using homemade silicone molds for years. I use them to surprise my kids or give my clients exactly what they’re looking for. To be blunt, I really just love custom goodies!
If you’re thinking about making your own silicone mold for baking, know that it can be as simple or complex as you make it. You can use premade items to mold or create your own using clay. Either way, the process is a bit time-consuming but entirely worth it in the end.
Let’s create some silicone molds for baking.
How to Make Silicone Molds for Baking
Making your own silicone molds, especially for the first time, can seem a bit overwhelming. But it’s really quite simple. With the right materials and a little bit of effort and time, you can create your very own molds for baking.
Gather Materials
If this is your first time making a silicone mold for baking, I recommend opting for a food-grade silicone mold kit. These kits come with everything you need to be successful. Whichever solution you use, double and triple-check that the silicone is food grade.
You will also need a frame or container to hold your mold and silicone solution. You can purchase disposable containers, or use containers you already have at home. You can also create your own mold container using cardboard or wood and a hot glue gun.
The goal is to have a sealed container that won’t allow spills. Even the smallest cracks can lead to the silicone solution seeping out, ruining your mold.
Last but not least, gather the model that you’re planning to mold. This could be pretty much anything as long as it’s solid.
How to Make Your Own Models
You can also make your own models. This will take much more time, effort, and materials on your behalf. However, you have the added benefit of having something entirely unique. To make your own models for molding, do the following:
- Find your desired stencil online. It can be literally anything. Just make it something you’re comfortably stenciling onto the clay.
- Stencil the design onto the sulfur-free clay using a razor knife. Be very careful doing this. Not only can you risk messing up the design, but you can also cut your fingers or hand.
- Remove any excess clay. It’s simply not necessary for your customized molds!
- Sculpt details. Look over your clay model and make sure that it has the desired details.
Mix Solution
Every solution is going to be different, so it is imperative to check the instructions. Some are 1:1 solutions while others are not. The silicone solution I use is a 1:1 mix, so I will mix the two parts until they are thoroughly combined.
The solution I use is also low viscosity, so it’s easier to mix. I have heard that other options have an incredibly high viscosity and will call for mixing with much more elbow grease. If this is the case, remember that it’s important to mix thoroughly – even though it might be challenging.
Pour the Solution and Wait
Position your model (homemade or store-bought) into the container and pour the silicone solution over it. Make sure that the model is covered entirely with a little extra wiggle room. Otherwise, the mold will not take proper shape.
Let the solution set. The length of time required for the solution to set will change depending on the type of solution you’re using. For example, the solution I use requires at least four hours for curing. I tend to wait a few extra hours – just to be on the safe side.
Remove the Mold and Clean
After the silicone solution has properly cured, the model should pop out of the mold with no problem. From there, you will want to wash the mold. Washing the mold is easy. Use some dish soap and cold water and scrub it thoroughly.
Enjoy Your New Mold!
Whether you create large, homemade molds or something cute and small, you can now enjoy your mold to the fullest. Pour your batter inside, bake, and enjoy entirely customized results that you won’t find elsewhere.
If you’re making cookies, you will want to sprinkle a little sugar on the molds and push cookie dough to fit the mold. Then, remove the shaped cookie dough and place it on a cookie sheet to bake. You can make as many as your dough allows for.
FAQs
As you can see, making your own silicone molds for baking is a cinch. All you need is a silicone solution kit to mix the necessary ingredients, a model, and a container. If you still have some questions about how to make silicone molds for baking, keep reading.
Can you make a silicone mold at home?
As surprising as it may be, yes! Following the simple steps above, you can create molded masterpieces right at home. The complexity will depend on you and what you are capable and willing of doing. Homemade models are not required, although they are really cool!
What material is used to make silicone molds?
Silicone rubber is used to make silicone molds for baking. However, not all silicone rubber is made the same. Only some are food-grade. You must use food-grade silicone when it comes to making molds for baking. Otherwise, they will not be safe for consumption.
What food can you make in silicone molds?
Your molds can be used for all types of great ideas. Cookies, cakes, cheesecakes, candies, and even ice cubes can all be made using silicone molds. Of course, it all depends on the type of mold you’re making. Some might be more suitable for certain projects than others.
Do you need to grease silicone molds?
Technically, no, you don’t need to grease silicone molds. However, I always use a little cooking spray to be on the safe side.
Final Words
Making your own silicone molds opens up a new realm of baking possibilities, and it’s not too challenging – especially if you use premade models. With the right mixing kit, a container, and a model, you can create some amazing silicone molds for baking at home.
Have you ever made your own silicone molds for baking?
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