Ramona is a chair designed and manufactured during a Scandinavian Furniture summer program in
The process of vacuum molding is very versatile but also has its limitations. The process consists of 4 basic steps:
Building the mold from which the veneers (plies of wood) are going to take the shape. The mold is made preferably from metal sheet and MDF for support. It has to be free of sharp edges to avoid puncturing the vacuum plastic bag.
Cutting the veneers. They have to be cut with exceeding dimensions so they can be sanded later on with the actual dimensions. They all have to be cut with the same dimensions and if possible alternate the direction of the wood for extra strength.
Vacuuming. The mold is introduced into a plastic bag, also exceeding its dimensions. Glue is applied to the veneers, alternating the side that is glued. The pack of veneers is placed on the mold and pressed strongly with the help of clamps and then the bag is sealed tightly and carefully. Then the air is vacuumed out of the bag to help the veneers press tightly against the mold.
Oven. Then, the whole pack is introduced in a pre-heated oven and left there for an approximate of 1 to 2 hours, depending on the size of the project.
- Finish. The desired piece is removed from the mold; the surplus is cut off and sanded for a final finish. Varnish or wax can be added to protect the wood.
