Over-mold injection molding and two-shot injection molding are two distinctly different molding methods even though both are used to combine multiple polymers into a single part. Because of this similarity,

the two are often confused or misapplied by the design engineer. The more finite capabilities of these two molding methods differ as much as their required tooling, machines and often, prototype the resulting part cost.

Choosing the right method can be a critical factor in achieving targeted features, cost and time-to-market. Both methods can be used to create the soft-touch products popular in today’s marketplace. However, both methods can be applied to other applications where multiple polymers must be combined into a single part. Over-mold injection molding is used for parts that do not require fine detail and can absorb the higher cost of machine time and labor. 2-shot injection molding is reserved for parts requiring fine detail and low part cost.