University of Sheffield/BACKSTAGE:UK
3D printed instruments have gone on tour for the first time with UK band, Klaxons. The indie trio made a tongue in cheek announcement earlier this year with Hobs Studio announcing they were to go on tour with 3D printed instruments. Now it seems the ruse has become a reality as the band have in fact kicked off their final tour with 3D printed guitars.
With the help of 3D-printed guitar company Customuse and 3D printing experts from the University of Sheffield, the band set out to produce one of a kind custom lead and bass guitars complete with Klaxons’ insignia for their last headline shows.
Customuse was set up by University of Sheffield graduates Mahdi Hosseini, Sophie Findlay and Justas Cernas after they discovered that 3D printing might be the answer to creating otherwise costly personalised guitars.
University of Sheffield/BACKSTAGE:UK
Mahdi Hosseini said: “When we set up Customuse just a few months ago, we never imagined two of our guitars would be on the road with a band like Klaxons so soon. But having a guitar made to your individual design isn’t just for rock stars. With 3D printing, amazing designs can be created while the price tag remains realistic.”
With expertise from renowned 3D printing expert Professor Neil Hopkinson, Customuse used guitars printed at the University of Sheffield to showcase the concept to potential investors and clients in the run-up to their crowdfunding campaign, which will launch in December.
Right now the instruments are touring across the UK and Europe after the band were completely blown away when playing the custom instruments for the first time.
Professor Neil Hopkinson said: “When Klaxons announced their tour would be 3D printed, they didn’t seem to really believe it could happen, but for guitars at least it’s a very achievable goal. 3D printing is the ideal technology to create personalised instruments of this kind, as it allows you to have an intricate design with a lightweight body while retaining the necessary strength to ensure the guitar will work well.”
