What follows are some insights into what’s possible when a partnership like Shapeways and ZVerse comes together.

1. Designing for 3D printing is no more expensive than traditional manufacturing

It’s time to debunk this common misconception. No matter whether you choose 3D printing or a traditional manufacturing methodology, there remain two main factors that determine costs: design complexity and price of materials. Traditional manufacturing methods, such as injection molding and Computer Numeric Control (CNC) machining, offer no advantages or shortcuts in the design process.

When it comes to prototyping, especially with increased speed, as well as custom designs, low-volume production and rapid turnaround for tight deadlines, 3D printing is gaining rapid momentum.

2. Specifically designing for 3D printing, however, can create certain advantages

Designers planning to 3D print their creations realize much more design freedom along with increased prototyping speed while minimizing materials usage and thus cost. To put it in layman’s terms, it’s art versus part. On one hand, designers know that parametric designs are perfect for goods that feature rigid or boxier designs where every dimension and feature is provided because fit with another component typically is part of the scenario.

In contrast, designers choosing 3D printing can work with mesh designs, which are optimal for more freeform and organic products. Popular with artists, architects, jewelers and fashionistas, designers have more opportunities to manipulate geometries and the result can be more focused on meeting unique and individual aesthetics.

According to ZVerse, digital manufacturers turn away 35% to 40% of their leads because they don’t have the needed 3D printing files, which stifles innovation. With ZVerse’s CADaaS platform, digital manufacturers can take advantage of a range of design services that directly translate into keeping more customers and revenue in their ecosystem.

This scenario extends to fix-a-file situations where an existing design file can be optimized for printability or weaknesses in existing designs can be addressed and remedied.

3. Customization reigns supreme

Designers at ZVerse have been asked by customers to develop plans for a wide variety of items, including custom furniture, desktop items, miniature models of skyscrapers, architectural dioramas, awards, trophies, custom urns for departed pets and even an assortment of branding irons. Shapeways has been called upon to print a custom, six-foot-long bathroom vanity that was inspired by the ocean’s coral reefs. The result had to stand up to the rigors of a family’s energetic children while being waterproof and sturdy. Several years ago, Shapeways printed a special dagger that was used on the popular TV series “Game of Thrones.”

Reverse engineering is another tool in the designer’s bailiwick. It’s ideal for parts or products made with traditional manufacturing methods that do not require exact replication. Aided by caliper measurements, pieces can be produced that otherwise may be out-of-stock, no longer available or cost prohibitive. Designers also take advantage of scanning when an exact replica is required.

By turning two-dimensional drawings into manufacturable 3D files, designers make possible results that otherwise would have been stagnated.

Designers love so-called “sticky note projects,” where a customer has an idea on paper, which are very popular at ZVerse. All a designer needs to get started is a visual reference of some kind and a description. One customer delivered four one-dimensional images and the designer took over to make the conversion needed to prepare the product for 3D printing. Producing one-off designs, which would be price prohibitive to create by traditional means due to steep start-up costs, are a sweet spot for 3D printing.

4. The jewelry industry is a designer’s 3DP wonderland

By being able to replicate the exact look and feel of traditionally cast objects, 3D printed jewelry is on the verge of achieving mainstream acceptance. According to a recent market report from Technavio, the global market for 3D printed jewelry will grow by more than $2.5B between 2021 and 2025, with a CAGR of over 22%.

A customer recently came to ZVerse with a cherished family heirloom, an antique signet ring. The task was to replicate the ring so each grandchild could have a copy. The designer made sure that every little scratch and the decades-old worn look were also part of the design. Another customer requested a custom ear cuff featuring a Roman statue. While clients typically wait months and months to receive custom-designed items from traditional jewelers, 3D printing makes it possible to drastically reduce the turnaround time while delivering truly one-of-a-kind keepsakes.

5. The growing availability of plastics, metals and colors increases design possibilities

A growing variety of versatile plastics and metals are available for 3D printing along with an ever-increasing palette of colors. While the expanding menu of choices bodes well for the industry and customers alike, all materials are different. While some are strong or solid, others are flexible, lightweight, shiny or dull. For the best results, designers must consider the ideal material for the task at hand. Choosing 3D printing with resin plastics can help achieve the really fine details while metals still are advancing and need to catch up on the capabilities.

For Shapeways customer Tilt Hydrometer, it was important that its free-floating, beer-brewing product be manufactured in different colors. Shapeways suggested Nylon 12 as the best material, using Selective Laser Sintering, and produced the product line in eight colors.

Meanwhile, 3D printing in metal is enjoying impressive growth due to the greater availability of aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, nickel, platinum, silver, stainless steel and titanium. Cost is always a consideration when making parts or products, especially from advanced materials, such as titanium, which can be cost prohibitive when using traditional manufacturing.

When investigating the best possible material, it’s important to remember that even when a material may pose increased upfront costs, the result may yield a superior finish and extended lifespan for optimal return on investment.

About Shapeways

Shapeways offers over 90 materials and finishes, and is always interested in sourcing other materials customers may be interested in using too. Contact Shapeways now to enjoy the benefits of advanced technology and materials for manufacturing creations with accuracy, complex detail, and no minimum or limits in terms of mass customization or single part orders.Shapeways has worked with over 1 million customers in 160 countries to make over 21 million parts!Read about case studies, find out more about Shapeways solutions, and get instant quotes here.

