The invention is directed to a method of forming a molded item said method comprising the steps of (a) providing a mold former comprising an indentation having an inner surface and a bottom face and made of plastics and manufactured by a 3-dimensional printing process, said mold former being shaped to form a mold having (i) an indentation corresponding to the desired shape of said molded item； and (ii) a series of holes extending between the inner surface and the bottom face of the mold former, (b) forming a mold in said mold former from a plastics material； (c) positioning an elongate member in said mold； (d) introducing a volume of liquid into said indentation； (e) positioning a cover over said mold and sealing it thereto； (f) causing said liquid to solidify.
