Castcraft vacuum forming books

Vacuum Forming Books

Book & Video subjects:

Do-It Yourself Vacuum Forming

Do-It Yourself Vacuum Forming by Douglas E Walsh

This book has introduced thousands of modelers to vacuum forming (molding plastic sheets). Learn how to get 5 times more vacuum than any vacuum cleaner, and form up to ¼ in thick plastic sheets. Written in plain English for the hobbyist, this book shows you how to build low cost equipment from ordinary parts. Includes a wealth of information on plastics, low cost vacuum sources, how to use your oven most effectively and using alternate heat sources. Plenty of tips and examples will save you time. If you want to make a few parts on a budget, you need this book!

Tip - this is the book to get if you are new to vacuum forming, if you want to know how vacuum forming works, if you want to know how to make patterns or models for vacuum forming, if you want to know which plastics can be used for vacuum forming, and if you want to know how to hook up both a shop vacuum and a vacuum pump to get better results from a vacuum forming machine. In short, everything you need to know to get started.

By Doug Walsh. 130 pages. 5 1/2 x 8 1/2.

Do-It Yourself Vacuum Forming $13.00 +S&H

Order Policy:U.S. addresses only - Credit Cards and PayPal Accepted

Secrets of Building a Plastic Vacuum Forming Machine

Building a Plastic Vacuum Forming Machine by Gingery

This book shows you step-by-step how to build a vacuum forming machine capable of forming sheets of plastic up to 12” x 15” and 1/4 inch thick. You construct the frame from ordinary angle iron, and the book gives sources for all the unusual parts. The book explains the difference between “positive” and “negative” molds, and why you might want to use each type. Dozens of illustrations and photos.

Tip - The construction of this machine involves metal cutting, fastening, and some simple welding. If you are more comfortable working with wood instead of metal, get "Do-It Yourself Vacuum Forming" instead.

By Vincent Gingery. 106 pages. 5 1/2 x 8 1/2.

Secrets of Building a Plastic Vacuum Forming Machine $16.00 +S&H

Order Policy:U.S. addresses only - Credit Cards and PayPal Accepted

How to decide between these two books:

Both of these books show how to build vacuum forming machines. The machine designs shown in "Do-It Yourself Vacuum Forming" are made mainly from wood, are cheaper, easier and faster to build, and use your kitchen oven as the source for heating the plastic sheets. Plus the book tells you everything else you need to know, including how to make patterns for vacuum forming and what plastics to use.

The machine in "Secrets of Building a Plastic Vacuum Forming Machine" is made mostly from angle iron, and has a built-in oven. It has some, but not as much, information on patterns and plastics.

If you are serious about vacuum forming and want to build the same quality of machines that sell commercially for many hundreds or thousands of dollars, see Vacuum Forming Machine plans.