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When it comes to manufacturing gummies, the flood and scrape method—also known as the pour and scrape method—is a popular and accessible starting point. But it’s just one of many ways to deposit your mixture into molds. The key is finding a method that’s both efficient and suited to your specific production needs. At Melt-to-Make™, we’ve seen it all. From pipettes and handheld dispensers to oversized molds paired with guitar string cutters, there’s no shortage of techniques out there. But not all methods are created equal. Our goal is to help you find the one that delivers consistent results, saves time, and supports scalable, high-quality gummy production.
What is the Flood and Scrape Method?
The flood and scrape method is tried and true for many gummy manufacturers. It's the perfect starting point that helps you avoid the hefty price tag of semi automatic depositing machines.
Benefits of the Flood and Scrape Method
- Low initial investment
- Efficient molding technique
- Simple Process & Easy Training
Here's how it works:
1. Set Up Your Flood Table
Before pouring, set out enough molds for your batch. We recommend starting with no more than 10 molds at a time—especially if you're new to the process. This allows you to work efficiently without sacrificing quality or speed.
2. Pour the Mixture
Carefully pour your melted gummy base over the molds, aiming for the center. This helps prevent overflow and ensures the mixture spreads evenly across the surface.
3. Scrape into Cavities
Using a food-safe scraper or straight-edge tool, quickly and firmly scrape the mixture across the molds. This action pushes the liquid into each cavity evenly. Work swiftly—timing is key for a clean finish before the mixture starts to set.
How do I know if the flood and scrape method is right for me?
It’s a simple, low-barrier technique that allows you to deposit gummies into molds without the need for expensive equipment or automation.
While semi-automatic gummy depositing machines can increase efficiency and precision, they often come with a hefty price tag, typically starting around $10,000 — not including accessories, cleaning supplies, or ongoing maintenance. For many small businesses, startups, or R&D labs, that kind of upfront cost just isn't feasible right away.
It’s not just a temporary solution — many makers find comfort in this method well into their growth stages, and find it to be an efficient, reliable solution.
Where Should I Source Gummy Molds From?
Finding the right gummy mold is essential for consistent results and efficient production. One trusted option is Bold Maker, a U.S.-based company known for high-quality, food-grade silicone molds designed specifically for edibles. Their molds are durable, easy to clean, and available in custom or standard sizes — perfect for scaling up with Melt-to-Make™.
Let me know if you'd like to add more about mold size considerations or custom mold options!
Master the Flood and Scrape Method 💡
To help you successfully perform the flood and scrape method, we’ve created two quick videos to walk you through the process — step-by-step, visually, and with no fluff.
🎥 Flood and Scrape with Melt-to-Make™ Gelatin & Gelatin/Pectin Blend
🎥 Flood and Scrape with Melt-to-Make™ Sugar-Free Pectin or Classic Pectin
No guesswork. Just smooth pouring and pro-level results!
Gelatin vs. Pectin: Choosing the Right Base for the Flood and Scrape Method
When using the Flood and Scrape Method, your choice of gummy base—gelatin or pectin—can make a big difference in how easily the process goes. Both deliver excellent results with Melt-to-Make™, but they behave differently once melted.
Gelatin: Flexible and Forgiving
Gelatin-based gummies are the most beginner-friendly option for the Flood and Scrape Method. Gelatin mixtures stay fluid longer before setting, giving you extra time to pour, spread, and scrape the mixture evenly across your molds.
This longer working time allows for smooth, consistent cavities and polished surfaces, even if your process is a little slower. For new makers or small-batch production, gelatin is the easiest and most forgiving option.
Shop Gelatin
Blue Raspberry - 10kg Case - Melt-to-Make® Gelatin Gummy Base
$249.00
A semi-tart blend of fresh blueberry and sweet raspberry. Finished gummies will have a light aqua blue appearance. Due to pigment variation of natural colors, slight color differences might be observed between batches.… read more
Pectin: Quick-Setting
Pectin-based mixtures behave very differently. Pectin begins to gel as it cools, which can make timing more critical. Once the temperature drops, the mixture thickens quickly and can become harder to spread evenly across your molds.
