Is it summer? Mold a gelatin dessert into a large green leaf. How about a ********* tree or an Easter egg? Autumn is a great time for orange gelatin and Halloween themes, but any season is the right season for fun or elegantly shaped gelatin desserts. Although gelatin can seem mundane or even boring, a gelatin mold can perk it up and have your family and guests anticipating their serving. To make the best of gelatin molds, make sure the gelatin is mixed and dissolved thoroughly. Lightly oil the mold with a spray oil or an oily cloth, and chill it. Pour the gelatin into the mold and place in the refrigerator to set. That's simple enough and so simple that it's easy to experiment with the concept and have a little fun. To make a great looking gelatin dessert, spread a layer of fruit or candy in the gelatin mold, pour a two inch layer of gelatin over it and let it set, then add the rest. You can let the gelatin almost set then add fruit or whatever you like, mix it in and the put it in the mold. Get creative. Gelatin molds were meant to enjoy. Gelatin molds come in all shapes and sizes so if you want a specific shape, the chances are that you can find just what you're looking for, whether that means a cornucopia for Thanksgiving or a flag for Independence Day. Some gelatin molds are collectors items and a few are real antiques. When you start looking for just the right gelatin mold, you may wind up in some unusual places. You may come across some very interesting ones in second hand shops, auctions and antique stores. Older gelatin molds will be made of metal, with plastic replacing much of that in the last few decades and silicone now beginning to replace plastic. While metal will chill faster, silicone makes it easier to remove the gelatin. Plastic can crack after awhile, but it's sturdy and inexpensive to buy.