I did a third paint test, and I'm still not completely satisfied. I decided to go ahead and make a mold. If I don't like the way the models come out I can always work on it some more.
Model is glued to the bottom of the mold box, silicone is mixed and poured into the box. I may not have mixed it well enough, but I won't know until it's completely cured, which takes anywhere from eight to eighteen hours, depending on how it's mixed. I'll check it from time to time, but it may be tomorrow before I know.