4 ms·

It seems like a modern printer could cheat and go from a 3D printed original to a plaster (or refactory cement or green sand) negative to a type metal copy of t

• katyLitt 10y ago
  I'm not sure if this is possible. You need to replicate the entire process, not just the final results. I mean the time it takes to print may vary, but the result probably would look aesthetically the same but structural different.
• Nevermark 10y ago
  Or they could just 3D print metal. Or really cheat and just print on paper. Or use a VR toolkit to create the experience of something printed on paper that never was. :) Interesting how completely different skills have all been about creating something you read, from chiseling rock to simulated light rays.
  • 13of40 10y ago
    You missed "wire in the brain that makes you feel sure you've just seen something printed". But seriously, I think someone who's casting movable type in their baking sheets probably isn't interested in virtualizing the end product.
    • gbergel 10y ago
      Post author (and noob cliche printer) here. I am, in fact, interested in virtualizing the end product, for tasks ranging from closer analysis, virtual restoration, computer vision work (see links in the post and elsewhere on my site) and conceivably, for reproduction by a 3d printer or industrial prototyper. However, we do already have cheap, robust and high-quality methods of making a printing surface from a printed impression or artwork, notably photo-etching in metal or polymer. So I am not sure what 3d printing would give you apart from the satisfaction of closing the circuit.. but it's on my list of things to try, alongside stereotyping with papier mache.