The guide to 3D clay printing:
From design to final product
3D clay printing combines ancient craftsmanship with modern technology. Through layer-by-layer construction, a unique artwork is created, from digital design to fired object. Here, you can explore the steps of this process.
Step 1: Design of the object
It all starts with an idea that is developed in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. Here, you create a digital model of the object, including patterns, textures, and shapes. This design is saved as an STL file, so the 3D printer can read it. For complex designs, you can use parametric design, which allows you to easily adjust dimensions and details.
Step 2: Preparing the clay
The clay is prepared to be smoothly extruded through the printer’s nozzle. This requires the perfect plasticity, ensuring that the clay is both firm and flexible enough. An important aspect of this step is achieving a homogeneous mixture without air bubbles, as these could lead to cracks later on during the printing or firing process.
Step 3: Printing the object
The printer builds the object layer by layer, a process known as additive manufacturing. Slicer software translates the digital design into instructions for the printer. The quality of the final result is determined by the resolution, or the thickness of the print layers. The thinner the layers, the more detailed the object will be.
Step 4: Drying the object
After printing, the object needs to dry. In this phase, the clay reaches the leather-hard stage, where it is firm enough to be worked on but not fully dry. During the drying process, shrinkage occurs; the clay becomes slightly smaller as moisture evaporates. A controlled drying environment is crucial to prevent cracking or deformation.
Step 5: First firing
The first firing, the bisque firing, takes place in a ceramic kiln at temperatures between 900 and 1000°C. This process hardens the clay and prepares the object for glazing. During sintering, the clay particles permanently bond together, giving the object a porous yet sturdy structure.
Step 6: Glazing the object
Glazing gives the object color, texture, and a protective layer. A glaze layer can be applied by dipping, spraying, or painting. Transparent glaze allows the underlying structure and details to show through, while opaque glaze provides a covering, even finish.
Step 7: Second firing
The second firing, also known as the glaze firing, takes place at temperatures up to 1300°C. During this process, the glaze layer melts and forms a glass-like coating. This makes the object waterproof and gives it a final finish.
A unique method with endless possibilities
3D clay printing is a fascinating process that brings together technology and craftsmanship. Step into the world of 3D clay printing and discover how a digital design is transformed into a unique, tangible piece of art!