(no subject)

[dave at mitton.com]

> Date: Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:10:17 +0100
> From: "Rod Smallwood" <RodSmallwood at mail.ediconsulting.co.uk>
> Subject: RE: DEC switch handles
> 
> Just a thought .. 
> Wouldn't the model making fraternity have this kind of problem all 
the time.?
> There must be a way to make a mould using an existing part as the 
template.  
> 
> Rod

Ask the right question, and the neurons awake from lurking and 
respond....

Yes, the keyword you want is "resin casting".
Google "DIY resin casting" got me a bunch of good hits.

Typically small parts molds (either a actual or built prototype) can 
be made using RTV rubber
and cast using an urethane resin.   Search using some of those terms 
and you should
be able to find some good instructions.

Here is a commercial  kit, the seller is not the lowest cost around, 
but reliable.
http://www.micro-mark.com/   Look at product # 82698

There is a reprint article from Model Railroader on fabricating a 
duplicate of an old out-of-manufacture Lionel bridge grider.  http:
//www.micromark.com/html_pages/instructions/82708mrrresinart.pdf

Dave. (an MIT TMRCie)