The Craft Behind the Print

Why 3D Printing Is a Better Way to Buy

At Ryan Does 3D, we’re not just printing products, we’re printing possibilities. Every item we create is thoughtfully designed, carefully made, and proudly different from what you’d find on the mass market. We've put together a quick breakdown on what 3D printing is, why its cool and better for the environment.

So, what is 3D Printing?

3D printing is a cutting-edge manufacturing process where objects are built layer by layer from the ground up. Using digital models, we transform plant-based PLA filament into detailed, durable, and functional pieces—from quirky home decor to unique keyrings and bookish gifts.

Unlike injection-moulded or mass-produced plastic goods, our products are made individually, with precision and intention, using state-of-the-art 3D printers. Each one has its own story and character—no factories, no bulk, no compromise.

Why We Use PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PLA is a biodegradable plastic made from natural, renewable sources like cornstarch or sugarcane. It’s one of the most sustainable filaments available and the perfect choice for conscious making and conscious buying.

Benefits of PLA:

• 🌱 Plant-Based & Biodegradable – Unlike traditional plastics, PLA breaks down in industrial composting conditions and doesn’t rely on fossil fuels.

• 🧼 Non-Toxic & Food Safe – It’s one of the safest plastics to have around the home.

• 💪 Strong & Lightweight – Our prints are sturdy and long-lasting without being heavy or brittle.

• 🎨 Beautiful Finish – PLA comes in a wide range of colours and offers a smooth, clean texture ideal for aesthetic items and gifts.

The 3D Printing Process – From File to Finish

We believe in transparency, so here’s how each piece is brought to life:

1. Design or Model

   We start with a 3D model—either custom-designed or professionally sourced. We often tweak and refine models for better detail or usability.

2. Slicing

   The digital model is sliced into layers using specialist software. This tells the printer exactly how to build the item from the bottom up.

3. Printing

   Using top-tier machines like the Bambu Lab A1 and X1 Carbon, we produce crisp, high-resolution prints with minimal waste and maximum detail.

4. Hand Finishing

   Every print is checked by hand. We clean up any support material, sand rough spots (if needed), and assemble or add features to bring the item to life.

5. Packaging

   Each product is packed with care—often using recycled or recyclable materials—to make sure it arrives safely and sustainably.

Why Choose 3D Over Mass Production?

Mass-produced products are often cheap, generic, and made with profit—not people or the planet—in mind.

Our prints, on the other hand, are:

• ✅ Made to order or in small, considered batches

• ✅ Customisable and often not found anywhere else

• ✅ Created with care and checked by human hands, not conveyor belts

• ✅ Sustainably made with minimal waste

• ✅ Designed to last, not designed to break

Durability & Quality

3D printed PLA products are surprisingly strong, especially when printed with high-quality settings like we use. While they’re not indestructible (like anything plastic, they can warp under intense heat or pressure), they are ideal for everyday use and display.

We use cutting-edge Bambu Lab printers known for their:

• ⚙️ Precision – 0.2mm layer height standard

• 🧠 Smart features – AI error detection, automatic calibration

• 🌀 Speed and reliability – So we can print efficiently without sacrificing quality

Is PLA Safe?

Yes! PLA is:

• Low-emission and low-odour

• Non-toxic once printed

• Safe to use in homes, near kids, and even for decorative kitchen items

  (Though we don’t recommend using it for high-heat or dishwasher use.)

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us—it’s in the DNA of how we work.

We aim to:

• Use plant-based materials

• Minimise waste with precise prints and smart supports

• Reuse packaging where possible

• Educate and empower people to buy better, not more

Want to Know More?

If you have questions about how something’s made or want to request a custom item, we’re always happy to chat.

Send us a message or visit our FAQ page to learn more about our process.