Silicone Sealant Bead Former

This simple model allows for attractive silicone beads to be formed easily and without mess. This former currently produces straight beads (triangular cross section), which work really well and look good. I plan on adding radiused formers soon, too. The former contains shapers for a 5mm, 8mm, 10mm and 16mm bead. I had to use the 16mm bead to seal a shower tray that had been poorly fitted - usually such large beads end up looking unsightly, but the former made it look neat, and the seal is perfect.

Printing

I printed in cheap GST3D PLA with 0.2mm layer height - this is probably about the easiest print imaginable.

UsageUsage

Simply apply the bead, then press the appropriate-size corner of the former into the angle being sealed, and slide the former flat-side-first up the bead. Wipe off excess with paper towel - it comes off easily.

I had intended for this to be disposeable, but the silicone actually comes off quite well - the photo is of the former after going through a full skeleton-gun tube of silicone. Definitely reusable! Feel free to message me if you need a different size/curved radius - I should have a parametric version out soon, but happy to send you an STL in the meantime.