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We recently launched a new podcast called, "The Science of Art". We started this podcast with the desire to share information about the science behind how certain materials work to create different types of art. You can find this podcast on all the usual podcast platforms, and we have the audio on our YouTube channel as well. We look forward to sharing more topics with you in the future and if there is anything you'd like to learn more about, please share it with us in the comments. Our first episode was all about silicone rubbers and how they work, so we are sharing the transcript with you here in case you'd prefer to read about this topic. Read on about the science of silicone rubbers!

We were commissioned by a local company to make a foam prop tire and here is a video breakdown of how we did it!

Links to products we used are below:

Smooth-On EZ Brush Vac Bag Silicone

USG FGR 95 Plaster

Continuous Strand Fiberglass Mat

Wondering what to get the artist in your life? Check out our holiday gift guide below! We have suggestions for essential items to equip an artist studio, as well as materials for someone who may be wanting to try a certain art medium but isn't sure where to start.

ACCESSORIES FOR AN ARTIST STUDIO

These are items we can't live without in our studio. Whether your gift recipient is an established artist or just getting started, we guarantee these items will help make their lives easier and their processes more smooth!

Need a solvent for project cleanup but not sure which one to use? Read on! Screen shot or save our comparison chart for future use too.

PLEASE NOTE: All solvents listed here are flammable and/or combustible so please use caution and always refer to SDS for complete information before use.

ACETONE

- Still the best solvent for cleaning up polyesters, epoxies and polyurethanes.
- A great de-greaser
- NOT to be used for cleaning up plastics or silicones, as acetone will often partially dissolve them.
- Will also dissolve styrofoam!
Note: If you are sculpting with styrofoam and don’t want to use a cutting tool, you can use acetone to shape the foam (do this cautiously as the acetone reacts very fast with styrofoam!)

Colder weather brings its challenges to resin work. Here are some tips for getting your resin to cure better in the cold!

Tip #1: Heat Your Resin - all resins flow and mix better when they are a little warmed up. Warm your resin before mixing by placing the bottles in a heated room, in a hot water bath, or on top of a warm table.