I started playing around with 3D printing when I purchased the Silhouette Alta Plus in 2020. I have to admit I had no idea what I was doing. 😂

My first project was a hand-lettered necklace for the Google creative app Tangi. Sidenote: Rest in peace, Tangi! It was fun while it lasted.

Here’s the QR code if you want to see that video.

My first 3d Printed project!

I honestly didn’t know much about 3D printing, but I wanted to explore it without investing in a giant machine.

The Silhouette AltaPlus was a good “try it out” option for me because it offered a smaller printing surface, and I found a bundle online that included five filament rolls. It was a steal, for sure!

For the project, I created a necklace using my hand lettering from Procreate. You can make anything as long as it’s under 5 inches.

Fast forwarding to November 2023, I finally dusted off my Alta after driving by a “Call to Artist” billboard.

The brief called for creative artists who use fun and funky mediums to create art.

My brain began creating unique shapes in my sketchbook, and suddenly, I had a light bulb moment. 💡

What if I used a 3D printer for one of these ideas?!

And that’s exactly what I did.

I moved my sketches into Adobe Illustrator, then TinkerCad, and lastly to the Alta Plus for printing.

Sidenote: I only had seven days to complete the artwork for my submission, so my brain was going. 😂

⏰ Update: I wasn’t selected for the residency, but I’m proud of myself for stepped out and applying. Driving past that call to artist sign, I felt like it was sent from the Lord to reinvigorate my creativity that had been dormant for seven months.

Dear friend, if you’re looking for an encouraging sign as you walk on your creative path, I want to tell you to keep pushing forward. Even if you have to take moments to rest, do it, but then get back up again.

Your answer could be closer than you think.

As for me, I will be applying for another emerging artist grant this month, so when you think of me, send a prayer up! I will greatly appreciate it.

Before I go, I want to share some process videos from this project!

I hope it inspires you to try 3D printing at your local library or invest in a machine that will fit your creative needs.

If you have any additional questions about the 3D printing process, feel free to type them in the comment section below.

Until next time, whatever you do, make it with zeal! -Dani✨