Why this Blog?

Ceramics, as a material, has come to 3D printing.  But, it faces a problem.

Traditional ceramics artists know the full workflow required from creating a clay shape to taking a finished piece out of a kiln.  But, for the most part, the reason why they enjoy the clay arts is that they enjoy the tactile aspects of working with their hands on clay.  Thus, it's rare to find a clay artist that has proficiency with a 3D design software program... which is NOT a tactile activity.

On the other hand, there is a huge world of people that have learned one or more 3D design programs that certainly could design and print in ceramics.  But, their issues in adopting the new material revolve around the fact that they have absolutely no experience in the workflow required to move from a green clay state to a fully finished and fired final result.

3D Printing ceramics requires a mix of skills and technical know-how that has not been required from either either group of people.

This blog will endeavor to be a help to both camps.

For the traditional clay artist it is hoped that we can offer insight and tutorials into easy to learn 3D design applications and guidance in how to incorporate 3D printing into their traditional approach.  It's really NOT an either/or proposition.  3D printing can COMPLEMENT traditional methods of creating clay objects.

For those already designing and printing plastic parts on their 3D printers who wish they could use their skills for income, it is hoped that with a little guidance in the ceramics workflow, they will come to see that ceramic objects have intrinsic values that has potential for tangible income.

I have held plastic 3D printed parts and I have held 3D printed ceramic parts and there is no question as to which has the most perceived value!  It's not even close.

Here is my first 3D printed ceramic object that I ordered from Kwambio's parts-on-demand service.

Kwambio Ceramics Print

I'll have more to say about this piece in my next blog entry.  For now, it's enough to say that this exudes value that none of the plastic or powder/binder printers we use exhibit.  It's stunning in person.  You can see the original design on Sketchfab.

While I recognize that there are FDM printers that produce ceramic objects, for the most part we are going to focus on SLA and powder-based 3D ceramics printers.  The Formlabs Form 2 is the best representative of the SLA category and, the promised Kwambio Ceramo Zero Max is the best representative in the powder-based category.

Over time, I anticipate that most of the focus will turn to the powder-based alternative.  But, there is no way to know for sure until the Kwambio is actually delivered.  The best I can do for now is to work with Form 2 SLA to demonstrate the ceramics workflow until an alternative is actually shipped.

I do plan to go to Kwambio's office in the U.S. as soon as a Kwambio Ceramo Zero Max is available to see in person.  Hopefully, that will be in July.  In the meantime there is a LOT to learn and a LOT of fun to be had!  Stay tuned!