Add non-permanent Lather Agitation to Smooth Bottom Mugs & Bowls

Someone asked this question online the other day and I shared my ideas. 

“I Really enjoy using the vintage Old Spice mugs but the smooth bottoms aren’t great for lather. Any ideas that aren’t permanent and won’t harm the brush or mug? I’m thinking maybe silicone insert of some type?”

Here are my ideas. 

Get a silicone mold shaped similar to a cupcake mold, though with smooth walls. The walls don't need to be as high as the ones in the pic. See attached image. You can find the right size of what you need on Amazon.   The best pattern are speed bumps, which are straight lines radiating from the center.   I’ve done a lot of research while designing our shave bowl and that is the best I came up with.  See the pics.

Next, you'll need RTV Silicone.  Here is info to know:  Uncured RTV silicone is very messy.  If it gets on your clothes it will never come out.  I always keep a roll of paper towels around when it inevitably gets where it shouldn’t.  Working with RTV silicone can be frustrating.  I would purchase enough supplies to do a second one if needed.  Uncured RTV shouldn’t stay on your skin.  Remove with soap and water. I would smooth it with something like a popsicle stick.  A butter knife will work if needed, though wash very thoroughly after use.  After smoothing, use a paper towel to break the link of RTV and the project

Now you are ready for the project.:

1. You'll also need something approximating the speed bumps.  I would go with smooth stainless or ceramic rods roughly 1/8” (3.2mm).  It shouldn’t extend above the silicone very far.  It’s a ‘less is more’ thing.

2. wipe the silicone base down with alcohol and a lint free cloth. 

2. Lay a bed of RTV silicone on the silicone sheet.  Lay your speed bumps in the silicone.

3. Let it cure 24 hours.

4. Time for a great shave