The post Design Freedom and Flexibility with 3D Printing appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

The old stand-bys are there for a reason; after all, who doesn’t love a luxurious bouquet of flowers or a great luncheon or dinner at their favorite restaurant? But make her proud by thinking outside the normal Hallmark holiday box, and treat her to something she would never expect. 3D printing is not only a great way to get a big reaction, but it is also a wonderful opportunity to show off your creative side with gift-giving–especially if you are uploading your own design for 3D printing.

Jewelry is almost always a safe choice, but 3D printing adds extra flair, and in many cases sophistication too. At Shapeways, jewelry is made with the wax casting method. Put very simply, 3D printed wax molds in the shape of the desired structures are filled with molten metal to set and ultimately reveal the jewelry. This type of technology is used for innovative products and high-end jewelry, usually with metals like gold, silver, platinum, copper, and brass.

Here are a few unique businesses that work with Shapeways to 3D print exceptional jewelry designs—many of which would be just perfect for May 9^th.

Female Engineers Make Jewelry Designs from Children’s Artwork

Coming together to form Sprout Design Lab during 2020 (as COVID-19 began to force many changes throughout the world), a small team of female engineers has been working together ever since to offer a valuable service in preserving children’s artwork.

“Shapeways has been pivotal to the prototyping of our designs and to the founding of the company,” says Jade Brown, founder of Sprout Design Lab, headquartered in Charleston, SC.

When they mention on their website that the artwork is drawn by children but designed by engineers, that couldn’t be more true as Brown holds a degree in mechanical engineering from Duke University, and was able to draw more of her peers to work in the business. As is the case with numerous other Shapeways customers, Brown discovered 3D printing while on the job after college.

Working at Boeing for five years as a Repair & Design Engineer, Brown not only learned about the concept of 3D printing, but she learned how to use the technology—making it easy for her to put her home 3D printer to work to make a last-minute Mother’s day gift. The defining moment came as she realized she could use her niece’s jewelry design to make a 3D printed pendant as an heirloom. Not only that, but word began to spread regarding Brown’s design and technology prowess, and soon she was in high demand to produce more.

The response to Brown’s work was so positive and overwhelming that she reached out to Shapeways for help with a more polished look, and materials beyond the plastics she was using on her at-home printer. During that time, she was turning Sprout into a full-time business too, along with developing a proprietary system for morphing children’s artwork into clear designs—not always easy considering kids don’t really design for fine jewelry.

“I began working on Sprout full-time right at the beginning of the pandemic. I spent the first six months creating the website, branding, packaging, etc.,” said Brown. “Around August 2020 I reached out to my old engineering co-workers to ask if they might be interested in doing some 3D design work for me once we launched in October.”

“They were on board and I began virtually teaching them the tools and techniques I use. I gave them example children’s drawings to practice with. We now use Hive, a project management system, where they can pick up a design on their own time and track it every step of the way from drawing to jewelry.”

Customers request 3D prints of items like family portraits, children’s first pieces of artwork, their first ‘signatures,’ and more—all of which are converted into family treasures in silver, gold, or platinum.

Not only is the quality and capability of Shapeways jewelry manufacturing on full display with custom necklaces from Sprout, but it’s a great way for parents or grandparents to treasure—and show off—the creativity of their kids.

Find out more about Sprout here.

Architect Turned Jeweler Creates Commemorative 3D Printed Pieces

Lori Steenhoek founded Love, Lori Michelle to make jewelry and also customized pieces that truly mean something to her customers; for example, she recently designed a cuff bracelet in the shape of a gavel for an individual who just became a judge. Steenhoek has a background in architecture and design, and for 16 years, her ‘day job’ has involved creating 3D renderings for architecture and real estate.

Based in Washington, D.C., Steenhoek is very politically inclined and enjoys making customized DC-themed work, as well as designing any types of pieces that promote a good cause or movement. Moving into 3D jewelry design was both enjoyable and intuitive because Steenhoek was already so familiar with making 3D models for her job.

“I got used to making digital 3D models, but felt like something tangible was lacking, and I always wanted to be able to physically manifest some of the designs I was creating,” said Steenhoek. “I started channeling some of my creativity into making small pieces of jewelry for myself and for my family as gifts. I was using the same software and skill-set for modeling buildings, but with jewelry it was on a much different scale and for a different purpose.”

Steenhoek found that her new passion wasn’t without challenge as she really had to re-train her brain in terms of designing to think about new proportions, in millimeters instead of feet or inches, and she had to learn how to master concepts like how big a loop needs to be for a chain to slide through it for a necklace.

Steenhoek’s first piece of jewelry was a small map outline of D.C. with a loop on the back for using it as a pendant. Although she was thinking about purchasing her own 3D printer for home, instead the new designer began reading about Shapeways.

“It seemed like the perfect solution to turn my design into something I could hold and eventually wear. I uploaded my design and decided to test it out in stainless steel first,” said Steenhoek. “Once I held it in my hand, I was hooked!”

“I realized the endless possibilities of creating custom, one-of-a-kind pieces, and things that are meaningful to a specific person.”

