How to Troubleshoot a Ceramic Mold Casting

One of the most exciting parts of casting a ceramic mold is opening the greenware to see the mold for the first time. Sometimes the product isn't what you had hoped for or expected for. At this time the ceramic artist must also be a forensic scientist and examine the ceramic mold and greenware for problem areas.

1. Examine the greenware casting and make note of any and all
   defects in the casting.


2. Open the ceramic mold that was used in to cast the greenware
   and check for defects. Check for defects that match those found in
   the greenware casting. Examine the ceramic mold for cracks and/or
   chips to determine if the mold is damaged.


3. Check for the debris or old slip left in the mold that may
   have left a mark or indentation in the green ware. The ceramic mold
   may have been dirty or damaged when the slip was poured.


4. Examine any other pieces of greenware that were poured in
   other molds at the same time to see if those pieces have flaws as
   well. You will then be able to determine if it is the mold that has
   a damage or defect.


5. Review the way the mold was opened to see if damage was
   caused at that time. The technique used to remove the greenware from
   the mold may have caused the damage, rather than it occurring during
   the molding process.


6. Decide whether the ceramic mold can be repaired or salvaged
   if it is damaged.


7. Review slip pouring techniques and how to release it from
   greenware. Ceramic molds needs to be released properly to avoid
   damaging the greenware.