In the DRC Industrial Design and Creative Industry Base in Beijing, a small group of curious customers gathered outside a room, peering through the glass. “Is the machine really that small?†someone asked. “Look at that sole—it’s amazing!†another exclaimed. “Is it solid or hollow inside?†they wondered.
At 2:00 PM, the door finally opened, and everyone rushed in, eager to see what lay behind the glass. This was the first 3D printing experience museum in China, where everything on display—from lampshades and shoes to toys and portraits—was created by a single machine: the 3D printer.
Though many had never seen such a device before, most had encountered similar ideas in movies. In *Star Trek*, a character ordered a glass of water from a machine; in *Cloud Atlas*, food was printed; and in *The Fifth Element*, a full human body was reconstructed using a 3D printer. This is 3D printing.
Though it may seem futuristic, 3D printing is actually a technology with roots dating back over a century. It originated from early photographic sculpture and geomorphic molding techniques, and was officially developed in the 1980s as "rapid prototyping." The process is simple: the printer uses materials like liquid or powder and builds objects layer by layer based on digital data.
At the museum, visitors could see detailed 3D-printed portraits with realistic skin tones and textures. These were not crafted by hand but produced by a machine. Shao Moyu, the museum’s manager, explained that customers would stand in front of a 3D scanner, which captured their entire body in 360 degrees. That data was then used to create a 3D model, which the printer brought to life.
Despite the high cost and long production time, dozens of people visit the museum each month to try this cutting-edge technology. One visitor, Meng Dechao, joked, “If we have this tech, why take wedding photos? Just print our faces!â€
3D printing has been around for decades, but its popularity is only now taking off. According to Shao, interest has grown rapidly in the past year, and every Wednesday becomes a busy day for demonstrations. The global impact of 3D printing is also growing fast. In 2012, *Global Science* magazine listed “3D printing†among the top ten innovations that would shape the future.
Can you print a pet? Some people have already started asking this question. Designer Song Ripple once responded to a fan who lost their dog: “It’s theoretically possible. If you provide a good photo, the result can be very realistic.â€
Song Ripple discovered 3D printing during her university years, when she was struggling to create complex designs. She found that 3D printing allowed her to bring even the most intricate ideas to life. “No matter how complicated the form, it can be done,†she said.
While 3D printing is still expensive and slow, its potential is vast. Many people are now buying home printers to experiment with their own ideas. However, some remain skeptical. “Why spend so much on a machine and materials just to make toys?†one customer asked.
But Song Ripple sees it as a revolution. “It allows for subversive creations,†she said. “It has advantages, but also limitations—high cost, limited materials, and technical challenges.â€
Despite these issues, 3D printing is already changing industries. Car manufacturers use it to create prototypes, medical companies produce prosthetics, and museums restore ancient artifacts. Even in film, 3D printing has played a key role.
Experts debate whether 3D printing will spark a new industrial revolution, but one thing is clear: it’s here to stay. As more people explore its possibilities, the future seems closer than ever.
Shao Moyu often gets asked about the future of 3D printing. His answer is always the same: “I don’t know.†But others are already thinking ahead. A recent news report mentioned “4D printing,†suggesting that the future might hold even more surprises.
Visitors to the museum discuss how to apply 3D printing in business—some want to make personalized gifts, others dream of custom wedding items. Everyone is focused on personalization, wondering about cost, speed, and ease of use.
Niu Jiayue, another enthusiast, believes 3D printing is more than just a tool—it's a way to solve manufacturing problems. “Its ultimate goal is to let anyone create anything without worrying about who makes it,†he said.
He warned that without research and development, countries could fall behind in the global value chain. “We need to push forward with innovation,†he added.
No matter the purpose, 3D printing is growing fast. Song Ripple believes it will soon become part of everyday life. “In a few years, it will be everywhere,†she said.
Some worry that 3D printing might replace traditional craftsmanship, but Song Ripple disagrees. “They serve different needs. 3D printing is better for small batches and customization.â€
Niu Jiayue imagines a future where you can print your clothes, your Christmas tree, or even your next meal. “Imagine waking up to a custom-designed outfit or a unique holiday decoration,†he said.
As the technology continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: 3D printing is reshaping the world—and it’s just getting started.
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