Sculpt in clay, add stickers, and get a precise 3D print

What is it about?

Computer-based design tools for 3D printing are challenging to use. We built a system that allows users to get more hands-on in their designs. With Makers' Marks, a user sculpts an object using clay or other materials. Then, they add stickers with labels like "button" or "hinge" that describe functions they want in their final object. We capture the object using a 3D scanner. Then, the system analyzes the 3D scan to find those "function stickers" and adds in the mounts for the requested functions. When the object is printed, the user can simply snap in button modules, screw in hinges, or add any other components they requested.

Featured Image

Photo by Xiaole Tao on Unsplash

Photo by Xiaole Tao on Unsplash

Why is it important?

3D printers are more and more widely available, and are appearing in maker spaces, schools, workplaces, and even homes across the world. Unfortunately, designing objects for 3D printing is still very challenging, and requires specialized knowledge of software. We aim to make the process of designing functional objects easier by letting people make things in a way that's more hands-on: using clay and stickers.