Unicorn by Igneous London

cults3d

To create a commercially successful product from a desktop 3D printer using cutting-edge materials, one must overcome several challenges. With little experience in 3D printing and a tight four-week deadline to reach the market, the task seems daunting. However, Igneous London, a 3D printing collection, was successfully launched on sale at the Barbican by late 2013. The collection's name was inspired by the similarities between current 3D printing processes and igneous rock formations, which are formed through the layering-up of cooling magma (intrusive and extrusive) after an eruption. The constraints of this challenge were numerous: the result had to be both creative and experimental while remaining small and simple enough for easy and cost-effective printing. Moreover, it needed to command a premium price. By creating jewelry designs, we learned how to utilize the machine to its full potential. Early adoption of materials like Laybrick and Laywood not only fit our brand but also sparked our curiosity as materials scientists. This gave us an opportunity to experiment with surface finish, texture, and color. Our collection sold out within a few weeks at the Barbican Centre in London.