HOW TO MAKE A “NO VAC” VACUUM FORMER

This simple, inexpensive shop accessory is an easy to build vacuum former that lets you form canopies, cowls and other details up to 7x7 inches in size. The plastic for forming is cheap (or even free) by reusing grocery store packaging or fast food outlets. You probably already have all the tools and half the materials on hand.

The platen (forming surface) is 8x8 inches. My prototype setup creates vacuum using a piston in a 12-long piece of 4-inch diameter PVC pipe. It produces more than enough vacuum for forming, more than is available from a household vacuum cleaner. I tried using a longer piece of PVC pipe but there was no noticeable increase in performance.

TOOLS AND MATERIALS

You’ll need a coping saw, electric hand drill, a 1/16- or