Over the last few years, 3D printing has been providing a whole new generation of designers with the ability to manufacture products on demand and at low cost. From precious metals to nylon, we are now being introduced to a refreshing new landscape of unique and complex designs, some of which wouldn’t have been possible without the technology.
Taking inspiration from Asian cultures, African tribes, memories and dreams, one artist who has done just that is Italian jewellery designer Francesca Paolin. Designed in Adobe and then important to Maya, Francesca has created a range of bold 3D prints in natural Polyamide with 3D printing from i.materialise.
The colours, patterns and cultural inspirations fuse together to reflect the designer’s journeys, dreams and playfulness. Here are our top five picks from the collection.
1. Lace Necklace
Francesca says her love for design came from her mother who used to handcraft and knit embroideries adopted from traditional Venetian techniques. This necklace takes inspiration from lace to produce a feminine statement piece available in a range of vibrant colours.
2. Cuff Earrings
Feeling a little brave? These striking earrings bring together the artist’s passion for tribal design with the unique possibilities of 3D printing to create these intricate, feather-like shapes. Speaking on the i.materialise blog, Francesca said; “This technology lets me explore new frontiers that I couldn’t image before.”
3. Lace Gold Plated Bracelet
Though most pieces in Francesca’s collections make use of daring colour, this lace style bracelet is a little more special. Marrying handcrafting traditions with cutting edge technology, this one-of-a-kind piece is plated with gold after 3D printing by i.materialise to create a lightweight cuff.
4. Nostalgia Brooch
The 'Nostalgia' collection is reminiscent of the random nature of fabric scraps and this brooch is 3D printed in warm and wintry colours to combine local tradition with the components from far distant countries. Francesca says it's about “shaping modern objects of ancient memories”.
5. Opposites Necklace
The 'Opposites' range is influenced by dreams and the cultural fashion of Nepal, Latin America and Africa. After experimenting with spray paint, Francesca turned to fabric dyes to colour her 3D printed pieces, she says; "I love colours and I wanted to find new colour combinations".
If you want to see more of Francesca's bold and beautiful creations, check out the i.materialise blog or visit her website.
