Hey everyone,
Great work - I have enjoyed looking through the Shapeways site at all your clever designs, photographs and stories. I have done my best to match the high standard with my own designs and shop. This is my first forum post and although I have known about Shapeways for just six months I was waiting till I had finished Stage One of my SplyneWinder project before introducing myself. My name is John Reeves Taylor and this is my story.
When I sat down in front of my computer in Dec 2011 as I do almost every day, it started out just like any other day, emails, spreadsheets, web browsing, accounts, phone calls all those things that keep a business operating. I'm an export consultant and I help my clients access $ from the Federal Govt. here in Oz. What was different on that day and why I am introducing myself to you all, is because on that day I discovered ShapeWays 3D print online marketplace and just thought that was about the best idea ever.
My interest in design was instantly revitalized
( I studied Industrial Design along time ago and earned my degree from the University of South Australia) I haven't practiced design for a long time. In those days computers were barely available on a desktop and the idea of 3D printing was quite literally in its infancy. When I was at design school 3D printing was the future and here it is and it is very cool.
I was inspired by all the different designs that everyone in the SW community has created, by the opportunity to make and sell, by the licensing model offered by Shapeways and I desired "having a go" myself. My SplyneWinder range of rolling toys is imbued with that desire and created with that inspiration.
I just love the idea of creating a design uploading the file and having Shapeways print in my material of choice and I even enjoy the wait for UPS to deliver my 3d print, it is exciting
(I usually hate waiting for anything). Yes they even deliver to Australia. (Costs $20 and that hurts.)
In the process I have learnt to use some 3D software learnt about mesh and stl files and new materials, blogs and online promotion techniques
(I was encouraged and motivated by Duann's seemingly never ending suggestions of how to present promote and benefit from the Shapeways opportunity) I've taken photos, made movies, uploaded and downloaded and generally had a fun time and I am looking forward to lots more. I have opened a shop played with my kinetic 3D prints and sold some product. All good!
I have received great support from the Shapeways Service Team along the way and couldn't have done it without their help. Thanks to Ralph, Maartje, Kevin, Christel, Joost, Michon, Mitchell and Gary. Especially Mitchell for his patience with my endless questions about how to do stuff and helping when things went wrong or I didn't understand.
If you have the time ...
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<a href="https://https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Idrh1hfqpHA" target="_blank">
Contact me at
<a href="mailto:info@splynewinder.com" target="_blank"></a>
Cheers everyone,
John Reeves Taylor