3D printing is one of the most interesting technological developments in recent years. This innovative technology can be used in almost any aspect of life. The versatility of a 3D printer allows for an incredibly diverse amount of results. From small pieces to large projects, 3D printing is capable of producing it all. In short, 3D printing is the process of creating a physical item from a digital design. It requires a special 3D printer and some type of 3D printing software compatible with the printer. For a more comprehensive look, check out this video on what 3D printing is.
Access to 3D printers is becoming easier to find every year. Many libraries, schools and community centers have 3D printers now. If you happen to be a college student, your campus almost certainly has a 3D printer. However, it is also becoming much easier to find your own personal 3D printer. The price range for a 3D printer can range from $100 to several thousands of dollars. Depending on size and quality, the price range can vary greatly.
3D Printing Bathroom Faucets
As mentioned above, 3D printers are capable of producing just about anything. One of the most interesting ways to do this is through creating practical home items. In a bathroom, 3D printed bathroom faucets are some of the most unique fixtures to incorporate. In fact, some companies are already dipping their toes into this type of production. Several companies are now offering several different types of 3D printed bathroom faucets to the public, just like traditionally manufactured faucets.
One of the best things about 3D printed bathroom faucets is the design possibilities. Because 3D printers can bring almost any design to life, the possibilities are quite vast. Companies and individuals should and do take advantage of this. Many beautiful, abstract and unique faucets are created because of this. In addition, it is great for personal projects or other projects that need to put an emphasis on artistic style.
Can You 3D Print Your Own Bathroom Faucet?
In short, you can absolutely 3D print your own bathroom faucet. However, there are several things that you need to take into consideration before jumping into the process. First of all, you definitely need an understanding of the 3D printing software required. Luckily there are various tutorials online for free. In addition, there are many different types of software available for you to utilize. These softwares can be free or purchasable, depending on what you want. Of course, the software that costs money will likely include some benefits that free versions do not offer.
Once you understand the software, you need to get a good grasp on the physical aspect. This is a relatively easy process, because the machine does essentially all the work. You need to load the printer with an appropriate material used for the 3D printing itself. This usually includes materials such as plastics, bio-materials and composites. These can be easily purchased at an appropriate location or online. Specifically for a bathroom faucet, you should use some type of material that is safe and durable for bathroom fixtures that come in frequent contact with water. For some examples, check out this short article.
The Best 3D Faucets on the Market Today
There are several 3D printed bathroom faucets on the market today. This is good for two main reasons. First of all, they are beautifully designed in only a way that 3D printers can do. Second of all, it saves you the time and effort of having to do it yourself. Here are some of the best 3D faucets on the market today that highlight the importance of bathroom technology.
Shadowbrook Bathroom 3D Faucet - American Standard
The Shadowbrook Bathroom 3D Faucet is one of the most strikingly unique faucets on this list. The elegant design resembles a frozen flow of metal at the spout. This creates an incredibly unique design. It is 3D printed with metal using an additive laser sintering process on metal powder. In addition, it is hand finished to polish off the process with care. Because this faucet is so unique and carefully crafted, it carries a big price tag of $18,360.
Grid Faucet - Kallista
For a minimalist take on the 3D printed faucet, the Grid Faucet is the primary subject. The incredibly sleek and modern design is perfect for any high end bathroom design. The use of negative space is something that almost no other faucet can utilize. This 3D printed bathroom faucet is far from traditional, as it takes on a cubic design with a slender frame.
Allure Brilliant Icon 3D - Grohe
3D printing allows for some amazing build methods for faucets. The Allure Brilliant Icon 3D was made by stacking 4,700 layers of steel on top of each other, each 0.006 millimeters thick. The sleek and futuristic look of this faucet makes it the perfect fit for any modern bathroom design. The unique design is incredibly attractive and even mind-bending. The look of this faucet is one of the most amazing on the market.
Grid Water Tap - Edelschmied
This faucet is 3D printed using stainless steel. The frame-like design of the Grid Water Tap is a unique design that is quite attractive. Although the faucet is quite slim, the water flow is more than sufficient. The black color makes it a great fit for a modern design, especially with the glossy look. The faucet also features a single lever for operation.
One-A Faucet - Webert
This unique faucet is 3D printed in a ladder-like design that can’t be found anywhere else. The single lever operation adds to the minimalist style as well. The One-A Faucet is one of the most attractive kitchen faucets if you are looking to spice up the area with a sleek fixture. It has a very tall profile, which makes it stand out as a great focal point in any design.
Vibrato Bathroom 3D Faucet - DXV
The Vibrato Bathroom 3D Faucet puts a focus on a balance between elegance and functionality. The woven metal design stands out wonderfully in this specific model. In addition, it brings a traditional faucet design into the area. The water seemingly looks like it is coming from thin air, as the woven design expertly and efficiently allows the water to flow through the body of the faucet.Popular 3D Printed Bathroom Accessories to Consider
Aside from kitchen and bathroom faucets, many other 3D printed bathroom accessories can be printed. As long as proper blueprints are used, essentially any bathroom accessory can be created. Of course, some will be easier to create than others. However, each accessory will need to be printed a bit differently. For example, 3D printed bathroom hardware like a towel bar can be a quick and easy process. Of course, this will depend on the intricacy of the design.
Other bathroom 3D printed bathroom accessories, such as soap dispensers, will be harder to create on your own. This is due to the more complicated functionality. As long as all of the pieces fit together and function well together, there shouldn’t be a problem. The most common 3D printed bathroom accessories are relatively simple. 3D printed bathroom accessories such as towel bars, hooks, soap dishes, shelves and others are easy to create and relatively inexpensive. For more ideas, check out this article on some of the most useful 3D printed bathroom accessories.
