minions by the handful

[Conquistador]

I am in need of guidance on how to cast in resin some sculpts I am working to produce for personal use.

These figures would be essentially "Disposable Armed Targets in not so large numbers" that provide the low level (but not to be ignored) threat to the players in a game.  Not hugely detailed figures so I am working on the assumption that learning about  resin casting might be easier than learning to cast metal figures.

Gracias,

Glenn

[snitcythedog]

Casting in resin or metal is only a matter of cost.  Getting setup for metal casting will run about $100 without a heat source.  Resin is roughly $20-60.  Micromark in the states has high temperature silicone that can be used to make a two part mold for metal.  They also have ingots and other casting supplies.  They also have resin and other silicones that can be used to make the two part molds.  Google miniature mold making and you should get some good hits.  Most public libraries have books that will cover the basics.  I am sure that you will get a bunch more advise here.  Sorry that I am not including links but I am posting on the go.   Hope that helps.
Snitchy sends.

[jthomlin]

Everything has it's pro's and cons, I prefer resin because I can get a better quality cast, no risk of burns and don't have to explain to management why I'm melting lead on the stove ... 

There are plenty of ways of doing what you outline, try these for starters:

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=2+part+mold+making
http://www.smooth-on.com/Model-Making/c1290/index.html

It's worth while spending a bit of time researching as there are so many different materials and methods, but for what you want my suggestions would be:

A suitable silicone:
http://www.smooth-on.com/Silicone-Rubber-an/c2_1113_1136/index.html

And resin:
http://www.smooth-on.com/Urethane-Plastic-a/c5_1120_1209/index.html

Note: All this stuff has a shelf life, so don't get it until you are ready to use it. The silicone is usually something like 12 months and the resin 3 months. (Yes it's cheaper by the gallon, but not if you have to throw 80% of it away ...  )