3D Printing vs. Handmade Miniatures - which is better?

[@IDreamInMini]

In my humble opinion, both are valid. A 3d printer is just another tool in your arsenal. If you have one and are able to use it, why not? It's super fun! Plus, it's hard to find content related to 3d printing for dollhouses, and your channel is the best one I've found so far. I also plan to make more content related to 3d printing, as there seem to be more and more miniaturists who either have 3d printers or plan on getting one. This being said, I would never use my 3d printer exclusively. There will always be room for other materials and techniques that are just as fun. So, at the end of the day, you do you ❤

[@MHS-us1qv]

I agree, personally I find it way more interesting to watch hand-made miniatures rather than 3-D printed ones because there's an inherent mystery and curiousity to the project and how it was achieved, like with your miniature violin from ages ago. There's so many non-intuitive techniques and challenges (taking coffee stirrers, making them wet, bending them in an exact shape and holding them down with rubber bands) that make the project way more impressive to me than a project that's been printed by a machine in one or two easily assembled pieces. I completely understand your reasoning and points for shifting to 3D printed models, and you've even convinced me it's more useful than I initially thought. That said, I just don't find it fun to watch or very impressive. It's just not as exciting to see the process boiled down to making a 3D model and printing it, I may as well be watching a factory made piece. Do I like the end product and think it's cool? Yes. Do I understand there's a lot of effort made to design and produce the piece? Yes. But is it necessarily as intricate or tactile as something painstakingly designed and handmade, especially with tools that are super accessible compared to a giant and expensive 3D printer? No. I think as long as you're clear and honest with your video titles and what your process is, there's no problem in transitioning more to 3D printed pieces, but given you've built a devent audience out of making pieces by hand, whether or not they'll choose to stick by you I can't say for sure. Since you have established a talent and reputation for handmade things, I've been fooled a couple times on your channel by videos titled as DIY like your older ones, only to find out the process is done through 3D printing instead of being handmade like I'd assumed. Overall, really enjoyed this video and appreciated your honest take on both sides! Good to catch up with your contrnt once again and to learn something new.

[@herbicide]

Hell yeah

[@canijoinmbonitay7552]

I never moved away from you channel , I been watching you channel from long time , is very hard for me to used 3 D printed cuz I’m a old fashion and I never learn the new stuff,, but I love all the stuff you do .

[@ExpressAudioVideo]

Cath, I have a third option which I use. I have a laser cutter. I use several types and widths of wood to make my tiny objects. Lightburn, the software we use, can import many types of cad objects. We can also scan objects in and import them into Lightburn. Often, my creations contain a combination of 3D printed, laser cut, and hand made objects. Like you said, it is wonderful to be able to have access to such a wide variety of tools.

[@IDreamInMini]

That's on my bucket list as well ❤

[@janinelew2483]

I use all three options as well.

[@blondinizer4057]

I say if you want to create something, do it! It doesn't matter what materials/media you use. Just do it!!❤

[@Rhonettala187]

I've been watching for a few years now and I love it most when you use a combination of materials and show different ways of producing things. You're great at showing that you can get great results no matter how much money or skill you have 😊

[@FarmgirlFriday]

I don’t watch as many of your long form videos anymore, and it’s not because I don’t think 3D printing is a valid art form. I recognize it also takes time and talent. I watch long form of miniatures to learn techniques to make them myself. Since I don’t have a 3D printer, I don’t always want to take the time to watch a long form about it since I won’t be able to replicate it or use the techniques. I still follow you because I do enjoy your shorts where I can quickly see the cute thing you made.

[@minniemat]

I have been watching your videos for years and you have inspired me to get back into miniature making, which I loved doing as a kid. Your video on the camper kit was my motivation to go from watching others create to begin to create again myself. I have thoroughly enjoyed the mixture of a ready-made kit with the ability to customize and truly create my own piece of art. As far as making by hand or by machine, I completely understand how having a family changes everything in your life, including hobbies. I love how you have adapted to create in a way that works for you, and it's wonderful to see you sharing your passion with your child. Every season of life comes with different priorities. There may come a day again when you can spend hours making without interruption, but for now raising your family is one of your greatest creations and they are better for it ❤️ Thank you for your inspiration in all of these ways 🩵

[@queencityminis]

I think any technology or medium that allows miniature making to be more accessible is fantastic, in my opinion. I'm really enjoying the availability of laser cut and 3d printed kits and files. I also think technology is very useful for making tedious, symmetrical, things like window panes that may sap your creativity and take up too much time, especially if you need to make multiples. Technology can allow you to put your energy into hand making miniatures you're really passionate about instead of having to hand make everything or purchase it for top dollar.

