press molding

technology

Also known as: press mold

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "press molding" can refer to different technologies. One is a molding process used for plastics, where heat and pressure are applied to the material within a mold. Another application is in the clothing and footwear industry, where molding changes the surface characteristics of a garment or shoe using heat, moisture, or pressure. This includes processes like pressing, pleating, and mangling. In glassmaking, a "press mold" is a cast-iron mold used for shaping glass.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

sculpture
Casting and molding
…low reliefs—can be prepared by pressing clay into a rigid mold. More complex forms can be built up from a number of separately press-cast pieces. Simple terra-cotta molds can be made by pressing clay around a rigid positive form. After firing, these press molds can be used for press casting.
Read More
…low reliefs—can be prepared by pressing clay into a rigid mold. More complex forms can be built up from a number of separately press-cast pieces. Simple terra-cotta molds can be made by pressing clay around a rigid positive form. After firing, these press molds can be used for press casting.
Read More