# Making & Pouring Your Molds

Part of the Metalwork Merit Badge Digital Resource Guide: [Introduction & Overview](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/metalwork/guide/index.md)

*5. Founder*

> **5c3.** Make two molds, one using a pattern provided by your counselor and another one you have made yourself that has been approved by your counselor. Position the pouring gate and vents yourself. Do not use copyrighted materials as patterns.

This requirement asks you to prove two things: that you can make a working mold, and that you understand why gate and vent placement matter. The casting process starts with the mold, not the metal.

## Requirement 5c3a

> **5c3a.** Using lead-free pewter, make a casting using a mold provided by your counselor.

A counselor-provided mold gives you a controlled first test. It lets you focus on the pouring process, observing metal flow, and learning what a successful fill looks like.

## Requirement 5c3b

> **5c3b.** Using lead-free pewter, make a casting using the mold that you have made.

Your self-made mold is the real proof of understanding. If the cavity, gate, and vent work together, the metal should fill cleanly and release a recognizable casting. If the result is imperfect, that also teaches you something valuable about the design.

### Why Gates and Vents Matter

The **gate** gives the molten metal a path into the cavity. The **vent** gives trapped air a path out. Without both, the metal may hesitate, cool too soon, or leave gaps and voids.

> **Safety First!**
>
> Molten metal and moisture are a dangerous combination. Follow your counselor's exact shop rules for dry materials, protective gear, pouring position, and safe distance. Never improvise with molten metal.

![A step-by-step sequence showing a prepared two-piece mold, molten lead-free pewter being poured into the gate, and the finished casting after release](https://ik.imagekit.io/doulacoop/tr:w-800/mbu-assets/merit-badges/metalwork/guide/casting-pour-sequence?v=da0677cd)

Founding teaches a different kind of craftsmanship from forging or tinsmithing. Instead of forcing metal into shape directly, you create the conditions that allow the shape to happen.

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- Previous: [Sketching Your Cast Objects](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/metalwork/guide/req5c2/index.md)
- Next: [Blacksmith](https://merit-badge.university/merit-badges/metalwork/guide/req5d/index.md)