DIY Chocolate Molds - Revisited Topic I think
Posted in: Geek Gear - Cool Tools
We created a similar process. We designed our bars using Adobe Illustrator and created 3D models using Sketchup . We printed the bar "positives" using a budget 3D printer set to its finest resolution settings.
We bought some plans online to build a vacuum form machine. The plans were great and offered many options for customization.
Once we got the machine up and running we had to source some plastic. We purchased some PETG and Polycarbonate. The polycarbonate would be great but have found that it requires much too high of temps (like @timwilde mentioned) and melts our 3D printed molds after a single pull.
PETG is working great for now. It creates very detailed molds that have stood up well.
I've attached some pics of the process as well as an image of the final bars. Note that these pics were from pretty early on in the process. Since then we added a frame for rigidity and reprinted the "positives" a few times as we tweaked the design.
Would love to hear any feedback or answer any questions as we have learned so much from this great community.
