As part of the California Raisin puppet restoration project, I was tasked with making a mold of two original clay hands from the Raisins. They were in great shape.
The brass and wire fit into keys at the wrists so clay can be poured in and the wrist can later be animated. The brass tubing fits into the arms and locks (by friction) into place.
Slits were added so the funnel of clay or resin can allow for easy removal.
The mold closed...
And opened.