Lots of 3D printing platform/marketplaces pop up on a regular basis, but few cause the kind of buzz that Kwambio did when it officially launched last year. Like other marketplaces, customers could shop from a wide variety of 3D printable items, but what made Kwambio unique was that users could tweak and personalize any of the files they purchased. This company describes its platform as “a one-of-a-kind commission between the designer and the customer.” At the time of the platform’s launch, Kwambio was also developing its own innovative 3D printer, the Unique One.
Now Kwambio has officially re-launched its site, adding additional designers, a new website design, and a laser focus on quality. What do you think of this new development? Discuss in the Kwambio Re-Launches 3D Platform forum over at 3DPB.com.
Director of Marketing Kate Kolambet describes the new Kwambio as a “highly curated marketplace”:
“You’ll see that KWAMBIO is treating 3-D printing as a tool and have really moved away from the standard aesthetic (plastic, resolution marks, everything looks like a DNA Helix….) usually tied to 3-D printing…We offer designer products – jewelry & homewares – made-on-demand. All products can be 3D printed in high-quality metals and ceramics. We offer various customization options and a choice of materials.”
Several well-established designers are making their Kwambio debuts. These include mixed-media artists Jim Drain and Katie Stout, design duo Chen Chen and Kai Williams, and design studios byAMT and Mir Ett. Returning artists, who were part of Kwambio’s initial lineup, include Colleen and Eric, Andrew Sack, Angela Eberhardt and Hart Marlow, and Daniel Michalik. A long list of additional designers is soon to be added.
Perhaps the most significant addition, however, is Kwambio’s new Creative Director, Chad Philips. The former Creative Director of online design marketplace Fab.com brings significant experience to the company, including high-level positions at Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum and Kidrobot. He has worked as a designer and curator in many fields, and he sees his new position at Kwambio as an opportunity to emphasize the creative possibilities of 3D printing.
“We want to change the paradigm of 3D printing,” he said. “A lot of people aren’t intrigued by 3D printing because it’s the same math equations spit out of a plastic machine. We are pushing the envelope on what people think of when they think of the technology – and what can be made on-demand in the world.”
Currently, the offerings in Kwambio’s shop include a lot of edgy jewelry and decor – all customizable. The company also offers services to designers including customizable API, prototyping and wholesaling services. Kwambio is always looking for more designers to sell on its site, as well. Designers are carefully chosen, but anyone can apply – just fill out an application here.
“KWAMBIO gives their partnered designers the ability to experiment with new design processes and manufacturing options while connecting easily and intimately with a broad customer base,” Kolambet adds. “KWAMBIO holds no inventory, so there is no overhead or minimums for designers, also no logistics or production. KWAMBIO makes it easy and simple for designers to bring new products to the market.”
