It’s one of the most revolutionary technologies to emerge in decades- the ability to create pretty much anything, complete with moving parts, based on a computer image.

The concept sounds like it has been plucked straight from the realms of science fiction, but 3D printing is very much a reality, and the possibilities are pretty much endless. As has recently been shown by our new client, Magic Candy, which made national headlines across print, digital and amongst influencers, as the world’s first company to make 3D printed jelly sweets. We can attest to how delicious they are, and this got us thinking about the other amazing things these machines are making. Take a look below for some of the most surprising.
Treats

Magic Candy will forever be remembered in a similar breath to other boundary pushers like Buzz Aldrin and Tim Berners-Lee. Maybe. Anyway, these jelly sweets are delicious, and suitable for both vegetarians and vegans, unlike those new fivers, and we’re delighted to be working alongside the firm.
Unborn children

One hot trends amongst expectant parents right now is taking home a 3D-scan photo of their yet-to-be-delivered baby, but one Japanese firm, Fasotec, has taken that idea one step further. ‘Shape of An Angel’ is basically a white-resin model of what the little mite would look like if it weren’t a flat picture.
Bikinis

The N12 bikini is the world’s first ready-to-wear 3D printed garment, and comprises tiny nylon disks that can be hooked together to form the item, which will set people back $300 if they want all the bits in all the right places. Not necessarily set for mainstream adoption just yet, it still caused a stir.
Meat

It sounds as appealing as gorging on joke plastic cheese, maybe even less so. Nevertheless, Modern Meadow is currently experimenting with ways to produce ‘bioprinted’ meat, which could be used to help alleviate the growing demand for meat products and in turn combat global warming.
Homes
Examples of 3D printed buildings have been cropping up regularly in the last few years, but arguably this Chinese solution to any housing crisis is most impressive. A complete home of concrete and construction waste, made for just under £3,000, with a maximum of 10 produced per day.
Organs

Alarming as it sounds, Organovo has started 3D printing living human tissue, with the pinnacle thus far a fully functioning liver. Scientists predict this field will advance dramatically in the coming years, meaning it might not be too long until we’re able to replace parts of our bodies when necessary.
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