Printed Dimensions: How new Tools expand old Craftsmanship

3D printing is revolutionizing craftsmanship by precisely complementing established techniques. Additive manufacturing – the technical term for layer-by-layer material build-up – enables the creation of complex components that are conventionally impossible. According to the VDMA (German Engineering Federation) , 44% of German industrial companies with over 100 employees already use this technology. Traditional blacksmiths use Markforged printers for carbon fiber-reinforced tools, while joineries produce precise fasteners with Formlabs resin printers.

Computer-aided layered construction complements traditional craftsmanship with new design possibilities. Stratasys FDM systems and Ultimaker printers are transforming workflows from carpentry to metalworking without replacing traditional craftsmanship. The following sections invite you to delve a little deeper into this fascinating topic.

What should craft businesses and artists who want to use a 3D printer pay attention to?

Craft businesses and artists the best 3D printers should first define their intended use and the appropriate materials (e.g., PLA, resin, metal ). It's important to select a printer with a sufficiently high resolution and a build volume that meets typical project requirements. Ease of use, software compatibility (e.g., with CAD programs), and maintenance requirements also play a significant role.

Anyone wanting to produce precise prototypes or individual pieces should pay attention to printing accuracy and material diversity. Legal aspects such as copyright, product liability, and CE marking for products ready for sale must also be considered. Last but not least, thorough training or familiarization with the technology is crucial to fully exploiting the potential of 3D printing.

A look at the advantages of additive manufacturing

3D printing is revolutionizing cost structures in craft businesses through drastic efficiency gains. The VDMA study "Additive Manufacturing 2023" shows that 44% of German industrial companies with over 100 employees are already using additive manufacturing processes.

Back in 2017, Professor John Hart from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology an introduction to the technology of additive manufacturing:

Mechanical Engineering Magazine informed us about the evolution in recent years and the expansion through artificial intelligence :

And two years ago, the Financial Times investigated the key role of 3D printing technologies in the US manufacturing industry:

Today, the following points are among the most significant advantages of this technology:

• Material waste is reduced by 70% through layered construction
• Eliminating expensive injection molds saves €15,000–€50,000 per project
• Production cycles shortened from weeks to hours
• Local manufacturing reduces CO₂ emissions by 40%.

The cost-effectiveness is particularly evident in small production runs. Material efficiency increases considerably, as only the necessary material is used – in contrast to machining processes such as milling or turning, which often waste 80% as chips.

Another important topic: 3D printers in the private sector

3D printing is increasingly finding its way into private workshops and studios – and for good reason: More and more artists are using the technology to transform creative ideas into tangible objects.

Whether sculptures , jewelry designs , intricately detailed miniatures , or personalized home accessories – the possibilities are virtually limitless. 3D printing allows for unprecedented freedom in shaping and material selection, even for small production runs. Especially for private individuals, it offers easy access to prototyping and custom manufacturing.

Thanks to user-friendly devices and freely available templates, the technology is becoming increasingly affordable and intuitive to use. PLA as a printing material because it is biodegradable and easy to process. This makes 3D printing a creative tool that enables artistic projects in more and more homes – individual, sustainable, and innovative.

3D printed products can help to enhance your home

3D printed products offer countless possibilities for your home . From custom-made shelf brackets and designer vases to unique lampshades – a 3D printer allows you to precisely implement creative interior design ideas.

Those looking for individual touches can design decorative elements themselves or use relevant online platforms. Practical everyday items like cable holders, doorstops, or kitchen organizers can also be printed with minimal effort. The ability to choose colors, shapes, and materials allows for a particularly personal living environment.

Thanks to modern plug-and-play printers, getting started is easier than ever before. This makes 3D printing a creative tool for anyone who wants to redesign their surroundings with clever ideas and craftsmanship.

Future prospects: The skilled trades in digital transformation

Craftsmanship is at the beginning of a digital transformation that intelligently complements traditional methods. By 2030, 3D printing, as well as AI-generated art , will be as commonplace a tool as the drill or circular saw is today.

The following development trends are likely to play a significant role in the future:

• Multi-material printing for complex assemblies
• Large format printers for construction applications up to 1m³
• Hybrid manufacturing, in which additive and CNC processes are combined in one machine.

And in the private sector, a lot is likely to change in the coming years with regard to 3D printing.

The key to success lies in the balance between tradition and innovation. Craft businesses that understand new technologies as a complement to their core competencies will undoubtedly be the winners of digital transformation and will sustainably strengthen their market position.