We acquired our first (and short-lived 2nd) 3-D printers through Kickstarter projects years ago, moved onto kits shortly after, and in the years since our first- we have learned an awful lot about using them. If you ever need a reminder that human ingenuity is vast- this is the hobby for you. I am so happy to be a humble part of this group.
My little stacking rainbow toys. https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2954167
My design skills are still very much in the growth stage- but, I’ve been able to put together some simple toys (my rainbow stackers: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2954167 and https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2381407 a massive block set (one day I’ll get pictures), lots of tools for my clay work (cutters, stamps, molds, texture rollers) and I love sharing them- because I’ve found so many useful things other people have designed!
Our 3rd grader has brought home several requests from classmates, one of the more challenging ones was Dog Man (brainchild of Dav Pilkey of Captain Underpants- and Dog Man- fame)- just his head, with a hanging loop for a neck chain. Interestingly, I couldn’t find any evidence that someone had created a print file for such a fantastic item yet (ha!)- so I whipped one (two, because I wasn’t sure he’d like the original orientation of the hanging loop) up. It’s been a lot of fun to see what 9yos can dream up!
We’ve printed shelf pegs when one in a pantry (that held up our heavy dog food container) popped out and disappeared- the 3-D printed ones *never* pop out of place. We’ve printed parts for printers. We’ve printed tools and toys and containers. But, this- is absolutely my favorite- a 16″ rigid heddle loom.
Being a crocheter and a knitter and a seamstress (and someone who just really likes to dye things- like yarn), I appreciate all the fiber crafts. One day in December, I decided to add weaver to my list- and I started printing parts. We (because *I* couldn’t get some of these very tight clearances to mesh alone) built it last week, and I had my first scarf 3 days later. My second scarf only took 2 days.
And then they just kept coming.
SiaC Restful Rainbow Warp, Om Opal Weft
SiaC Windchimes, Warp and Weft
Coboo Pink Warp, SiaC Unique Unicorn Weft
I’ve woven a bunch of cotton washcloths and little towels, too, but, they made it into use before I could grab photos. I plan to weave some fabric for a bag, next- so many things to do besides scarves (but, they are addictive).
So, a few new hobbies since I last posted. Who knows what I’ll be doing on my next! 😉
