When I visited the Chicago Field Museum, I was hoping to find a cheap souvenir. Something just cute enough to grace my bookshelf but just crummy enough to not cost more than pocket change.
That’s when I saw it. An infamous Mold-A-Rama machine – one of five at the museum – the predecessor to the modern 3D printer. This staple of the 60’s and 70’s offers plastic souvenirs made right before your eyes. Now, they can only be found in a few museums, zoos, and attractions across the country, but they’re primarily located in the midwest.
My friend and I chose the little green apatosaurus located in front of the Africa exhibit.
I inserted $5 into the machine, watched the two metal plates compress, and though I didn’t see the plastic pour into the mold, I smelled it. Burning hot chemicals.
While these machines are probably environmental nuisances, I plan to keep and cherish my “disposable” little green dinosaur as a nostalgic token for my visit and time spent with my best friend, Anna.
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