Working with Shapeways, Steenhoek began prototyping—often using plastic for testing shapes, and then also stainless steel to examine the weight of a piece of jewelry.

“After that, I switched over to wax casting for the metals, and have expanded my designs into a line of jewelry, as well as custom orders for clients who are looking for something specific.”

For Mother’s Day gifts, Lori suggests the Sakura or Blossom earrings. Check out more jewelry here.

Dutch Design Duo Mixes New Technology & Hand Craftsmanship in Jewelry

Amsterdam-based design firm Groen & Boothman specializes in a wide range of industrial design wares, including exquisite jewelry which they create—and Shapeways 3D prints in a variety of materials. In their latest bracelet series, Elements, designers Hanno Groen and Joanna Boothman knew precisely which material they would be using:

“I saw the possibility for 3D printing with wax and silver at Shapeways, and it motivated me to launch this project,” said Groen.

In one of their latest series, the Water and Cosmic bracelet designs, they use computer algorithms to create fascinating patterns like flowing water and crystal shapes to capture the spirit of nature on your wrist.

“Our goal is to manipulate and play with the algorithms to take design to a new level,” says Boothman.

The designers used Nylon 12 [Versatile Plastic] for prototyping, and then once Shapeways had also 3D printed the wax molds and then cast the silver bracelets, Groen & Boothman took over, displaying high art in putting the finishing touches on with impressive hand craftsmanship in polishing.  

Both designers have been working with Shapeways for many years, and while they are meticulous about their designs, they are also very willing to experiment with new material and technologies. For both the Water and Cosmic bracelets, they knew 3D printing was the avenue to pursue for manufacturing such complex geometries.

“There’s an aspect that is more subtle,” said Boothman. “You’ve got this high-tech 3D printing process which gives us these beautiful raw silver parts that we finish by hand.”

“This integration of craft, the marriage of handicraft and the 3D printing, gives that quality you expect from fine jewelry.”

Find out more about the Elements jewelry series, and Groen & Boothman’s products here.

As a global manufacturing partner, Shapeways enjoys working with these extraordinary businesses created by jewelry designers who share a passion for innovative design and quality products. There are so many great pieces of jewelry and ideas to choose from for amazing Mother’s Day gifts, but we encourage you to upload your own designs too. It’s as easy as creating an account, uploading your model, and receiving an instant quote as well as printability analysis.

Enjoy the benefits of advanced technology and a wide range of materials from Shapeways for 3D printing your creations with accuracy, complex detail, and no minimum or limits in terms of mass customization or single part orders. Shapeways has worked with over 1 million customers in 160 countries to 3D print over 20 million parts! Read about case studies, find out more about Shapeways solutions, and get instant quotes here.  

The post Mother’s Day: Don’t Just Take Time Out—Go All Out With 3D Printed Jewelry appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

Trying to define the artistic spirit is a creative exercise on its own, delving into a universal human quality. Since ancient times, artists have been drawn to making jewelry and taking risks in terms of presenting individual expression that is often meant for their own wear or to adorn the bodies of others—and sometimes sparking an enviable and successful trend—no matter the century. Some designers seek out fame and fortune with success in jewelry, while others like to keep production levels select, and low key.

Jewelers have been experimenting with materials since ancient times

Since the beginning of time, finding new and inspiring materials has been key to making jewelry, beginning with ancient bling such as shells and beads made from natural items and other accessories featuring animal parts like hooves, antlers, teeth and bones. Undoubtedly, time travelers going in either direction would have a lot to learn from each other—whether in demonstrating how to make rough-hewn designs of yesteryear or sharing the spectacular magic of a technology capable of creating an incredibly intricate object, layer by layer, from a computer file (where to start?).

Progress in materials science allows for infinite choices in design

As materials science has evolved, the choices open to designers have changed drastically. One thing remains the same though: the continued role of jewelry in nearly every culture. Without a doubt, many emotions are connected to items like rings, for example. The engagement ring—worn on the left hand—was originally thought by the Romans to connect directly to the heart. It was inevitable that many 3D designers would decide to marry, bearing 3D printed wedding rings, sharing their stories with us, and undeniably raising the bar in terms of the lengths they went to in designing jewelry and proposing.

It is the rare individual who doesn’t enjoy jewelry in some shape or form, or in giving a pair of earrings, a necklace, or a charm as a gift. Feelings usually do play a huge part in the process as designers are inspired to make something like necklaces or bracelets and then keep them for themselves—or bestow them on others as gifts—to be treasured for decades.

Shapeways offers a wide variety of materials and finishes

When it comes to choosing materials, jewelry makers must be discerning in terms of what will work best for their designs in terms of strength, flexibility, durability, and finish. Currently, Shapeways offers the following materials for jewelry designers:

• Nylon 12 [Versatile Plastic] – a strong yet flexible material, Nylon 12 [Versatile Plastic] is used for a wide range of industrial projects. 3D printed with selective laser sintering (SLS) technology, this material is available with natural matte and polished finishes, as well as a special premium finish for a high-end look and feel.
• Bronze – a copper-tin alloy made up of 10% tin and 90% copper, this material is often used for jewelry with a vintage appearance, featuring a deep red color, marbling, and silver highlights. Bronze jewelry at Shapeways is made through wax casting, and is suitable for bracelets, earrings, and cufflinks—all available in natural matte or polished finishes.
• Brass – An alloy made up of 15% zinc, 5% tin and 80% copper, brass is popular for jewelry designs like pendants and tie bars requiring intricate detail in manufacturing. Made through wax casting, brass jewelry from Shapeways is professional looking and available with a natural matte finish or a shiny polish.

