CHICAGO (NOVEMBER 1, 2022) - Mold-A-Rama™: Molded for the Future, a new exhibition, opens November 3, 2022, at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (Griffin MSI). This exhibit tells the story of the beloved retro machines, which make plastic figurines right before your eyes. For over 60 years, Mold-A-Rama™ machines have pumped out hundreds of varieties of collectible plastic novelties, while providing guests a peek into mass production.

The exhibit features a collection of popular, rare, and experimental Mold-A-Rama souvenirs from the past with their quirky colors, designs and—of course—the smell. Guests can expand their collection by taking home their own colorful souvenirs from over eight machines featured in the exhibit and around the Museum. Featured molds for creation are the 1962 Seattle World’s Fair Monorail, one of the first molds ever created, and the Griffin MSI Robot, featured here during the Robot Revolution exhibition.

The Mold-A-Rama debuted at the 1962 World’s Fair in Seattle and grew to prominence at the 1964 expo in New York. Fairgoers savored the warm smell of molten plastic as a memory-making sensation. The William A. Jones Company, a multi-generational business headquartered in the Chicago area, acquired the Mold-A-Rama license in 1971. Keeping this classic technology alive, they now operate 63 machines in five states.

Visit Griffin MSI starting November 3, 2022, to purchase your own molds and appreciate the history of the iconic souvenir. The exhibit is open through late 2024 and is included with Museum Entry.

Information and tickets

For more information and tickets, visit msichicago.org/mold-a-rama.