Custom Silicone Mold Prototype Reject Checklist

A prototype should be rejected or revised when it fails a requirement that matters to production.

Do not reject a sample because it differs from an unstated preference, and do not approve a sample simply because it “looks close.”

Before testing, define what the prototype must prove.

Check:

• correct CAD/drawing revision
• correct logo/artwork
• correct cavity count
• correct material/process

Measure only the CTQs that matter.

For soft silicone, define the measurement condition.

For fit-critical products, test against the real mating component where possible.

For gummy, chocolate, wax or similar products:

• fill with real material/process
• weigh/measure
• compare to target
• revise before multiplying cavities if needed

Check:

• readability
• depth
• surface finish
• complete fill
• cosmetic result

Reject/revise if:

• part locks
• casting repeatedly breaks
• mold tears/stresses at same location
• operator process is impractical

Check the mold:

• while filled
• during transport between process steps
• on the intended pan/frame
• during demolding

Confirm:

• selected material
• hardness if specified
• documentation where relevant

Do not reject solely because hardness differs from an arbitrary preference that was never specified.

Examples:

• gummy formula
• chocolate
• resin
• plaster
• candle wax
• baking
• ice/freezing
• assembly/fit

Classify issues:

• critical functional
• cosmetic but unacceptable
• cosmetic acceptable
• reference/non-critical

Approve

Requirements met.

Revise

Design/process correction possible.

Reject

Wrong revision/material or major requirement failure.

Can I approve from photos only?

For cosmetic-only projects, sometimes. For fit/function/weight/release, physical testing is safer.

If one detail is wrong, do I need a completely new prototype?

Depends on the change. Some revisions require a new physical validation.

Can the supplier start production while we are still debating the logo?

That creates revision risk. Lock the approved design first.

Should sample approval be written?

Yes.

Should production match the approved sample exactly?

Production should match the agreed revision/quality criteria; soft-material manufacturing still needs defined acceptance criteria.