Remember back in the day when computers and software for desktop publishing first came into the hands of the general public? In the late 1980’s, said general public decided that it could do perfectly well in creating its own prints, flyers, brochures and whatnot. Over-the-top industrial design might as well be accompanied by one horrible printed layout after another – all by budding DIY graphic designers.
Are we going to see history repeating itself with the advent of the affordable 3D printer? With Swedish online electronics store Conrad now offering a 3D printer for a mere 6,999 SEK, the chances of this happening are substantial. With a 3D printer, there is no need for large-scale production, rendering factories obsolete – letting you take that cute little drawing of something faintly resembling a horse that your two-year-old daughter made, scan it and 3D print it into a fab gift for your neighbour’s birthday. Or print a fully functional replica of a firearm. Or toys of your own design for the kids, or why not a protective case for your iPhone? In fact, you could theoretically print a new house for yourself. The only limit is your own imagination.
To encourage discussion on the subject, Design Museum London is currently hosting an exhibition on the subject of this “new industrial revolution”, The Future is Here aims to show us just how new production methods will impact our life. When a 3D printer can be had for next to nothing, the former boundaries between designers, factories and consumers are sure to become somewhat blurred. Like in the 1980’s, the market may become flooded – at least for a while – with goods from the hands of self-proclaimed designers. Some might even get lucky and find their way into some kind of hall of fame. However, chances are that (hopefully) the general public, if not the DIY designers, will realize that some things are best left to those in the know. And by all means, bring me a bottle of wine instead of a puerile 3D printed teddy bear next time you come over.
Photography: Design Museum London
