Patent ID: 7153456
Filing Date: 2006-12-26
Classification: B28B,B29C

Abstract:
1. A method of making a mold for making ceramic articles that have an exterior surface that is an impression of the inside surface of a gourd, said method comprising the steps of: (a) selecting a dried hard-shell gourd that is substantially hollow with an inside surface that is porous and textured with veins; (b) cutting the gourd open to provide access to the inside of the gourd; (c) substantially completely removing seeds, pulp, and filament material from the inside of the gourd in a manner that leaves the porous and textured inside surface and internal shape of the gourd undamaged; (d) casting the inside of the gourd with a base casting material that conforms to the internal shape and inside surface texture of the gourd; (e) allowing the base casting material to dry inside the gourd for a predetermined length of time to form a model having an exterior surface that is an impression of the inside surface of the gourd; (f) removing the model from the gourd without damaging the model; and (g) using the model to make a mold for making ceramic articles.