I think I have worn down my lust for 3D printing. I have had a load of fun learning the ropes of this new tool and I will certainly continue using it. The printer is just a tool

My cooling passion is, just by itself 3D printing isn’t much of a craft. A tool for making something 3 dimensional out of plastic is what it is all about. Needing it made from plastic is something else.

For example, I see as lot effort in making plastic 3D jewelry. I am not quite understanding why. I guess because someone can. The drawings are fine, but the material (plastic?) is crazy. “Look at the plastic ring I made.” isn’t something that interests me to brag.

The hot spell has broken here in Texas. I have gone back to working in my studio. As I write this I have two carved wood chests I have been working on, applying finish. I built them from scratch using oak, Woodworking is a real craft.

I have also readied three flasks containing carved wax masters, all prepared for the lost wax casting process. Again, that is a real craft as well as a process.

Honestly, 3D printing doesn’t rate up there with these old school crafts. Especially if one is only printing other peoples designs. One great thing, this new process is developing a bunch of people becoming very skilled at producing the CAD files. This skill is a wonderful ability and can be applied in many other pursuits. Drawings are the heart of every creation. Like woodworking and jewelry making.

I always do at least a detailed sketch for my own work. But CAD and especially 3D CAD is a huge advantage in any manufacturing. So much so that isn’t an option. It is a requirement.

I think now is the time when 3D printing machines have become appliances and will be purchased for use at the grade school level. I believe some printer machine makers are headed for that goal. I predict at least a small surge of new sales in lower cost printers for the holiday purchases this fall. The newest toy maker.

My advice to all the 3D hobby makers and anyone who has influence on a school age enthusiast, is to encourage original design and thinking. Make sure they are building a skill with 3D scanning and 3D CAD drawing. These are the skills that will prove valuable in life. Running the machine is like calling your table saw your hobby. The 3D printer is just a tool.

Plugging other peoples drawings into a print machine is entertainment. The hobby and education is in making the drawings. That skill will be a great addition to whatever engineering or creative career path is taken.