[@mikeshardly]

I’m transitioning from making miniature kits to fully diy, and I love making this fully by hand. But also my nieces love my miniatures and want to do it with me so I purchased some plastic kits that are far simpler so they can make those with my supervision. There is definitely space for both 3D printed pieces and hand made. Although I do agree that I prefer watching videos where the models are made by hand

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

It's so great to hear you're making miniatures with your nieces! And definitely agreed. If I had the time, I would love to sit in peace and craft by hand all day long

[@IAmLachesis]

Is it me or was the audio extremely low volume for this video?

[@hollyingraham3980]

Yes, I had to max it, using ear pods.

[@polythenepam3236]

@@hollyingraham3980 it didn’t help when there was a silent bit and suddenly an ad comes on full blast 😂

[@MissBabyNe]

Max and still unable to hear clearly.

[@francklie6568]

I think 3D printing is a form of art. You still have to create the piece on the program, and it's like sculpting but on screen instead of with your hands. Still art.

[@mizzuzie3338]

My miniature crafting journey is very similar to yours (except the family part) and I recently bought a 3D printer. There is a lot of creative skills going in to both kinds of creation and your videos has always been a source of inspiration either way. For me it's the process of creation and your enthusiasm that is the key, not the medium you use.

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

People need to stop gatekeeping creative spaces. It's no different from people who think that digital art isn't "real" because it's not painted, drawn, or whatever on canvas or paper. If you want to create and model things, then 3D print them, go for it. If you want to make them by hand, do that. People are too freaking precious over what's "real" or not, as well as often speaking from ignorance because they don't recognise what actually goes into making something using newer technologies.

[@sirenofthesea7802]

Exactly! I get so frustrated with people who do nothing but complain about anyone else doing something different than what they prefer. It shouldn't really matter if it's the "right" or "wrong" method, just how much the actual person enjoys doing it as well as appreciates the end product. I honestly have issues with fine motor control in my hands & physically can't do a lot of crafting in general. But I love watching content creators work & just enjoy their enjoyment as they craft. It's quite therapeutic in a way. Why can't more people just relax & watch the video? Just because she's doing something a certain way doesn't mean everyone has to do it that exact way, too.

[@JustAnotherBuckyLover]

@@sirenofthesea7802 Precisely... and if it's not your cup of tea? Just scroll on and find something that is. There's SO much media uploaded every single day you can never watch all of it, there's bound to be something that appeals to you. It's not like we're discussing some kind of moral position here, it's CRAFTING FFS.

[@RochelleLang]

I’m sad she feels like she has to explain herself. If you’re not talented that’s on you not her. Stop trying to stop her progress because you’re untalented. Clearly she’s an artist. True artist can work in any medium.

[@Unifarts]

Would you consider making a video which explains some Tinker CAD fundamentals, how you made the doors snap into place (/model printable hinges) and how you post process your prints? I have been incredibly inspired by you and you're the reason I want to delve into 3d printing, but have struggled to find proper info on how to do functional doll furniture in 3d.

[@abe_nuh]

for me, it really depends. 3d printing for the convenience, while hand making for both the experience and the accessibility for many people. both methods are great, but there are limits to both.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

Fantastic points! I couldn’t agree more. Both have advantages and limits so it important to know when to use which

[@abe_nuh]

@@TheSquaretoSparei'd also like to add that 3d printing can add more details much easier than handmaking! and because of filament grain, if it's too small, it may be easier to break rather than wood. but for other hobbies, such as clock making, i would think that 3d printing would be far more accessible than wood gears, though you would sacrifice the strength.

[@sweetdaisy9918]

Listening to your opinion throughout the whole video was really interesting. I consider you an artist. Period. The means you apply doesn't change a thing. Hugs from Argentina Kath 🤗🇦🇷💖

[@TracyLynnAP]

I loved and love your content. Handmade or 3D printed. The creativity for both is just amazing. Your soothing voice your excellent way you explain and go through the steps for both types of projects plus the beautiful finished projects will always have me coming to watch. I enjoy your IG content as well. Oh both these little kitchens plus your sons are adorable. Thank you.

[@lamia8089]

I just want to say, I’m not likely to follow any of your tutorials but I really enjoy watching your creative process :)

[@ImCassy]

I think the answer is Yes. It is Art. Is it accessible? Not really for everyone, but that doesn't stop it from being art - especially when you yourself are making it from scratch in TinkerCAD

[@gothgammy666]

TinkererCAD is definitely hard work!

[@ireneskulmoski5764]

Here’s my issue. I bought my 3D printer based on your recommendation. I have tried unsuccessfully to print your dishwasher numerous times. I am left with the feeling I wasted my money

[@yokomortel6479]

I enjoy watching minis made by hand, using found or upcycled materials. It has that “homemade” feel to me. That “essence”… hard to explain

[@IAmLachesis]

Art is subjective; I look at 3D printing as another tool. That said, the materials to entry are way lower for hand building. 3D modeling in addition to requiring expensive filament or resin material also requires a learning curve in just getting things to print/sanded. But, I’ve also seen truly intricate tiny pieces carved from wood, so it all depends how far you’re willing to go. I’m glad you’ve found something that works for you, Kath. And I hope your son enjoys his “full size” playset!