•  Gold – As another premium metal from Shapeways, both 14-carat and 18-carat gold are available in yellow, white, and rose. Produced via wax casting, intricate designs can be made with gold from Shapeways, featuring a professional look and finish for bracelets, tie bars, and earrings.
• Platinum – one of the highest quality materials available, platinum is a white metal used for high-end men and women’s jewelry like cufflinks, tie bars, rings, bracelets, and necklace pendants. While this is a more expensive material, platinum results in highly detailed, professional looking jewelry made from wax casting.
• Silver – a high-quality alloy used to make cufflinks, tie bars, rings, bracelets, and pendants, silver tends to be more malleable—as well as highly popular in the jewelry industry. Used with wax casting, Shapeways offers silver jewelry with the following finishes: natural, polished, fine-detail polished, and antique (often used for the steampunk look).

On-demand 3D printing and huge opportunities for customization benefit jewelers

With so many different types of materials and 3D printing technology to choose from, designers experience vast opportunity for customization. With on-demand printing, small volumes can be made from a 3D file—and in many cases, jewelers can design one-of-a-kind personalized pieces. Jewelry plays a variety of cultural roles too, from class rings, and wedding rings, to many different types of items that are handed down through generations all over the world.

Designers enjoy great access to technical support and customer service

Once you upload your model to Shapeways—and in fact, upload up to 20 models at once if you wish—you can look forward to a quick analysis of your design for printability and material options. If you would like the option to speak to a 3D printing expert to discuss scaling your jewelry business with additive manufacturing services from Shapeways, you can contact the team by filling out the form here.

The ability to receive instant quotes for 3D printing at Shapeways is a huge bonus—especially for new businesses keeping a close eye on where their money is going. For incredibly innovative designers like Sascha at Kova by Sascha, the ability to upload and receive quotes online was not only super efficient but also eye-opening. In comparing manufacturing expenses, the New York designer discovered that working with Shapeways through the Long Island City, NY factory was less expensive than having her work produced in China.

“Working directly with a 3D printing factory like Shapeways allows us to have peace of mind, there’s no stressing over the moving parts of traditional production,” explained Sascha further.

Technology like SLS 3D printing means unprecedented freedom in design

Sacha decided to start designing decorative crowns after a venture out into the alternative world of the Burning Man experience. She continues to make headpieces for enthusiastic festival-goers, but also for brides and other stylish 3D printing fans. Also using Nylon 12 [Versatile Plastic], Sascha enjoys the spectacular design freedom afforded by SLS technology.

Without the need for supports, jewelry designers (and so many others engaged in industrial 3D printing) are able to make complex geometries perhaps not ever possible before at all, and especially not with conventional technology. This is due to the powder-based technology of SLS, and its greatest benefit in no requirements for supports. The added powder surrounding the part during printing acts as an indirect support mechanism that is wiped away easily after printing—leaving a stable part that does not require post-processing, or present the potential for damage during removal of supports.

Explore prototyping opportunities too

Materials like Fine Detail Plastic are also available through Shapeways for jewelry prototyping, used with material jetting. With the ability to create detailed prototypes, designers across the board are able to evaluate jewelry and other parts before investing in final production. Changes can be made as quickly as it takes to edit a 3D file, offering another type of freedom as designers and engineers are not forced to wait long periods of time before putting their hands on a new iteration or new generation of a product.

3D designers use Shapeways for their jewelry business

Wearable Cityscape owner enjoys a great life thanks to 3D design

Manufacturing from Shapeways, and integration with e-commerce sites like Shopify and Etsy, have made life pretty darned grand for jewelry makers like Ola Shekhtman, owner of Wearable Cityscapes.

Favoring materials like polished silver, gold, and platinum, Shekhtman is able to travel the world making her 3D designs inspired after cities. She has sold over 6,000 of her various rings and is also able to enjoy her free time while Shapeways takes care of the manufacturing details:

“…To make 1000 rings by hand I would spend nearly 100 years. Shapeways can produce this amount in 2-3 weeks,” said Shekhtman. “Using 3D modeling I can make a city once and it is available to order in any quantity, forever, which frees me up for new designs.”

“It is my first passive income. All I need to do is upload models, photos of real products from different views, and detailed descriptions to help potential customers make a purchase.”

Investing in a 3D printer, along with accompanying software, a variety materials, and any required ventilation systems can be extremely expensive. While many designers today do design from the desktop (and often for prototyping), working with an experienced manufacturing partner can be extremely satisfying. The designer is freed up to do what they do best, while Shapeways continues on in printing over 20 million parts for over one million customers worldwide.

The digital age has brought incredibly positive change to the world. 3D designers like Ola Shekhtman exemplify what it is like to be free to live overseas, free to create popular rings with 3D software, and free in terms of time as Shapeways handles production.

