TLDR Review: "Dragon Skin 30 Silicone Rubber"
Pros
- •Consistently reliable and effective based on years of use, with many users highly recommending it for its quality and performance.
- •Accurate and consistent coloring, which is a boon for projects requiring precision.
- •Firm yet flexible after curing, with a Shore 30A hardness similar to a pencil eraser, making it a versatile material for a variety of molding needs.
- •Easy 1:1 measuring ratio simplifies mixing and application, accessible even to beginners following instructions or tutorials.
- •Ideal for detailed castings that require shape retention without drooping, such as hands or complex molds.
- •Longer shelf life issues are managed by proper storage, for example keeping leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge to extend usability a few days.
- •Takes longer to cure than some expect, but the setup and curing times align well if instructions are followed carefully.
- •Performs well across various specialized uses including makeup effects, coating, mold making, and toy casting.
- •Considered one of the best firm platinum cure silicones available, favored over similar alternatives for strength and durability.
- •Degassing (removing bubbles) is advised for a smooth finish, though not always absolutely necessary.
Cons
- •The price is on the higher side compared to other silicone rubber brands, leading some to question whether the premium cost is fully justified.
- •Instructions can be insufficient or vague, requiring users to seek external tutorials or advice to get the best results.
- •Requires patience with degassing and curing times, which some find longer than expected.
- •Silicone becomes more viscous a few weeks after opening, limiting leftover usability especially for trial or smaller quantities.
- •Limited shelf life means it's not ideal for infrequent users to buy in large quantities.
- •Using certain products like Gemini Masterpiece odorless paint thinner can interfere with drying, so knowing the right thinning and storage techniques is essential.
- •Some users suggest Klean Strip Acetone is a better thinning agent for painting or thinning silicone applications.
Bottom Line
If you're looking for a high-quality, reliable silicone rubber that balances firmness with flexibility, Dragon Skin 30 Mold Making Silicone Rubber is a standout choice, especially for detailed molds and specialized craft uses. Just be prepared for a higher price point and commit to learning the curing and degassing process properly for the best results. If you want a less expensive alternative or need a larger quantity with a longer shelf life, you might want to explore other options, but for performance and consistency, this product is tough to beat. For the ease of use and proven reputation, this trial unit is a smart way to test it out before fully committing.
How we researched this
About this review: We pulled together findings from professional reviews and hundreds of user reviews, and cross-referenced them with ShopSavvy's pricing data from thousands of retailers to give you the short version.
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