Can the molds be used more than once?

          Yes. Many times. Really they don’t do any work.

          They hold the material to be molded and then it pops out.

Do you melt the butter first, then pour it in?

          No. You are thinking about almost anything else that works that way.

          With butter you press it, room temperature into the mold then freeze it.

Do you have to spray the mold with a release like cooking spray?

          No. Most things we have molded have released on their own.

          Except for Jello. The Jello book recommends spraying with cooking spray.

How much heat can ButterCups stand?

          They will collapse at the temperature of boiling water.

          After the boiling settles down for only a few seconds the mold will work just fine.

          Remember boiling stuff requires careful handling.

Would you use the same mold for food AND crafts?

          No. Please buy more molds.

          Remember, these molds are for fun. Try things. Experiment. 

          Then write to us with your results.

Can you put concrete in the little molds?

          Yes, for the world’s smallest patio stones.

          Or a border around a small pond, or a backsplash in the bathroom.

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Tell me about concrete mix.

          Concrete is a blend of sand and cement.

          You can buy it already mixed dry in the same bag.

          Instructions will tell how to and how much water to add to get a thick mix.

          We do our mixing in a plastic bag when we want to make just one. 

          It saves a lot of mess.

Why do you vibrate the mold when using concrete?

          Vibrate means to shake, swirl, and bang the mold with its contents of wet concrete 

          on the table for at least a minute to make sure that all of the decorative impression

          is filled and that there are no bubbles on the surface. It also helps to achieve a smooth           surface when the cement goes to the ‘bottom’ and the sand is suspended.

Can you walk on the stepping stones?

          All stones placed on the ground must be put in a bed of sand.

          A stone or and uneven base will surely result in breakage.

Should you re-enforce the stepping stone with wire or mesh?

          If it would give you confidence in your job, go ahead.

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How soon can I 'pop out' a concrete mold?

          Wait at least two full days.

          By the way, leave the water that rises on the surface, to go back into the concrete.

          It is not drying out, is hardening and it needs that water to do its task.

          It will still take 30 days to achieve its strength. Wait before putting them in the ground.

Can I add colour to the concrete?

          Yes. You can buy small packets of color at the hardware / umber store 

          or at hobby/craft stores.

          Here is another idea. Instead of plain water to mix the concrete, why not mix,

          half and half with a favourite color of Latex paint.

          It must be latex or be described as water soluble.

What kind of paint do you uses for the decorative design?

          These paints are called tole paints, patio paints, or acrylic paints, 

          also available at the above mentioned stores. An overall sealer might be wise.

Can the stepping stones stay out all winter?

          Yes, those planted in the ground are a permanent installation.

          Those that have been painted or done with stained glass represent a dedicated job on

          your part and you should protect them.

How do I clean the molds after use?

          In the case of butter, chocolate, soap, etc.,wash with warm sudsy water.

          No dishwashers please.

          In the case of concrete, rinse with about a quarter cup of vinegar.

          They come back like new.

I have more questions, now what?

          Please call or e-mail and we’ll do our best to help

          or to send more molds because you are enjoying the activity so much.

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