Digital artifacts have taken the Internet by storm, becoming some of the most desired assets. So, it’s worthless to mention that blockchain technology is far more than cryptocurrencies, electronic wallets, and Metaverse. The term NFT can be found on almost every deadline nowadays, which is proof of its popularity. Artists and investors are lured by what these tokens promise – verified rights to a one-of-a-kind virtual item. The variety of NFTs and the areas in which they have emerged are unbelievable – from photography and video game items to real estate and event tickets, there is something for everyone. It’s no wonder that people have turned to this form of asset, and if you’re craving the same thing, we can only encourage you. Nonetheless, don’t forget about the cryptocurrencies found on platforms like Binance. Investing in coins is also profitable, so if you want to buy Bitcoin apart from NFTs, feel free to diversify your holdings.
What’s so special about NFTs is that their use cases go beyond digital artworks. One interesting real-world use case is in 3D printing, which, as complicated as it may sound, will be clarified in the following. So, let’s find out how it is possible for virtual items to turn into physical objects.
The birth of the ‘phygital’
Physical and digital have merged into what is called ‘phygital’- a hybrid kind of artifact. These items exist in an odd space between artisan creation and mass production. It seems that purchasers of particular phygital tokens receive the standard digital goods and also the right to assemble them into physical, touchable objects, also known as the right to have RNDR. This process appears to be taking the virtual character of the non-fungible tokens and translating it into the real world of collectibles and art. This is undoubtedly something else, which is hard to believe. But here we are, in 2023, where technology makes the impossible possible. NFT holders are able to turn their favorite piece of digital art into a touchable object, which is presumed to have the same value and cachet as their virtual equivalents.
NFTs meet 3D printing
Due to 3D printing, NFTs can be brought out of the digital world into the physical world. 3D printing allows digital files to be shared via NFT platforms, making it possible for purchasers to 3D print and own them in real life. Most NFTs at the moment are based on 2D technology, but once the next-gen artworks become popularized, digital nomads can enjoy the magic of phygital items.
Moreover, 3D printing uses the same technology underlying cryptocurrency and NFTs to track who possesses the design and give designers a chance to reach a wider community of collectors and creators. Plus, designers reap the financial benefits of their work, and this happens whenever their art is sold. Numerous artists sell their pieces on digital marketplaces like OpenSea and Rarible as non-fungible tokens, some of the most notable ones being Danit Peleg and Ioan Florea. The former is, in fact, one of the pioneers of 3D-printed fashion. She has explained how people who buy NFTs from her are about to gain access to a folder giving them comprehensive information on 3D printing, as well as guidelines on how to bring the individual pieces together and turn them into a unique finished garment. The fact that purchasers can 3D print the digital goods themselves is another upside of Peleg’s artwork. She also gives those interested the chance to choose the color and material for their garment, which takes customization to the next level. Not to mention that the bought digital artifact could take another form based on the season: a T-shirt could turn into a jumper.
Ioan Florea also bases its work on open-source technologies. He believes that 3D-printed items are a form of art, although they aren’t recognized as such. More about Ioan Florea’s works will be discussed in the following.
Ioan Florea NFTs
Florea was noticed in the NFT 3D printing in 2013 when he 3D printed a Gran Torino vehicle. In 2014 he went even further and displayed a 3D-printed Mobile House. Ioan Florea is considered the first to release a 3D-printed NFT art collection, allowing thus those interested to purchase his items, which have various complex 3D printable designs. The artist has pushed the envelope of technology and is now reaping the fruits of his labor, being recognized as one of the most prominent figures in this area.
Like Danit Peleg, Ioan Florea gives his purchasers the 3D file with unlocked content and assembling instructions. He believes the upside of this kind of art lies in the buyers’ ability to own a physical object above all. Hence, in the event of a dramatic price fluctuation, people still have a physical art piece to touch.
Does 3D printing create new value for NFTs?
As previously mentioned, fashion designers benefit from 3D printing to sell their unique pieces to enthusiasts. But that’s just a part of the community that can use the technology. Musical artists, for example, can deliver copies of their live performances, making them exclusive for purchasers. NFTs are sold along with an identification code for 3D-printed items, which further allow buyers to print their physical products.
Future markets for 3D printed NFTs
Against an uncertain economy and the backdrop of high inflation, NFTs have grown considerably in popularity. This form of art represents a new form of expression that artists use to earn income. And they do so not only through the items themselves but also through the ideas for these items. Personalization is at the heart of this job, and we all know that this is a service that makes a business special.
3D printing NFTs could be a flourishing business in an era of omnipresent visuals, as it has already entered the entertainment and arts sector. It shouldn’t be surprising to see it in industries like healthcare.
Does NFT 3D printing sound fascinating? Go and see for yourself what this market has to offer already!