Delft Clay is a highly refined sand-casting medium invented by Dutch goldsmith Hans Karreman. Finer than ordinary casting sand, it produces sharp, highly detailed castings in gold, silver, copper-based alloys, pewter, and more—with minimal clean-up. Because the process is cold-molding, you can use patterns made from wood, wax, epoxy, plastics, or metal. The clay can be re-used after casting, and, as with all sand casting, it excels on parts without pronounced undercuts.
What’s Included
| 122.942 |
Delft 60 mm Two-Part Aluminum Mold Frame (ring frame) |
| 122.946 |
Delft Clay, 4.4 lb (2 kg) bag |
Why Delft Clay
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Exceptional detail: Fine grain captures crisp lines and textures.
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Less finishing: Clean casts reduce filing and polishing time.
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Reusable medium: Clay can be reclaimed and used again.
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Flexible patterns: Works with wood, wax, epoxy, plastics, and metal masters.
Typical Applications
- Jewelry components in gold, silver, and copper alloys
- Buttons, badges, small hardware, and decorative elements
- Pewter items and low-melt prototypes
Basic Process (Delft Clay Method)
- Fill and compact clay into one half of the aluminum ring frame; strike off excess.
- Press your pattern halfway into the clay; dust the surface with talcum powder.
- Install the second half of the ring, fill with clay, and compact.
- Open the frame and remove the pattern; cut a sprue (pouring channel) and vents.
- Close the mold and pour molten metal.
Notes & Tips
- Best for designs without deep undercuts (as with any sand-casting process).
- Dry, oil-free patterns release best; use talc for clean separation.
- Always follow proper foundry safety: eye/hand protection, ventilation, and appropriate casting temperatures.
