Introducing IOD Specimens Mould, this one is all about the beetles! The projects with this one are so fun. You can paint these castings with shimmery metallic greens and blacks for life-like realism. They are gorgeous in shadow boxes trimmed with gold bamboo from the IOD Faux Boi Mould with natural elements from the Fronds Transfer for a botanical backdrop.  
Beetle-inspired decor has a long historical significance and fits a wide range of styles, from the dark allure of gothic and vampy aesthetics to the light-hearted charm of bohemian and eclectic interiors. Whether displayed in shadow boxes or curio cabinets or drawing inspiration from beetle motifs found on wallpapers, upholstery, and decorative objects, these elements can complement various design themes.
Plus, all beetles from the IOD moulds are 100% ethically sourced. Since they’re crafted from clay, resin, or your chosen material, you can enjoy creating with peace of mind, knowing no beetles were harmed in the making.
Handy Tip: When using air-dried clay, you can experience some shrinkage. Watch our Mould 101 video to learn some techniques to address gapping or cracking that might occur in the drying process. If you want to avoid any shrinkage, use resin for your castings. Use with our IOD Air Dry Clay, which was formulated to work with all of our IOD Moulds, or Amazing Casting Resin by Alumilite, which offers a near perfect cosmetic casting.
Size: Silicone Mould Dimensions: One single 6" x 10" mould.
Food safe. The IOD Moulds are made from food safe materials (do not use the same set for food and crafts) and can be used to transform and create baked goods, furniture, soaps, jewelry, and just about anything you can think up in that creative brain of yours.
Different Mediums. IOD Moulds can be used with many different mediums. We will cover the two most common here. Every medium has its own characteristics, challenges, and virtues.
Air dry clay, or paper clay: IOD Air Dry Clay is an air-dry medium, and one of our favorites. Like most paper pulp-based air dry clays, some shrinking, warping, and cracking is inherent. We like these qualities for a distressed, authentically vintage look. Our favorite way to apply moulded pieces is to remove them from the mould while still moist, and adhere to the surface with the appropriate glue so it conforms well. For vertical surfaces, use a piece of low tack tape to hold it in place so it doesn’t slide.
Casting resins: There are some great pourable resins available, like Amazing Casting Resin. These have completely different qualities than the IOD Air Dry Clay. There is no shrinking or warping, and the castings are more consistent. Depending on the project, these qualities can be helpful. If you need to conform them to a curved surface, this can be done if removed from the mould before it’s completely hardened.
On releases: We find that most of the time a release is not necessary and the casting will come out without the use of a release, however, if you are having trouble with the material sticking (more common with clays than resins), a light dusting of simple cornstarch or arrowroot is a great choice.