The History of Injection Molding at Mold-A-Rama, ‘Chicago’s Plastic Souvenir Empire’

Mold-A-Rama: that space-age looking vending machine found at most major Chicago tourist spots, including both zoos, the Willis Tower, and the Field Museum. Here how it works:

You insert two bucks, and hydraulic arms under a plastic bubble press two halves of a metal mold together.

After 60 seconds of histrionic gadgetry, the contraption spits out a polyethylene tchotchke that smells like melted spatula.

Listen to the 9-minute podcast at WBEZ 91.5 Chicago.


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2 Comments

  1. So, I want one. Working out build details in my head right now!

  2. I saw a homemade injection molding unit at a Maker Faire a few years back – so it’s totally possible to DIY!

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