Like Shekhtman, growing numbers of businesses rely on Shapeways to manufacture large numbers of 3D printed parts, varying in technology and materials depending on the project. Many designers have already been working with Shapeways for years, and over time have evolved in growth with the company—honing design skills and knowledge of production, as well as experimenting with a wide variety of different types of materials, finishes, and detailed structures.

Dutch designers 3D print bracelets, each as unique as a fingerprint

In 3D printing the Creatures bracelet series Dutch designers Groen & Boothman decided on selective laser sintering (SLS) technology with Nylon 12 [Versatile Plastic]. Their wish was to stay far away from the concept of disposable jewelry, instead making high-end products with strength and durability to stand the test of time. The work of the Dutch designing duo is particularly interesting too as they have woven in a handcrafted element with their 3D printed cuff bracelets, accenting them with beautiful leather on the interior, along with a gold-plated stud bearing the design firm’s logo.

The designers are also extremely happy about access to materials and technology that allow them to customize products intensely. Each of their bracelets are “as unique as a fingerprint.” Eschewing any type of mass production, Groen & Boothman use their artistic and industrial design skills to bring both elegance and emotion to their designs.

While Groen & Boothman have had good communication with Shapeways for years, they point out that one of the greatest benefits in working together is the ability to be designing at any time of day or night, and enjoy the ability to upload models quickly.

Learn more about building your 3D printed jewelry business

Jewelry makers are inspired by nature, other people, fashion, and often compelled to express their own emotions in design, but the discovery of new mediums and powerful tools like 3D printing can be the catalyst for blowing the lid off traditional techniques and elevating artistic expression and satisfaction like never before.

Shapeways makes world-class 3D printing more accessible to everyone through automation, innovation and digitization. Our purpose-built software, wide selection of materials and technologies, and global supply chain lower manufacturing barriers and speed delivery of quality products. Shapeways offers over 10 different technologies for manufacturing, and 90 different materials and finishes. Find out more about powering your own jewelry business through Shapeways here.

The post Build Your Business with 3D Printing Jewelry Materials from Shapeways appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

Groen & Boothman agency for Design & Creative Direction was created in 2019, bringing together combined experience in industrial design, fine art and aeronautical engineering. The hybrid background of Hanno Groen and Joanna Boothman may seem like an unlikely combination to some, but that is certainly not the case within additive manufacturing where users employ a wide range of materials and technologies in art, fashion and jewelry, and quite commonly in critical aerospace applications too. 

On a mission to create extraordinary jewelry and usable art, the designers created a mutable archetype, essentially an animated design that assists in generating 3D structures, as well as merging classic form and function. Groen & Boothman are intent on connecting technology and biology in their recent Creatures Bracelet series (learn more from this case study), emphasizing the naturality of the bracelets, which are lightweight (around 20 grams—or .7 ounces), comfortable, and grasp the arm in a cuff-like fashion.

“Once you put it on your wrist, after about ten seconds you don’t even know it is there,” says Groen.

There is also a strong focus on making valuable items that are not only sumptuous and deeply comfortable, but will last for many years. In choosing Nylon 12 [Versatile Plastic] for 3D printing, the designers ensure the appropriate amount of strength and durability for their jewelry, which is also still light and tactile.

“3D printing gives us a chance to explore new avenues and get away from the mass production paradigm,” says Boothman, explaining that their work tends to be durable and long-lasting also because they create luxurious, high-quality pieces that encourage continued value by the consumer over the long-term in comparison to cheaper, mass-produced pieces that are often considered disposable.

The Groen & Boothman mission certainly meshes well within the world of 3D printing, a place where we embrace the technology that allows innovators around the world to reach for the stars in a realm of infinite options. For jewelry makers in particular, additive manufacturing offers affordable and fast low-volume production of designs that may not have been possible with conventional technology. Designers who may never had an ‘in’ before are also able to get a foot in the door. Designers can produce their creations without any need for capital as they rely on companies like Shapeways to invest in the hardware, software, and inventory of materials.

While creativity springs from the mind, 3D printing for consumer products brings those daydreams and sketches to life—and as designers Groen and Boothman point out, the spectacular innovations being fabricated would have indeed caused our design ancestors to marvel.

“In the real, tangible world, everything is always moving. Things are in constant movement, constantly growing and shifting. We wondered how to capture that essence and create a feeling of movement and in so doing even bring a new kind of emotional level to designed objects.”

The bracelets are currently being featured in a high-end Amsterdam boutique. Check out our expanded case study to discover how Groen & Boothman brought their Creatures bracelet series to life by printing with Shapeways.

The post 3D Printed Bracelet Series Based on Algorithms appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

How Jewelers Can Use 3D Printing

To create jewelry in gold, silver, brass or any other metal, jewelers typically need to cast their pieces. In traditional metal casting, a replica and mold of the finished piece would need to be created by hand before the casting process could begin. The use of 3D design can replace a bulk of this time and labor by printing highly precise prototypes, models and molds to facilitate the casting process. Instead of carving a model in wax by hand, the piece can be printed using a wax-like resin in a process called Lost-Wax printing and casting. The printed piece is then attached to a wax tree with other models by sprues and covered in plaster to create the mold. When the plaster mold is heated in an oven the wax melts and disappears. The attention to detail that is made possible by designing the piece using 3D design software means there will be less room for error and therefore time and costs become more efficient. 

