Mycelium Panels
_Subtractive Manufacture

Subtractive fabrication methods using digital tools such as CNC machining remain largely underexplored in mycelium-based fabrication. This project addresses that gap through a hybrid workflow that casts large-format panels from enriched spent mushroom substrate and subsequently carves bespoke patterns through CNC routing. By avoiding proprietary fungal cultures and sterile laboratory conditions, the process relies instead on readily available agricultural waste and standard fabrication tools, lowering production barriers while expanding formal and performative possibilities. The project situates mycelium panels as adaptable, regenerative building systems rather than fixed products. Panels measuring 2 × 7 × 3 inches and 2 × 2 × 3 inches were grown from spent farmer mushroom blocks within humidified plastic enclosures over a ten-day period, then fully dried, CNC routed with digitally designed patterns, and sealed with three coats of amber shellac to improve particle stability.