Once the sculpting is finished, preparation begins for the bronzing process. The bronze foundry needs an exact copy of the statue in wax. The wax statue must also be hollow with 1/4" thick walls.(The third thumbnail photo below.) 

     To make a copy we must first make a mold. This is done by covering the clay figure with plaster. (For detailed parts a Polyurethane or silicone rubber is used.)

Applying plaster in sections.

Mold half finished.

Mold complete. Like a 3-D jigsaw puzzle. (The left hand is made with separate mold)