Using Desktop Vacuum Forming to Make Custom Molds for Chocolate and Food

We knew the FormBox had the potential to revolutionize the work of foodmakers, chefs and chocolatiers – but it was only when we started properly looking into it, that we realized the breadth of the foodie things this machine can do. If you've ever wanted to make custom molds in minutes, then desktop vacuum forming could be the next tool for your kitchen.

Chef Franco surrounded by Mayku made vacuum formed custom molds
Chef Franco Aliberti (@francoaliberti) with FormBox molds [Instagram]

‍How to make custom molds out of everyday objects in minutes

If an object fits on the FormBox’s tray, you can make a mold out of it. Mayku chefs and chocolatiers have made molds out of fruit, vegetables, nuts and other edible objects; as well as foraged things like shells, pine cones and seed pods; and novelty objects made from wood, hard plastics, plaster, steel, aluminum, resin and silicone.

Custom Perfume Bottle Mold made with desktop vacuum forming
Chocolate perfume bottle by @roberta.deiana [Instagram]

How to make master shapes for custom molds using desktop manufacturing tools

You might not have access to a 3D printer or laser cutter, but you can commission makers to create amazing custom designs which can then be turned into eye-catching edible goods. Reach out to local artists and makers who are already making with desktop manufacturing tools and you could find your ideal collaborator at a fraction of the price of outsourcing the entire mold making process.

Candy Bar Custom Mold made using Laser Cutting and Vacuum Forming
Custom wooden design by Kohl's Design It! Lab (@kohlsdesignitlab) [Instagram]

How to make custom molds using traditional craft techniques like sculpting and carving

Your local art shop contains a treasure trove of goodies for creating interesting objects for mold-making. Readily available materials that can be used to make molds include: air drying clay, polymer clay, playdough, balsa wood and styrofoam (for carving), as well as paper or card.  

Clay molds made by Marek Jacisin (@marekvj) [Instagram]

Re-use unwanted food items for impactful custom mold designs

Ever wondered what to do with unused veg or leftover cookie dough – why not use it to make a mold for an interesting banana-shaped cake? Things like old potatoes, cookie cut-offs and leftover dough are perfect for making all manner of weird and wonderful molds.

 

Damien Wager's sub-lime ice creams [Instagram]

What can you make in FormBox vacuum formed molds?

Below is a list of all the different ingredients that you can use with the FormBox. Mayku Sheets are food-safe and durable meaning you can use the same mold over and over with different ingredients.

Mayku Sheets cannot be used in the oven or with casting materials over 50 degree Celsius without risk of deforming the mold, so ensure you cool warm liquid down before pouring or pour with your mold over ice to compensate. 

Confectionary:

  • Chocolate (bars, truffles, lollies)
  • Honeycomb
  • Toffee
  • Fudge
  • Marshmallow
  • Boiled sweets/lollipops
  • Gummies
  • Halva

Frozen desserts:

  • Ice cream
  • Sorbet
  • Ice lollies
  • Frozen juices/punch
  • Molded ice
  • Mochi
  • Frozen yoghurt

Set liquid:

  • Jelly
  • Mousse
  • Panna cotta
  • Parfait
  • Set custard

Decorative:

  • Fondant
  • Gum paste
  • Sugar paste
  • Marzipan
  • Pastillage

Baked goods:

  • No-bake cake mixtures eg rocky roads or rice crispy cakes
  • Cookie dough
  • Meringue
  • Mousse
  • Cheesecake
  • Tuile

Savoury Food:

  • Sushi rice
  • Cheese
  • Butter
  • Aspic

 

If you've used the FormBox with food not found on this list, get in touch via Instagram or Facebook, we'd love to share your creations with the world.‍ 

Still interested? Want to learn more? Check out our list of 10 Chocolate Molds made on the FormBox for further inspiration or request to Speak to a Specialist to learn how to add the FormBox to your workflow. 

 

 

 

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