Jewelry can also be printed in many other materials like versatile plastic, sandstone and ceramics. All of these materials, whether it be metal or plastic, can be made available to customers to choose from for any same piece. 

The Values of using 3D Printing Save Time and Costs

One of the greatest upsides to using 3D printing is that designers can spend more time focusing on their creative process while delegating precise and highly detailed execution. Creating a 3D design helps to eliminate laborious steps and costly materials while offering an equal or higher value in the final product.

Focus on Precision, Detail and Creativity: 3D design offers the opportunity for further attention to detail and precision than can be achieved by hand and by printing prototypes with cheaper materials it allows designers to edit and refine to create the best version of their piece they can without sacrificing as much effort.

Meet Customer Needs and Expand Clientele: 3D printing also opens new avenues through e-commerce, as well as the possibility to expand clientele by matching more specific customer needs on an order by order basis. Sizing can easily be altered, customers can choose from a range of materials, and pieces can be personalized as needed. In a world where customers look more and more for custom and one of a kind pieces and expect quick results, 3D printing gives smaller operations the ability to meet the demands of a larger clientele. This also has the potential to eliminate the need for displays or storage, as all pieces can be made to order and shipped directly to customers. 

Jewelers can now create more pieces at a lower cost and at an increasingly higher quality and manufacturing can become more flexible and less time consuming. This way more of an emphasis can be placed on the jeweler’s creative process as pressure is removed from production. 

How Jewelry Designers Can Shift Into 3D Printing

Any jewelry designer can easily transition into 3D design no matter their skill level due to the range in 3D design programs available. A program like Tinkercad caters to those just getting started, while programs like Rhinogold give more advanced tools for creating unique jewelry. Jewelry designers are able to integrate 3D printing in any capacity that makes the most sense to them. Skilled jewelers can 3D print their wax models and continue casting their pieces themselves while others can simply submit their design to Shapeways and see a finished product. No matter how designers choose to use this technology to boost their business, their unique creativity is always at the forefront of the process. 

Want to start creating your own unique jewelry with Shapeways? Upload your designs today!

The post Why Jewelry Retailers Are Using 3D Printing appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

Jewelry producers have been putting incredible results on our fingers, on our necks, and around our wrists. And within this powerhouse industry, 3D printing has already established a strong foothold.

So what can you expect when you implement 3D printing in jewelry making?

Why 3D Printing Might Be Good for Your Business

Traditional jewelry operations alone are no longer enough to meet the changing needs of evolving consumer tastes. Those who work with 3D printed jewelry are helping to respond to a shift in consumption, where creativity and personalization are valued above mass produced accessories.

1. Enhanced Creativity

One of the benefits of 3D printed jewelry is increased flexibility and creativity to try out new designs, patterns, and textures. Not only can you make larger designs, but you can also create multiple versions of an individual piece. This technology opens up a world of options when the constraints of traditional mold creation is removed.

2. Provide Personalization

3D printing allows for a higher level of connection with your clients, allowing you to better understand their needs and, in a matter of hours, enabling you to show renders of 3D models for instant feedback. This tactile experience brings the piece to the customer in real time, making the experience much more hands-on than merely seeing an image on a screen.

You can also easily add personal touches to 3D printed jewelry like engraving, or modify existing designs to the customer’s preference for a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

3. Streamline Processes

3D technology allows you to create custom jewelry quickly, often in a matter of days, which is a huge advantage over traditional jewelry making that can take weeks.

3D printing also allows the client a more hands-on approach to creating jewelry, as you can make multiple changes to get the piece just right, at minimal cost. 3D iterations let you check for accuracy and allow you to finalize every aspect before casting, giving the client exactly what they want.

4. Forget About Production

3D printing services like Shapeways take care of producing the jewelry once you create the 3D file, which greatly minimizes your worries over production.

5. Attention to Detail

Lastly, this technology allows you to attain a high level of detail in jewelry making when the same may not be achievable when pieces are crafted by hand.

This technology has carved a place for itself in the jewelry industry, and those who learn how to utilize it can take advantage in creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces of wearable art.

See Examples

Check out our interviews with jewelry business owners that use 3D printing to push creative limits. Meet Jorge Rojas, who creates “containers of emotion” in his jewelry collection marrying organic forms, shapes and elements; and Ola Shekhtman, whose love of architecture and travel inspired her to create her Cityscape Ring Collection.

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Grow Your Business

Learn how you can utilize 3D printing to expand the manufacturing capabilities of your business.

The post Why 3D Printing Might Be Good for Your Jewelry Business appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

Ola Shekhtman, 3D designer and owner of Wearable Cityscapes

Meet Ola Shekhtman

Ola Shekhtman is a 3D designer, jewelry maker, and avid traveler who uses 3D printing to realize her most worldly ambitions. After learning jewelry making in Saint Petersburg and 3D modeling in New York, Shekhtman now utilizes the freedom afforded to her by 3D printing to manufacture and sell her designs from anywhere on Earth with a Wi-Fi hookup. Since conceiving of her Cityscape collection, Shekhtman has called the U.S., Israel, and then Canada her home, and is currently based in Berlin, for now.

