3D Printed Mold vs Fiberglass Gelcoat Mold – Cost Breakdown & Best Use Cases

Which mold-making method is better for composites, 3D printed or fiberglass gelcoat? In this video, I break down the costs, time investment, and pros & cons of each workflow from my personal opinion. I’ll also share my real-world experience on when each method shines and where it might hold you back. Since this was my first fiberglass mold my workflow and speed needs practice to improve, but overall I was very happy with the results. Whether you’re into carbon fiber, fiberglass, or other composites, this comparison will help you choose the right process for your next project. 00:00 - Intro 01:34 - Cost breakdown (material & labor) 16:49 - Strengths & weaknesses of each 23:47 - My recommendation for different projects ------------------------------------ If you're interested in the supplies I use and would like to support my work, I’ve included some Amazon affiliate links below Basics Scale - https://amzn.to/4jR4Egr Superglue Activator - https://amzn.to/43rXzgy Hose Clamps - https://amzn.to/3F0XAyP Vinyl Hose For Infusion - https://amzn.to/437vbQZ Shears - https://amzn.to/4dcTAYq Mixing Sticks - https://amzn.to/4dhfrhD Paint Brushes - https://amzn.to/3ZigCHD Foam Brushes - https://amzn.to/4dbZysA Penny Roller - https://amzn.to/4djEe4v Round Cutting Blade - https://amzn.to/3GVwkT2 Cutting Mat - https://amzn.to/43jILiY Paint and Shaping Finish1 Clearcoat - https://amzn.to/3SAmYhS Upol Primer - https://amzn.to/4iVb64J Upol Fast Hardener For Primer -https://amzn.to/4deEiCy Iwata HVLP Gun For Primer - https://amzn.to/3S0iWzd Orbit Sander - https://amzn.to/3YIyOtQ 6" Dura-Gold Sandpaper - https://amzn.to/4jUgSVJ 3" 3M Trizact Sanding Disc - https://amzn.to/458nJWQ 3" Sanding Disc - https://amzn.to/3Zchw8v Rattlecan Primer - https://amzn.to/43jtjDn Misc 3M Adheasion Promoter - https://amzn.to/4j1c13C Food Dehydrator - https://amzn.to/4dmPHk4 Einstar 3D Scanner - https://amzn.to/4mb78rL