Creating a mold from a clay model involves several detailed steps to ensure the final metal sculpture accurately replicates the artist's vision. Here's a structured breakdown of the process:

1. Constructing the Base:

   • Cutting the Basic Form: Begin by cutting the basic silhouette of the model from foam core, a sturdy yet workable material that acts as a guide for the shape and proportions.

   • Attaching to a Platform: Securely attach the foam core cut-out to a thin wooden platform, such as a piece of plywood, to provide stability and ease of handling.

2. Building the Clay Model:

   • Applying Modeling Clay: Directly apply and sculpt Plasticine or modeling clay onto the foam core silhouette. The foam provides a structural foundation, ensuring the model maintains its intended shape.

   • Sculpting Details: Carefully build up the clay, adding finer details and textures to bring the model to life. The foam core and wooden base ensure that the model can be easily manipulated and transported during this process.

3. Creating the Mold:

   • Preparing the Flask: Once the clay model is complete, place it inside a high-sided frame called a flask. This frame will contain the sand and resin mixture used to form the mold.

   • Packing with Sand: Fill the flask with a sand and resin mixture, packing it tightly around the clay model. This mixture will harden to capture the intricate details of the model.

   • Removing the Clay Model: After the sand has set, carefully remove the clay model from the flask, leaving behind a detailed hollow imprint in the sand. Ensure no remnants of Plasticine are left in the sand mold.​