0354 - Digital Fabrication: Introduction to Laser Cutting, 3D Printing + More
Course Description
Co-Works, RISD's state-of-the-art facility for digital fabrication, hosts this course that introduces techniques -- such as laser cutting, 3D printing, UV printing, and others -- for making three-dimensional objects starting with a digital file. The course will also provide support in other fabrication techniques (including casting and mold making, vacuum forming, industrial sewing, etc.) to help fully realize student projects. Purposefully accessible, this course avoids the usual digital prerequisites of advanced 3D modeling skills by focusing on workflow through less intimidating 3D scanning approaches and the use of open-source 3D files. Basic Rhino 3D modeling and Illustrator overviews are given while more in-depth support is offered according to individual student interest. The course begins with an overview of digital fabrication processes and their potential applications to all fields of art and design. Then students are supported in developing individual projects primarily utilizing laser cutting, FDM (fusion deposition modeling) and SLA (stereolithography) 3D printing, and UV printing. Other fabrication technologies are introduced as projects and student interests dictate: casting and mold making, vacuum forming, pen/knife plotting, large-format printing, industrial sewing, etc. In line with RISD's interdisciplinary culture, the course is structured to integrate all individual creative practices and has applications to fashion, textiles, jewelry, product and industrial design, ceramics, as well as sculpture and painting. Please note that in addition to the lab fee, you can expect to have to buy additional supplies for this course. We try to keep this cost under $100, but for specialized courses (jewelry, wood, metals) this may be higher.
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Animation : Electives
- Graphic Design : Electives
- Interactive Design : Electives
- Natural Science Illustration : Electives
- Painting Studies : Electives
- Photography : Electives