3-D Printing…What in the World?

In the world of “traditional” printing – cards, brochures, flyers, magazines, are considered one dimensional because of their inherent “flatness.” Now with the advent of better pigments, more streamlined printing and the demand for more eye catching displays, a new trend is coming along in the printing industry…3D.

What is considered three dimensional printing?  Those cute birthday cards that cost $10 at Target, musical Valentine’s Day cards that cost a mint at Hallmark, scrapbooking kits at Michael’s…you know what we’re talking about.

So what is behind this increase in popularity of whimsical three dimensional printing? Well, a previous blog entry talked about die-cutting and how shapes can be cut out of all sorts of materials – leather, plastic, metal, fabric – which helps in the world of cutesy and cuddling printing, i.e. those greetings cards we can’t resist. However, there is a tool that has been created in recent years that has helped the three dimensional look expand into the home market…

The Cricut.

This machine can range in price from a couple of hundred of dollars to close to a grand; call it a die cutting machine for the home…however, it is transforming the printing business as more people can complete some of their own projects when they want and how they want. The Cricut utilizes interchangeable die cuts in an array of shapes and images, all you change is the material that is cut – the tool is helping craft interesting items at home.

Hardcore craft people know what this machine is!

However, for your larger, more intricate printing needs…don’t forget your neighborhood printer…like us!