In the world of garage kits (GK), there’s a fascinating process behind how detailed resin statues are made — especially when a figure is copied from an existing one. Whether you’re new to model-making or just curious, this guide will walk you through the step-by-step production process known as mold replication for crafts.
But first, let’s clarify some terms:
Original Statue: A GK figure designed and modeled from scratch, not copied from another statue.
Recast Statue: A figure made by replicating an existing GK product, without access to the original 3D model files.
Both original and recast statues go through the same production process, but their mold sources (prototypes) are different.
🔧 Step 1: Preparing the Mold Frame Create a material inlet: A small channel is made (usually with hot glue) to allow silicone or resin to flow into the mold later.
Build mold walls: Red plastic boards are cut and taped together to form a mold container that holds the silicone.
🧪 Step 2: Pouring the Silicone Mold Mixing silicone + hardener: Silicone is flexible and captures fine surface details. The hardener turns the mixture into a soft rubber mold.
De-bubbling in a vacuum chamber: Air bubbles are removed to ensure clean mold details.
🧱 Step 3: Resin Casting Seal the silicone mold and pour resin: Once sealed, liquid resin is poured into the mold cavity.
Fast reaction + curing: Resin reacts quickly, releasing heat and bubbling briefly, then solidifies in seconds.
✂️ Step 4: Post-processing & Assembly Demold + trim excess: Remove the cast part and cut off the sprue (the leftover flow path).
Drill & pin: Drill holes and insert metal rods (“pins”) to reinforce joints.
Assemble: Fit the parts together — now you have a finished statue.
🤔 What’s the Difference Between Original and Recast? It’s all about the source of the prototype:
Original statues use a master prototype created from a digital 3D model and printed with resin or PU material.
Recast statues are made by buying a finished figure from the original studio, disassembling it into parts, and making molds from that physical object.
Important Note: “Recast” can refer to:
The production process (mold replication in general).
The product itself (a statue replicated from another).
Even though recasts don’t have the 3D file, factories often repair tiny flaws in the mold, so the final quality can still be highly detailed.
Also, the mold’s lifespan is determined by its material:
Resin molds can produce ~50 copies.
PU molds (more expensive) usually last for ~20 uses.
🧵 Final Thoughts Understanding mold replication helps you appreciate the craft behind both original and recast GK statues. Whether you’re a collector or a creator, this technique — balancing artistry with precision — is at the heart of the entire GK community.