“Traveling is my powerful engine and my high quality fuel is feedback from my customers,” says Shekhtman. “Every day I receive messages with stories what Cityscape Rings mean for people, and I am very thankful to each of my customer who shares touching story with me. It gives my work great meaning.”

Shekhtman’s rings retail on Etsy, Shopify, and Uncommon Goods, as well as on the Shapeways Marketplace. Soon, Shekhtman hopes to have them retail in museums and galleries, and in brick and mortar shops.

Inspiration and Process

The Cityscape ring collection was born from Ola Shekhtman’s love of architecture and travel. At home after a trip to France, Shekhtman was searching for something special to keep the memories of her travels close at hand. She imagined wrapping the iconic landmarks of Paris around her finger and wearing them as jewelry. Finding nothing like her vision on the market, Shekhtman decided to try her hand at creating the keepsake herself.

Paris Ring, Made by Wearable Cityscapes

It took Shekhtman about six months to create her first Cityscape design, the Paris ring. She placed an order with Shapeways, and in two weeks, a prototype arrived at her desk. Delighted by the beauty and wearability of her design, and realizing that the concept she had created had potential to spark joy for people other than herself, Shekhtman posted photos of the Paris ring to social media. Within a couple of months she received her first custom order, from a client wanting a ring for his wife on their ten-year wedding anniversary, honoring Edinburgh, the city where they had wed. Says Shekhtman, “The process of 3D modeling the Edinburgh ring absorbed me for 3 weeks. But it was worth it. The client was delighted by the ring and I gained confidence that I can provide people with something to keep their warm memories about special events that happened in particular places.”

Edinburgh Ring, Made by Wearable Cityscapes

Now, it takes Shekhtman only 12 to 15 hours to 3D model a new ring. For each new city she renders in ring form, Shekhtman first studies the architecture and chooses the best buildings to model, based on their relevance to the city’s culture, and how well they will translate onto a ring. Then, she 3D models each building in careful proportion. For rings of different sizes, Shekhtman will add or remove buildings rather than stretch or squeeze the design so as to maintain maximum recognizability. Once she has her design fully rendered in 3D modeling software, she submits an order to Shapeways, and two weeks later she is able to try on her new design.

Shekhtman x Shapeways

Shekhtman is a trained goldsmith, and though she sometimes misses handcrafting her jewelry designs, she says of 3D printing, “3D gives me three kinds of freedom: 1. Geographic freedom. I can live where I want and travel all year long, and the only tool I need to have with me is my laptop. 2. Freedom of creativity. Details rule! Customers adore buildings with columns and tiny statues, which I create in 3D software. It is tricky to pierce windows [by hand] and 3D lets me make it easily. And, 3. Freedom of time – To make 1000 rings by hand I would spend nearly 100 years. Shapeways can produce this amount in 2-3 weeks. Using 3D modeling I can make a city once and it is available to order in any quantity, forever, which frees me up for new designs.”

Indeed, since the collection’s inception in 2015, Shekhtman has sold over 6,000 Cityscape Rings—an impossible achievement were she making each ring by hand. Of her shop on the Shapeways Marketplace, Shekhtman says, “It is my first passive income. All I need to do is upload models, photos of real products from different views, and detailed descriptions to help potential customers make a purchase.”

The post The World at Your Fingertips: Ola Shekhtman’s Cityscape Ring Collection appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

For Chic Minimalists

This geometric wrist cuff will stun and delight even the most discerning of dressers. Also available in a Cube shape!

Triangle Bracelet by Alminty3D

For Perfectionists and Pattern-Seekers

Help the visionary in your life find the pinnacle of perfection wherever they go with this Fibonacci Spiral Pendant. Add a chain for a complete necklace look.

Golden Phi Spiral Rectangular Grid Pendant by Sacred Tribe

For Art Collectors

Art lovers will adore this 3D head design inspired by MC Eschers’ Face Peel drawing.

Escheresque Face peeling by BAROBA’s Shop

Also available as earrings for artistic accessorizers!

Escherian Head Earring by jasolo

For Avocado Addicts

Celebrate the much-adored superfruit with these gorgeous avocado earrings, available in silver, gold, and polished brass.

Avocado earrings for the food lover by Health Nut

For Media Mavens

Help them take their shows on the go with this universal smartphone and tablet stand.

BendU – Universal Mobile Stand by Urbano Rodriguez´s Shop

For Modern Gentlemen of Taste

This sophisticated plastic bowtie adds a futuristic and fun element to any fancy ‘fit.

Bow Tie by monocircus

For Brilliant Mathematicians

Pi Pen Holder by Cinemo

For Driven Drummers

Help them turn their destroyed drumstick collection into an art piece they can be proud of with this wall mount for broken sticks. Rock on.

The Stick Clip v1.0- Broken Drum Sticks Become Art by A Place for You to Buy Yourself Things

For Caffeine Fiends

Even when there’s no coffee in sight, this caffeine molecule pendant will help them remember what’s important in life. Perfect for use as a necklace (add a chain) or keychain.

Caffeine Molecule Necklace / Keychain by moleculestore

For Style Icons

Sometimes it’s more important to be seen than to see.

