Ideas For An Original 3D Gift

Only a few years ago, the idea of digitally conceiving and printing an object in the comfort of your own home would certainly have seemed like the stuff of a particularly implausible science fiction film. The increasingly rapid march of technology has, however, ensured that that previously undreamt-of scenario has not only become reality, but also been made accessible to society as a whole, through the creation and miniaturisation of three-dimensional printers and their subsequent decrease in cost.

In fact, nowadays, it is nothing particularly out of the norm to create and print a 3D gift using nothing but your computer, a compatible printer and the adequate software. There is no longer even the need to involve a middleman, as equipment previously exclusive to print shops and graphic designers can now easily be obtained in the consumer market.

Unblocking creativity

This globalisation of these technologies does, of course, have its fair share of advantages, not the least of which is the unblocking of creativity it enables. Graphic design enthusiasts who would previously dream up the perfect 3D gift but not be able to realise it due to technological limitations can now do so, resulting in a growing number of delightful, custom printed objects being offered.

This increase in popularity does, of course, also have a downside: the more widespread something becomes, the more unoriginal and standardized it tends to become. Fortunately, the creative nature of a 3D gift – as well as its very purpose for existing – may ensure that this process is much slower in that particular field. If, however, you want to stay ahead of the pack, there are still a few ideas you can draw inspiration from and tweak to make your own.

Endless possibilities

Examples of these are almost as endless as the possibilities offered by the printing techniques themselves. 3D gift ideas range from the more mundane and utilitarian – iPhone covers, chess sets, cookie cutters – to the more ludicrous and science-fiction (robot arms), through the somewhat unusual (shoelaces), and the flat-out cool (arcade machines, model planes or pencil sharpeners). Regardless of what approach you decide to take, any of these items will, in and of themselves, impress their recipients, especially if you explain that you made them yourself. Adding a few personal tweaks so that the items become even more unique will only work even further in your favour, guaranteeing a good reception for your creation.

The next time you are stuck for a present for a friend or relative, then, consider making them one. Alternatively, if you do not have the adequate equipment, take your design to an expert and ask them to do it for you.

George Berdichevsky is the Founder of 3Design Center, which designs image files to be used in engraving machines for use in trophies and 3D gift items. His team of talented artists can create bespoke images suitable for 3D trophies from any idea or image. Visit the website for more information.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.