Dog Paw Casting Molds: Fill Weights & Firing Schedules for Flat and Free-Standing Paws
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I created the free-standing paw after losing my two pups, wanting a memorial piece with real depth, and the paws have become some of my favourite pieces to cast. There are two molds: the flat Dog Paw and the deeper free-standing Dog Paw. Here's how to get great results from each.
ZYP or kiln wash?
I recommend ZYP for both paw molds. It gives a cleaner finish and easier release. If you choose kiln wash, the inside will have much more texture, and on the deep free-standing paw the risk of sticking is much greater.
Flat Dog Paw
Prep
Start with three to four thin coats of ZYP and touch up as necessary. A good scrub of the glass after firing should leave a nice matte finish. Using kiln wash instead? Coat it well with three to four coats, or pour it into the mold and dump it out.
How much glass
- Weight: 85–100 g
- For a nice flow, stack glass on edge and exceed the height of the mold.
Firing schedule (COE 96)
| Segment | Rate (°F/hr) | Temperature (°F) | Hold (min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 400 | 1000 | 10 |
| 2 | 900 | 1460 | 30 |
| 3 | AFAP | 960 | 60 |
| 4 | 200 | 800 | 10 |
| 5 | 300 | 300 | Off |
Free-Standing Dog Paw
This mold is deep with lovely detail, which is exactly why ZYP matters here.
How much glass
- Weight: 140–150 g
- For a nice flow, stack glass on edge and exceed the height of the mold.
Firing schedule (COE 96)
| Segment | Rate (°F/hr) | Temperature (°F) | Hold (min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 400 | 1000 | 10 |
| 2 | 900 | 1460 | 30–40 |
| 3 | AFAP | 960 | 120 |
| 4 | 200 | 800 | 10 |
| 5 | 300 | 300 | Off |
AFAP = as fast as possible. The longer 120-minute anneal hold is for the thicker casting.
Bullseye / COE 90 users: swap in the appropriate tack or full fuse temperatures for your glass and anneal at 900°F.
Show me what you make!
I would absolutely love to see what you create. Tag me @themichellefrost so I can cheer you on and share your work.
Warmly,
Michelle