For better or worse, our world is being shaped by a number of rapidly advancing technologies. Here at 3D World, we find 3D printing to be among the most exciting and positive of these technological developments.

Additive manufacturing from digital designs seems right out of Star Trek, and yet it’s now a vital part of many industries. Flick through copies of this magazine from the past few years and you’ll see praise for the latest 3D printing hardware and materials, investigations into the potential of 3D printing in every industry, from medicine and model making to film production, and advice for readers that want to join in the 3D-printed fun. In fact, we think it’s fair to say that the 3D printing revolution is well and truly underway.

After a decade of 3D printing’s rise to prominence, the time seemed right to take stock of this new art form. How is it that 3D printing technology went from a specialist solution to a worldwide phenomenon? How has it evolved in the decade since, and how is it becoming more accessible to everyone? We’ll answer all these questions and more with the help of industry experts, so without further ado, let’s delve into the world of 3D printing.

IN THE BEGINNING…

Although it