Vacuform Machine For Clam Shell Style Stencils

[Chuck Young]

This is how I make my stencils as a paired set that closes up over the bait like a clamshell. Also note in the pictures the medium binder covers I use.  It is just a box with a pegboard top and a vacuum accessory attached. First I fold a piece of plain paper and place the fold between the rows of holes. Center the lure over peg holes and trace the lure blank. Cut through both sides of the paper, unfold, and trce to foamboard.This is the material that is like a foam sandwich in cardboard bread.  As seen in the pictures this makes matching mirror images of the bait in foam board. The baits are then placed in the holes, the vacuum turned on, and the sheet heated with a heat gun untill it forms to the blank. The end result can then be folded in half over the bait, entirely enveloping it. It cant get out of alignment. Sometimes you have to add additional layers of foam some popsicle sticks, etc to get the lure to lay on the seam. But once you have it dialed in, save the foamboard and use it again and again.

Enjoy, Chuck

 

[Jordanlures]

So simple and such a good idea, thanks for sharing, I love simple it usually means I can do it to. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David J

[Chuck Young]

Thanks guys. I appreciate the feedback.

[mark poulson]

That is slick!!!

[JBlaze]

Very nice and well done. Thanks for the pictures and for sharing.

John

[Tuna]

Great stuff Chuck! To make an accurate bait outline, just cut a bait in half and clean up edges. saw something very similar on YouTube. I like that this idea does both sides and uses binder covers easily found at an office supply store.

Wondered, does it matter if you use the satin or gloss binder covers?