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