DEAL WITH IT Shades by Raw Legend Collaborations

For Potterheads

Gift this beautiful Deathly Hallows pendant to the avid Harry Potter Fan in your life—they’ll know what it means. Complete the look with a chain.

Deathly Hallows Necklace by Fanatic Alley

For Rare Gem Collectors

This human-designed and 3D printed gem echoes the real formation of the desert rose crystal, rendered in rainbow hues. A statement piece for any crystal collection.

Rainbow Desert Rose – imaginary rock collection by Seedling Design

Browse the Shapeways Marketplace  for more unique statement gifts.

The post 12 More Gifts for the Sophisticated People In Your Life appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

For Your Beloved

You’d bring them the moon if you could, so why don’t you?

Moon lamp by VFXguy’s desktop toys

For Modish Musicians

Gift this gorgeous treble clef pendant to the diligent and debonair musician in your life.

Classic Treble Clef Pendant by Uveros

For The Whiz Kid

Perfect for a brilliant kid with an interest in science, or for anyone who loves a party trick, The Wave is a balanced syphon which transfers water between glasses using the principles of physics.

Wave by OliveBird

For Workaholics and Desk Dwellers

Know someone who lives at their desk? Gift them Robbie the Robot Planter so they’ll always have a friend nearby. Grab a tiny succulent to plant inside and you have a two-in-one gift that brings a bit of greenery and freshness to their workspace.

Robbie the Robot Planter by XYZ Workshop

For Stylish Statement-Makers

This incredible botanical choker necklace is a unique piece that the most stylish and bold fashionista on your list will absolutely love.

Botanical Choker Statement Necklace by Fabparlor

For World Travelers

Remind the globetrotter in your life of the places they’ve been or have yet to go with this stunning London cityscape ring.

London Ring – Best Seller Gift! by Wearable Cityscapes

For Stargazers

Tell your starry sweetie to keep shining bright and looking up to the sky with a constellation pendant.

Ursa Minor Necklace by Layers By Design

We also love this celestial circles pendant, which echoes the shape of planetary orbits, and we think the stargazer in your life will, too!

Celestial Circles by Layers By Design

Treat the Chef

Support your favorite home chef’s culinary creativity with this clever little egg cup for unshelled eggs (keep the shell on for food safety).

birdsnest-eggcup by studiogijs

For Your Gym Buddy

More Kettlebell! Give your fitness pal this kettlebell keychain to keep them inspired and celebrate their hard work.

Crossfit Kettlebell Weight Pendant and Keychain by Amathing3D

For Puzzlemasters

Brain games are perfect for holiday family-time fun! This 3D puzzle comes with interlocking pieces which fit together in hundreds of different ways to provide endless new challenges.

“SOMA’s Revenge” – Interlocking Puzzle Cube by Ethereal Maze Puzzles

Gag Gifts for Gigglers

Perfect for pranksters of all ages, this catapult gift takes “spitballing” to a whole new level.

Catapult by Jeewel

For Inspired Creatives – give the gift of Shapeways

You can’t go wrong with a Shapeways giftcard that inspires and encourages creative minds to make their own 3D innovations.

Shapeways digital gift card

Find all these and much more at the Shapeways Marketplace.

The post 12 Gifts for 12 Passionate Characters in Your Life appeared first on Shapeways Blog.

Now, with 4 years of 3D design experience under his belt, Rojas is utilizing the state-of-the-art 3D printing services offered by Shapeways to create a new, ultramodern collection which marries organic forms, shapes and elements with cutting-edge technologies to create unique, evocative pieces of wearable art.

The New Collection

In his new collection, Rojas utilizes strategic void space in his designs to create sculptural “containers of emotion” within each piece. To Rojas, a piece of jewelry’s true value lies in the emotion it is imbued with, both by the creator during the design process, and by the wearer when it becomes a part of their life story. According to Rojas, when a jewel is gifted, it then takes on an emotion, which becomes a memory, and is rendered an intrinsic part of the jewel.

The dynamic forms and fundamental structures which comprise each piece of this collection echo the essential building blocks of our universe, and indeed, through this collection Rojas is recreating and refining his own creative universe, with a series of offerings which hold space for the emotions of those who would use his pieces to celebrate and commemorate life.

Why Rojas Uses 3D Printing

Using 3D printing as a means of production offers many benefits to Rojas, including the opportunity to create realistic visual renderings of ideas quickly and effectively, before producing the designs in more precious and costly materials. As a designer and project manager who offers customized design services to clients from all over the world to help them realize their creative visions, this is very helpful to ensure structural quality and customer satisfaction. With 3D printing as their production method, Rojas and his clients also have the freedom to create jewelry from more novel materials, such as splintered black steel and laser-welded polymers.

“For the creative, it is a tool that multiplies the development options, making possible designs and production of pieces that before were technically impossible, or that they required an impossible investment of time,” explains Rojas. “I think there is a new way to enjoy jewelry, more personal and free, and that’s why I’m using the new technologies of 3D design and printing, applying all my knowledge of the trade and my creative freedom to offer original, fresh and very current [pieces].”

*Updated March 15, 2019.

The post Jorge Rojas’ New Jewelry Collection is Meant To Be Gifted appeared first on Shapeways Blog.