How 3D Printing Opens Up New Design Possibilities
It is no secret that 3D printing is incredibly versatile. As you have seen in some of the examples above, design elements can be wonderfully experimented with. Beautiful bathroom faucets can be created through innovation and experience. As long as a blueprint is created correctly, almost any design can be put into a physical object. If you are new to 3D printing, consider starting out with simpler 3D printed bathroom accessories, such as soap dishes.
Perhaps the best thing about the versatility of a 3D printer is the creative potential it brings with it. Even if you are not versed in 3D printing blueprints, many different designs are available regardless. Blueprints can be found online for purchase, or even for free sometimes. If you have a bit more experience, you can create some of these designs yourself. This is especially valuable if you plan on incorporating various different accessories into your design.
How Companies can Utilize 3D Printing
The versatility of a 3D printer is also affecting how companies can approach this industry. For example, now that 3D printers are more accessible, companies can make a one-time purchase and include one in their production. Companies will now be able to create products order by order. This will allow each customer to send in a blueprint for printing done by professionals. In addition, companies will not have to keep as many different items in stock. This offers benefits to both sides, making 3D printing a very attractive feature of the future of the bathroom industry. Of course, 3D printing is also breaking through in other industries as well.
Are 3D Printed Products Possible for All Products?
3D printing can be used in essentially all aspects of life. Due to this, almost any industry can take advantage of the creativity and versatility possible with its inclusion. Many different products can be 3D printed at this point due to how precise a 3D printer is. Consider products as simple as cutlery or dishes. Beautifully designed pieces of flatware and similar products can be 3D printed to create beautifully designed pieces. On a bigger scale, larger pieces of furniture can also be 3D printed. Tables, chairs and other similar items can be printed to add uniqueness to any living space.
Although smaller items are very commonly 3D printed, larger things can be printed as well. For example, even houses can be 3D printed on a larger scale. Of course, this is not a common practice for homes around the country. However, the fact that it is even possible is a sign that it can become a standard occurrence. For a bit more information and some examples, check out this video on the current state of 3D printing houses.
3D Printed Bathroom Decor
Aside from your bathroom fixtures and accessories, bathroom decor is also something to take advantage of. For example, bathroom decor can be essentially anything you want it to be. For simple bathroom decor, you can include 3D printed bathroom hardware, decorative shelves or even picture frames. If you want to get more intricate, consider some custom designed decor. This can be done by yourself if you have enough experience. If not, it is easy to find somebody to do it for you. 3D printed bathroom decor allows you to express creativity to make your bathroom design a uniquely comfortable space.
Understanding 3D Printing Software
Although it may seem simple to some, 3D printing can come off as a complicated process. In some areas, this is true. However, it turns out to be relatively simple once you get an understanding of it. To 3D print something, you do not need to know the ins and outs of every little detail. As long as you understand the basics of 3D printing software, you will be able to 3D print anything you want as long as your printer is capable of it. If you plan on incorporating 3D printed items that you personally make, it is important to understand the software. Below are some of the most popular 3D printing softwares.
Autodesk Fusion 360
Many see this as the best, all-around 3D printing softwares. It is capable of producing incredibly intricate mechanical parts. Due to this, it can print essentially anything you need. In addition, the software is powerful and efficient, allowing you to collaborate with different designers. This software costs $60 a month on a monthly plan.
Autodesk AutoCAD
This software is generally seen as one of the best high-end 3D printing softwares. It is usually used for professional use, making it very useful for larger items and detailed projects. Autodesk AutoCAD is one of the best softwares due to the multitude of tools it offers customers. This software is priced at $1449 a year, with a free version available as well.
Ultimaker Cura
This is an excellent software for new users. It boasts a great toolset for beginners to 3D printing. In addition, it is easy to navigate and extremely affordable. If you are new to 3D printing, this is absolutely a software that you should consider. It isn’t as fast as other high-end softwares, but it is a great starting point. The Ultimaker Cura 3D printing software is completely free.
TinkerCAD
TinkerCAD is great because it is a web based 3D printing software. This is amazing because it doesn’t require a download to your actual computer. 3D printing can be started instantly with just a single click. Tutorials are offered as well, making this another great software for beginners. In addition, it is free to use.
Why 3D Printing Should be Considered in a Bathroom
Bathrooms can benefit from various different 3D printed items. Because 3D printing is so versatile, many possibilities present themselves. This is one of the best opportunities for you to express creativity in a bathroom design as well. Once you get a good grasp on 3D printing, you will be able to create custom designs that make a bathroom design stand out beautifully. Because visual design is so important to a bathroom, this can be one of your greatest tools.
In addition to the visual design, practicality is also incredibly important in a bathroom. Luckily 3D printers can utilize incredibly durable materials, perfect for a bathroom. 3D printers can print metal items, which is a necessity for a healthy bathroom space. It is important to ensure the printer you use can handle the necessary materials needed for printing these items. Not all printers are the same, so ensure the one you are using is appropriate for the situation.
In Conclusion
3D printing has a lot to offer a bathroom, as well as various other aspects of life. Although it is in its early stages, it is still an incredibly versatile process. If you think your bathroom needs a unique element of design, 3D printing is definitely something to look into. In general, 3D printing is slowly growing in industries everywhere. Consider implementing some 3D printed bathroom faucets or 3D printed bathroom hardware in your bathroom for a unique design that stands out from the rest.