Working with small batches of plastic

dawson06 · #1 (**permalink**) January 5th, 2007

Since I'm just starting out, I don't have a lot of molds (only 1 of each type), I was trying to figure out a way to do multi-colored pours without cooking and then reheating plastic a bunch of times.

My initial thought, based on searching some of the old posts, was to cook the plastic in the microwave and then divide it up into the pouring cups and then adding color to the plastic in the pots and then putting them on a hotplate or electric griddle to keep them warm.

Now I am thinking I might be better off heating a cup of plastic (with salt and softener) in the microwave and then divide it into smaller Pyrex cups and then add the colorings, glitters and scent to the smaller batches. Then I can just put the plastic back into the microwave to reheat it (this the method earthworm77 recommends in his e-book).

Any input on either of the methods would be greatly appreciated!

Also, if I use the second method, how long will the plastic remain at a "pourable temp" before I have to reheat it?

How many times can I reheat it with the color, glitter, and scent mixed in before I run into problems?

Can I use an electric griddle to maintain the temperature of the plastic in the Pyrex cup after it has been heated in the microwave?

Finally, I just want to say that I really appreciate the knowledge that you guys share with us newbies.

Thanks again,

James

BAssKickin · #2 (**permalink**) January 5th, 2007

I am not real familiar with the microwave pour cup method...I just think it's more mess than using the pots.

I use the pots and it keeps everything clean, warm and easy to pour all color combinations.

Scott

GatorTom · #3 (**permalink**) January 5th, 2007

"Can I use an electric griddle to maintain the temperature of the plastic in the Pyrex cup after it has been heated in the microwave?"

DO NOT place the Pyrex cup on an electric griddle! It will crack at the very least.

charkins · #4 (**permalink**) January 5th, 2007

For small batches of plastic, a 100 ml beaker works great. Get 3 of them and heat all 3 colors at one time, then pour. Plastic won't stay hot long, but with just a few molds it should be ok. You can get the beakers from a scientific supply or if you know a compounding pharmacist, he can order you some pyrex beakers. Make sure they are PYREX.

I wouldn't suggest heating the pyrex or anchor hocking cups on a hot plate or griddle. JMHO. I have heard people say they crack that way. I only use microwave to heat plastic.

The metal pans are a pain in the side. Once you start using the microwave, you will be happy with the results.

millsryno · #5 (**permalink**) January 6th, 2007

Just use three 1 cup pyrex dishes. One for each color. You can cook them all at the exact same time. Then just turn your microwave to low and leave it running while you use one color (the other two are in the microwave). My microwave has a dial and at the low setting it keeps it perfectly warm and does not cook it at all. If I notice, through use, that it needs a little more heat, I just turn up the dial a little.