Req 5c — Founder
5.
After completing the first four requirements, complete ONE of the following options:
Option 3—Founder
Founding is one of the oldest ways humans learned to shape metal. Instead of hammering a bar or bending a sheet, you create a mold cavity, then let molten metal flow into that space and harden. This option teaches you to think ahead: every gate, vent, and parting line affects the finished result.
What You’ll Complete
- Req 5c1 — Molds & Their Parts: Learn the language of mold parts and common mold types.
- Req 5c2 — Sketching Your Cast Objects: Plan two objects that make sense for casting.
- Req 5c3 — Making & Pouring Your Molds: Build molds, position gates and vents, and cast lead-free pewter objects.
How This Path Builds
Founding rewards careful planning. A bad mold can ruin a careful pour, and a bad gate or vent can trap air or keep the cavity from filling. By the time you pour metal, many of the important choices have already been made.