I design these sculptural vases using 3D CAD software, and print them on a 3D printer in a variety of materials. I can work with you to create a custom one in the shape and color you like. This page is meant to give you an idea of what’s possible — as well as to show some pieces which might still be available.
These are meant to hold flower arrangements but not, generally speaking, to contain water directly. Rather, they are built to contain a waterproof liner or other container. They won’t dissolve if they get wet, but prolonged exposure to liquid may cause deterioration or grow mold — much as if you were using a wooden container. There are fully waterproof materials I can print these out of, but that gives less choice of color and texture.
This blue vase my cat is considering knocking over, holds a 3″ florist tube.
Different materials give different colors, texture, shine, or special attributes. Where there are stripes of different color, these are done either by switching materials midway through, or printing separate parts which are later attached. It’s also possible to get an ombre effect by using material designed to yield that result, but I have no examples here.
This image gallery includes some things I’ve printed, and others I just modeled, all using software I’ve written (not all the same program). Each piece is a unique design — I don’t plan to make multiple copies of anything, unless it’s for one person who wants (let’s say) to own the same shape in different colors, or to replace a broken item.
Bud vase “millet”.
This is printed in three pieces to get the different colored layers. It contains a 3″ bud tube to hold water and stems. Available at Lafayette Art Association.
Bud vase “quark”
Printed in a shiny material that reflects different colors depending on angle (green, purple, copper). The stripe midway up is shiny copper. Accommodates a standard 3″ bud tube. Available at Lafayette Art Association.
“Marla” vase
I haven’t printed this design yet — contact me if you want one like it. It’s intended to hold a round cup and should probably be used with a frog.
“Vera” vase
Has a flat floor to accommodate a long, shallow bowl (not included). Key for scale.
Playing around…
…to give an idea of possible variations.
“Todd” enclosure
Business card for scale.
“Dennis” bud vase
Not yet printed — US quarter for scale.
“Ferris” container
Has a suspended flat floor to accommodate a shallow container (not supplied).
“Roseanne” enclosure
Gumball 1 (concept)
A geometric shape inspired by the mathematical principles behind natural forms.
Gumball sculpture
This modular shape was inspired by a “gum ball” seed pod. It has a removable top and could contain a small bowl for flower arrangements that poke through the holes, or dried arrangements.
Twisty texture vase
Imagine it, and I’ll try to make it real.
Ikebana vase
The vase was designed with custom software and printed from rose gold silk PLA.
“Sandy” bud vase
Experimenting with a new multi-color 3D printer. About 6″ tall.
“Blink” bud vase
Experimenting with different textures, smooth on the “struts” and rough on the “facets”. The difference is fairly subtle.
