Vacuumforming is relatively simple fabrication process that heats sheets of plastic to a pliable state, and then pressure forms the plastic over a plug mold. For low-budget scenarios like costuming, vacuumforming can be done in your home. There is no need to go to a professional vacuum-forming shop to get parts made.

The tools are relatively simple:

• Sheet plastic
• Holding frame
• Heating oven
• Vacuum platen
• Plug mold
• Vacuum pump

The Sheet Plastic can be bought online or locally through a plastic distributor. The Holding Frame and Vacuum Platen can be made from wood. The Heating Oven can be a standard kitchen oven. The Plug Molds can be made out of wood or cast plaster. The Vacuum Pump can be a vacuum cleaner or Shop-vac (Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner).

Be very careful doing the things described in this section.   You can get seriously injured if you do not take things slow and with precaution.

• Preparing The Plastic
• Preparing Your Work Area
• Heating The Plastic
• Vacuumforming The Plastic
• Releasing The Plastic From The Mold