Custom Silicone Mold Prototype to Production Process

A prototype is not just a smaller order.

Its purpose is to prove the highest-risk requirements before the approved design is repeated in production.

A typical custom silicone mold development path is:

RFQ → DFM → CAD/modeling if needed → master/tool development → prototype → real-use validation → revision approval → production → QC/packing → reorder record

Send:

• what you need to receive
• design/sample
• application
• dimensions/CTQs
• quantity
• documents
• target date

Review:

• process route
• undercuts
• parting
• support
• cavity layout
• material
• fit
• critical risks

If production-ready CAD does not exist, confirm design scope.

Simple 3D modeling is typically around USD 50 when straightforward.

Approve the final CAD/render before master/tool production where new geometry is created.

Possible routes:

• CNC master
• additive master
• physical sample/master
• RTV mold tooling
• HCR/HTV tooling
• LSR tooling

Process follows the deliverable.

For a straightforward custom mold, 3D design + prototype is typically about 3–5 days after required information is approved.

Complex projects require project-specific timing.

Depending on project:

• dimensions
• fit
• weight/volume
• logo/detail
• release
• surface
• hardness
• support
• assembly
• sealing/function

Use:

• real gummy formula
• real chocolate
• real resin
• plaster
• wax
• baking/freezing
• mating physical sample

where practical.

Production approval should identify:

• approved revision
• sample/reference
• critical criteria
• approved changes

Do not treat “sample delivered” as automatic approval.

Applicable RTV mold production can start from 20 molds per approved design.

Small production may take about 2–3 days after approval when the project/process allows.

HCR/HTV and LSR schedules are quoted separately.

Confirm:

• revision
• quantity
• visual condition
• CTQs
• packing
• documents

Archive:

• approved revision
• master/tool reference
• material
• sample
• packaging/SKU

Can I make one functional mold and test it before ordering 20?

Yes. This is the preferred path for a new RTV design.

Can you test plaster/resin before shipping the prototype?

Yes, when test casting is included in the agreed scope.

Can production start immediately after I receive the sample?

Only after the buyer approves the relevant revision/criteria.

Is prototype 3–7 days guaranteed?

No. Use 3–5 days as a straightforward baseline only when the information/process allows.

Does every project use a resin master?

No.