A molding system for forming an inoculated lignocellulose based medium into a fungal molded shape, the molding system comprising a vessel within which environmental conditions are regulated, the vessel comprising an inoculated lignocellulose based medium capable of supporting growth of saprophytic fungi without any secondary organisms displacing the process through infection a secondary organic material layered near the top and bottom of the inoculated lignocellulose based medium, a hard mold containing the flexible vessel; and a compressive system for applying a primary compressive pressure of at least 10 PSI to the lignocellulose based medium such that it takes on a fungal molded shape.