To succeed with Melt-to-Make™ Sugar-Free or Classic Pectin, we actually recommend working with larger batches—this helps the mixture retain heat longer and gives you more time to pour and scrape before it starts to set. Keep your workspace warm, move efficiently, and make sure your molds and tools are ready before you start pouring.
While pectin requires a little more precision, it rewards you with a beautiful, plant-based gummy that’s shelf-stable, clean-finished, and perfect for scaling up.
Shop Classic Pectin
Strawberry - 10kg Case - Melt-to-Make® Pectin Gummy Base
$249.00
Fresh, ripe, juicy natural strawberry flavor. Finished gummies will have a light pale red to pink appearance. Due to pigment variation of natural colors, slight color difference might be observed between batches.… read more
Shop Sugar-Free Pectin
Blueberry - 10kg - Melt-to-Make™ Sugar-Free Pectin Gummy Base
$299.00
Craft a naturally sweet and juicy Blueberry Sugar-Free Pectin Gummy Base with a vibrant bluish-purple hue. Each batch produces gummies with consistent color, though slight variations may occur due to the natural pigment differences.… read more
👀 Ready to Invest in your Business?
If you're interested in exploring semi-automatic depositing machine options, we have resources to guide you. For a comprehensive look at our recommended depositing equipment, including specifications and capabilities, visit:
🔗 https://melt-to-make.com/pages/depositing-equipment
These resources showcase equipment options that have been tested by our team and offered by our trusted partners. These machines are designed to help you scale your gummy production, improve efficiency, and maintain consistent quality — all with the backing of partners we work with and trust.
If you have questions, please reach out to us at support@melt-to-make.com or call us at 1-800-241-0341.
FAQs
1. What is the Flood and Scrape Method?
The Flood and Scrape Method—also called the pour and scrape method—is a hands-on technique for filling gummy molds without expensive equipment. You pour your Melt-to-Make™ base over the molds, then use a scraper to evenly fill each cavity. It’s a reliable way to create smooth, consistent gummies on a small or medium scale.
Why use the Flood and Scrape Method instead of a depositing machine?
The Flood and Scrape Method is an affordable, efficient way to produce gummies without investing in semi-automatic depositing machines. Those machines can cost $10,000 or more, while the flood and scrape process only requires a flat work surface, scraper, and molds—making it ideal for startups, small-batch makers, or R&D teams.
What equipment do I need for the Flood and Scrape Method?
You’ll need:
Melt-to-Make™ gummy base
Food-grade silicone molds
A flat surface or flood table
A food-safe scraper or straight-edge tool
Optional tools like squeeze bottles or handheld dispensers can help improve precision.
How do I know if the Flood and Scrape Method is right for my business?
If you’re a small producer or startup this method is perfect. Many gummy manufacturers continue using the flood and scrape method successfully as they scale up because it’s reliable, affordable, and easy to control.
What types of Melt-to-Make™ bases can I use with this method?
Melt-to-Make™ Gelatin
Melt-to-Make™ Gelatin/Pectin Blend
Melt-to-Make™ Sugar-Free Pectin
Melt-to-Make™ Classic Pectin
Each formula has slightly different set times, which are covered in our demonstration videos. Melt-to-Make™ Classic Pectin and Sugar-Free Pectin both set very quick.
Where can I buy high-quality gummy molds?
We recommend Bold Maker, a U.S.-based company that designs premium, food-grade silicone molds specifically for edibles. Their molds are durable, easy to clean, and available in standard and custom sizes—perfect for use with Melt-to-Make™ products.
Can I scale this the flood and scrape method for higher production?
Yes! As your production grows, you can increase efficiency with a flood table setup or transition to a semi-automatic depositing machine. Visit our Depositing Equipment Page to see our tested and trusted machine recommendations.
Where can I learn more about gummy manufacturing with Melt-to-Make™ Gummy Bases?
You can explore additional resources—like our drying guide, formula calculators, and detailed video tutorials—in the resources section of our website. These tools are designed to help you improve your process, scale confidently, and achieve consistent, professional-quality gummies.
