Old School Casting
A step-by-step guide to cuttlebone casting for beginners
By Tony Deluca
Cuttlebone casting is an ancient casting technique that can create unique textures using the calcified remains of the cuttlefish. It can be used to create both simple and complicated designs, but most jewelers use the technique for the wonderful wood grain texture that’s imparted on the cast piece by the natural growth lines of the cuttlebone. While molds can be carved freehand, in this project I will demonstrate how to use a model to create the mold cavity.