Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Paint Techniques • Armature Building • Blood Effects

Mold Release

Term from Prop Making industry explained for recruiters

Mold Release is a crucial material used in prop making and special effects work. It's like a special non-stick spray or agent that helps remove cast items from molds cleanly, similar to how cooking spray helps remove food from baking pans. When prop makers create items like costume pieces, props, or special effects components, they first make a mold, then use mold release before pouring in materials like resin, silicone, or foam. This prevents the cast item from sticking to the mold and getting damaged during removal. The term might appear in job descriptions as "mold release agent," "release agent," or "mold release compound."

Examples in Resumes

Applied Mold Release agents for complex creature prop casting projects

Managed inventory of Mold Release Compounds and other casting supplies

Trained junior artists in proper Release Agent application techniques

Typical job title: "Prop Makers"

Also try searching for:

Special Effects Artist Prop Maker Mold Maker Casting Technician FX Artist Model Maker Fabrication Artist

Where to Find Prop Makers

Online Communities

Professional Networks

Industry Resources

• Stan Winston School
• Smooth-On Learning Center

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine which type of mold release to use for different casting materials?

Expected Answer: A senior prop maker should explain how different materials (silicone, resin, foam) require specific release agents, mention safety considerations, and discuss how material compatibility affects the final product quality.

Q: Describe a challenging mold project you've managed and how you solved any issues.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving abilities, team management, and deep understanding of various molding techniques and materials, including when things go wrong and how to fix them.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What safety procedures do you follow when working with mold release agents?

Expected Answer: Should discuss proper ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), material storage, and workplace safety protocols.

Q: How do you ensure even coverage of mold release in complex mold shapes?

Expected Answer: Should explain techniques for applying release agents to detailed or intricate molds, including spray patterns, brush techniques, and ensuring all surfaces are properly covered.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic purpose of mold release?

Expected Answer: Should explain that mold release prevents casting materials from sticking to molds and allows for clean removal of cast pieces.

Q: What are the common types of mold release you've worked with?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name basic types like spray releases, wax-based releases, and petroleum-based releases, and their basic applications.