Learn the core principles of mould making and casting in a friendly, rural studio setting.
Over three days you will create a one‑piece rubber mould with a plaster case, make a small alginate(seaweed rubber) body cast, and cast your work in plaster and Jesmonite.
No experience needed; one‑to‑one guidance throughout.

You’ll also be introduced to the wider principles of mould‑making processes such as waste moulding, body casting, two‑piece moulds, poured silicone, and casting in wax, paper, and resin.

What You Will Learn (Hands‑On)
Across three days you will make and complete:
a one‑piece Smooth‑On silicone mould
a plaster case for your mould
a plaster cast from your mould
a small alginate body cast
a Jesmonite cast from your alginate mould

You will learn to:
mix plaster, Jesmonite, and silicone rubber
prepare an object for moulding
build a simple plaster casing
pour and lay up silicone
demould safely and cleanly
cast your mould in plaster and Jesmonite
understand material behaviour, timing, and safe studio practice

What You Will Explore (Discussion)
You’ll gain an understanding of:
‍ ‍waste moulding
body casting methods
two‑piece moulds
poured silicone moulds
wax casting
paper casting
resin and bio-resin casting.

Gaining an understanding of which moulding and casting methods best suit which projects.
These are explored through discussion and some demonstrations.

Pre‑Course Zoom/Teams Call
Each participant is welcome to a short Zoom or Teams conversation before the course to talk through what you’d like to learn, the object you’d like to cast, and any questions you may have. This helps us understand your aims and ensures you get the most out of the three‑day structure.

Course Fee: £480 (materials not included)
Materials: £50-60 depending on size of cast
15% discount is available for students and members of the Royal Society of Sculptors.
(For course fees not material fees)
please email us to apply your discount.

A 20% deposit secures your place.
Refund and cancellation details are provided in the downloadable course PDF.

Group Size
4–6 participants — ensuring one‑to‑one guidance.

Practical Information
Tea, coffee, and biscuits provided. Please bring a packed lunch — no shops nearby.
Wear comfortable clothing that can get messy; aprons and gloves provided.
Please advise us of any allergies.

Location.
Courses are held at Welham studios, Charlton Mackrell, Somerton, Somerset TA11 7AJ

Local accommodation recommendations available on request.
Camping is available at Welham Studios (£10 a night) — please enquire when booking.

A Warm Invitation
Join us for three days in this peaceful rural location. Enjoy beginning or developing your mould‑making and casting skills in a supportive studio environment. You’re welcome to bring questions and ideas, and to talk through projects you’d like to explore. No experience is necessary. We look forward to welcoming you to Welham Studios.

Download Full Course Details (PDF)