MAXIMISING the power of 3D printing, a bold new start-up company is using everything from abstract art to Colchester’s Jumbo Tower for inspiration.
Roxana, 24, and Alex Anghelina, 29, the duo behind Essence 3D and Design, shrunk the 35 metre tall landmark for a client and live broadcast the remarkable process on their Facebook page.
Nearly 5,000 viewers tuned in to see the model become a 3D print - a process which in total took about seven hours.
Mr Anghelina said: “With Jumbo, I wanted to create something relatable to everyone and attract some attention to show what can be done as it might inspire others.
“The process usually starts with a 3D model then you need to prepare that for 3D printing.
“We were lucky enough someone had already modelled Jumbo for us which sped up the process.”
Print makers - Roxana and Alex Anghelina
He added: “Doing this helps me think outside of the box and find solutions to common problems.
“For example, if I’ve bought a cup without a saucer, I can make one.
“Or if someone wants to recreate something no longer here, we can design and make it for them.
“It’s definitely empowering.”
The husband and wife team launched their business a month ago and specialise in making bespoke items from biodegradable plastic, home accessories and even historic pieces such as a vintage car or family heirloom.
Mr Anghelina, who is originally from Romania, graduated five years ago and has since worked with architectural firms in Essex and London.
His wife, Roxana, studied marketing and social media at the University of Essex - skills which complemented Alex’s entrepreneurial vision.
Iconic - Arif Sethi's model of Jumbo became a 3D print
He said: “When I worked for a design company, I’d provide customers with 3D prints of their new house alongside the drawings. It was helpful for people to get hold of their house in their hands and is a brilliant feeling.
“I began in architecture but have always designed knick-knacks for the home and functional prints so moving forward I just decided to start a business.”
He added: “This type of process gives me the satisfaction a lot quicker.
“It’s the joy of seeing something coming from a computer and being able to hold it in my hand that I find exciting.
“Anyone can become a 3D printer but it’s not a plug and play process, it does need time, but it’s just whether someone has the will to learn.”
Visit https://essence3dprint.com/
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