Mycelium Moulds

In this project, students will be creating sustainable products out of mycelium – the root-like structures of mushrooms. After learning about mycelium and its innovative uses, they will participate in a written brainstorming activity to identify a consumer product to make, followed by a visual brainstorm to determine feasible and desirable forms. Guided by tutorial videos, they then design and 3D print moulds for their chosen solutions, before planting an organic substrate inoculated by mycelium. Over a period of 3-5 days, the mycelium grows and acts as a binding agent to ‘glue’ the substrate together. Once dried, the structurally sound products can be put to use in the world. With thanks to Grown.bio for inspiring this project and Aidan Leitch for inspiring the mould design.