Gareth Neal and the New Raw develop 3D printing style based on crafts

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In the article “Gareth Neal and the New Raw develop 3D printing style based on crafts,” British designer Gareth Neal and Dutch studio The New Raw have collaborated to create a new style of 3D printing that is based on traditional crafts. Using thrice-recycled plastic and a unique printing method that involves printing in loops rather than layers, they have developed a series of objects called Digitally Woven. This innovative approach not only allows for imperfections in the final product, reducing waste, but it also creates strong and lightweight structures using half the normal material. Neal and The New Raw aim to capture craft techniques such as willow work and knitting within their 3D-printed designs. The result is a collection of visually striking objects, including a pink chair called Loopy and three vessels resembling woven baskets. With their technique, they hope to push the boundaries of additive manufacturing and demonstrate the importance of collaboration between artists and manufacturers in introducing new approaches to traditional methods.

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Gareth Neal and the New Raw’s collaboration

In a collaboration between British designer Gareth Neal and Dutch studio The New Raw, a new style of 3D printing has been developed. The collaboration aimed to explore traditional craft techniques and reduce waste through the use of three-times recycled plastic. The resulting collection, called Digitally Woven, features objects printed in loops rather than layers.

The technique behind Digitally Woven

The technique used in Digitally Woven differs from traditional 3D printing methods. Instead of adding filament in layers to build an object, the printing robot extrudes thicker cords of material in a looped pattern. This method allows for the creation of interlocking loops, giving the structures strength and allowing for the use of three-times recycled plastic.

The inspiration for this new technique came from handmade craft. The print lines for the machine were based on ones drawn by hand, resulting in a nuanced look that captures the natural movement and aesthetic of crafting tools.

Results and benefits of the new style

The Digitally Woven collection has several advantages over traditional 3D printing. Firstly, the structures created through the looping technique are structurally strong while using only half the normal amount of material. This makes the objects lightweight and reduces waste. Secondly, the use of three-times recycled plastic allows for the utilization of a material that is typically considered too unstable for 3D printing.

By combining traditional craft techniques with 3D printing, Neal and The New Raw have captured the essence of craft in a new medium. The resulting objects are not only visually appealing but also environmentally conscious.

Learning process and funding

For Gareth Neal, the collaboration with The New Raw and the development of the Digitally Woven collection represented a steep learning curve. As a designer who primarily works with wood and has limited experience with additive manufacturing and plastic, Neal had to adapt and expand his skillset to embrace this new style of 3D printing.

The project was made possible through funding from a European Union grant. This financial support enabled Neal and The New Raw to experiment and develop their new technique without the constraints of limited resources.

Expansion and refinement of Digitally Woven

Looking to the future, Gareth Neal plans to expand and refine the range of products in the Digitally Woven collection. One of the key features of this new style of 3D printing is its customization options. The Loopy chair, for example, can be made to order in any color and can utilize plastic from any waste stream. This opens up endless possibilities for personalization and sustainability.

By using plastic from any waste stream, Neal and The New Raw are able to create objects that not only embody their craft-inspired aesthetic but also contribute to the circular economy by reducing plastic waste.

Gareth Neal’s previous works

Before the collaboration with The New Raw, Gareth Neal had established himself as a designer known for referencing and incorporating traditional crafts in his work. Some notable examples of his previous projects include picnic furniture made with marquetry and a CNC-machined but 1780s-inspired chest of drawers that is now part of the collection of the V&A Museum.

Neal’s background and expertise in traditional craft techniques made him an ideal collaborator for The New Raw, as he brought a unique perspective and understanding of the intersection between craft and design.

The New Raw’s other projects

The New Raw, on the other hand, is a studio that specializes in robotic manufacturing with plastic waste. One of their notable projects is the Ermis chair, a monobloc seat made from their own 3D printing waste. This project demonstrates their commitment to innovation and sustainability in the field of design.

The collaboration between Gareth Neal and The New Raw not only combines their respective expertise but also pushes the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of 3D printing and traditional craft techniques.

Photography credits

The photography for the Digitally Woven collection was done by James Champion. His skill in capturing the intricate details and textures of the objects brings the collection to life and showcases the craftsmanship that went into its creation.