The end of a brass tube is carefully sharpened using a utility knife. The tube is pressed into the mold rubber at a non-critical part of the mold surface. This removes a plug of silicone, creating an air vent. Rubber bands are used to hold the mold halves together. The mold is securely propped up at a 45 degree angle to aid in de-airing the resin as it fills the mold cavity. The funnel is then replaced in the mold.