It doesn't matter what you want to print, you can do it all with the 3D printing methods of today, cant you? Well, yes. But it is generally limited to plastic, meaning you cant really do it all. In addition, the cost of plastic-based 3D printers are consistently lowering. This is definitely a good thing, but what about other options out there? I know I'm not the only one thinking of printing something other than plastic! As a result of artisans exploring new methods, a valuable way to 3D manufacture metal has come to to the table, making printing plastic sound entry-level. It is both exciting and surprisingly affordable. How does under a thousand dollars sound to you?

 
Some are beginning to call this "the maker culture". If so, a man named David Hartkop is definitely one of them. He got this notion in the motion and has successfully built the first-ever Mini Metal Maker, and wants to price it for just $500. Hartkop "believes the new invention will fit right into the maker culture, filling an obvious void". In it's name, it prints metal clay in 3D form from a digital file just as any conventional 3D printer would. The use of precious metal clays (PMC) allows for low-cost printing as well as opening up opportunities for what the clays can be used for. For engineers, designers and artists alike, this is a game changer for everyone. The machine extrudes fine threads of the clay that has been blended into paste. Metal clay types vary from sterling silver, gold or bronze, and everything in between. The clay is thick enough that when laid down, it maintains it's shape, but at the same time liquid enough to mold into your chosen shape. The product is fired in a pottery kiln to remove all the clay's organic binders. As a result, you see shiny, highly pure shaped metal. Not the most convenient method but definitely the most affordable.

 
From the videos and photos shown, it is clear to see the product is far from perfect. Some say maybe its not important for metal to have crazy perfect resolution. Well the thing is, the printer isn't there yet. People are quick to judge aren't they? The molds look a bit messy and not professionally done. Yes this is true. But it is no secret to Harktop that he is merely scratching the surface with the Mini Metal Maker, and has a while to go before the shapes look more detailed and clean. This is why he is seeking $10,000 on Indiegogo to finish production of his printer.


Speaking of, the Full Mini Maker 3D printer kit (containing all the hardware, electronics, etc) needed to assemble the printer is priced at $750. If you want the fully assembled Mini Maker with a preloaded tube of copper metal clay it is priced at $1000. So, I am not sure where the $500 price tag is coming from. Looks like a few screws need to be put in place to get this thing going but there is an impressive amount of potential and Harktop has laid out his ambitious next steps on his website. Don't let my words discourage you. The Mini Metal Metal is already fully capable of producing things people need around the house, like broken parts; or things they want like toys, jewelry and gifts. But with time, we are all hoping to see more refined pieces. Heck, in 5 years, I bet we will all laugh at the beginning of 3D metal printing.