[@Mommamacnz]

This was a very interesting discussion and thank you for it. Part of what you said really resonated with me and I would like to use your comments on how 3D printing has made miniatures as a hobby accessible to people with disabilities in an assignment I'm working on for my Library Studies degree. I liked that comment so much that even though my assignment isn't directly on this topic, I'm hoping I can make it fit (I'm doing a research project on how my local libraries work or don't work for people with physical disabilities. Our libraries provide access to 3D printing, so I'm really hoping I can use your comment in my work somehow as it is a very important point.

[@marianaamoedo5942]

I love your designs. I've followed you since you transformed kits into something else, with so much creativity and passion. Everything you build I always figure my child playing with in her doll house.

[@Real_Name_Redacted]

as long as you are making something, you are a maker. Authors used to write their books with a quill and ink. Then entered typewriters and now computers. Nobody questions if they are still considered authors. Its just more convenient . Do i think its more impressive to do something by hand ? sure. Who wouldn't. But at the end of the day, im all for doing whatever you need to do to remove barriers that slow down your fun making things. Why gatekeep somebody's joy ?

[@i.m.dmented3245]

3D printing is an art form. I enjoy watching both. p.s. I didn't know Exacto had a saw blade!!❤

[@NatalieeeWhite]

3D modeling is definitely a form of art. However, I don't believe everyone with a 3D printer is an artist. I see many people on etsy, facebook, craft fairs, and similar marketplaces selling 3D prints that they either obtained from Thingiverse or another 3D model platform and calling those prints their art. I think it is important to note the difference between 3D modeling and 3D printing when it comes to "is it art". If you are not the designer of a 3D model, even if you print it in your home on your printer, that is not your art. There is definitely an argument when it comes to painting something that has been 3D printed, painting in itself is an art form, however, if you did not design the 3D print it is a collaboration and requires proper credit when published, shared, or sold. Long comment short, if you design the 3D model yourself it is your art and it IS ART. Thats my rant on it, and I appreciate anyone who read through my comment!

[@annvaden1485]

You are creative enough and smart enough to do a beautiful job in both mediums. You're amazing!

[@Marialla.]

Is it meant to have no audio from 4:26 to 6:23?

[@abe_nuh]

i guess so, as sometimes she doesnt talk for a bit and sometimes she doesn't put any music in her videos too.

[@Touyube8811]

I like the premise behind this video. I also love your attention to detail, so I will pretty much watch whatever you post 😀

[@machineofrage]

For some reason the audio levels on this video are very low, I'm not sure if that is just me or is everyone experiencing the same issue?

[@heathermckay5034]

Thank you for exploring this! You’re absolutely right - there are pros to both ways, and a combination can improve our craft/output, especially when real life has its demands! Bentley House Minis gets the balance just right. I think, for me, it’s all about the way the real world scale thing would be produced. An antique wooden chest of drawers? Handmade all the way. A more modern room, maybe IKEA style furniture? 3D print! Similarly, mass-produced smaller items like tech or accessories - print it (if you can)! Ultimately, I think a human presence and intention needs to come across over the whole project. If it’s entirely 3D printed, the element of automation can make it look “too” perfect to the human eye and take away some of the personality and magic. It’s like subtle finger prints in 3D claymation!

[@leannewright9686]

Keep making YOUR videos, do what you love to do if people move on great, people move on from channel to channel regardless of whether you change your style or stay stead fast for life so do what makes you happy and those of us that like it will watch those of us who appreciate you and your personality will watch whatever you put on …. I’ve stayed watching other creators long past they moved on to things I don’t have an interest in but because I appreciate the creator and their personality I continue to watch for them… Personally I love to make hand made I love to make 3D printed I use laser machines also I love to make items in every way I possibly can as I want the best items so a mixture of creating these will give me the best outcome so I appreciate your videos and i appreciate you as a creator … do what you love!

[@lintball8379]

I appreciate the 3D printable elements. I have nerve damage in my hands that make holding small things and details difficult AND I am allergic to glues and a lot of paints, not to mention my eyesight isn't what it used to be. Thank you for your content!

[@michellewright6178]

Art is simply a reference to the medium that is used, so it ultimately boils down to if the one making the art in question finds that there skills advancing or stagnanting.

[@ladylee8364]

Hi there this was an Awsom Awsom video thank you so much for this video it really means a lot to see the difference and hear you and watch you show the different steps and in the end two beautiful pieces

[@marcusyee2211]

This channel got me into 3d designing in the first place. I'm still learning and while I acknowledge that 3D designing and printing isn't accessible for everyone (I still don't have access to a 3D printer), the direction of this channel shouldn't discourage people from creating, even if it's a different medium. Nothing in the videos in the last few months indicates that people CAN'T create the same things out of everyday materials. This method isn't your preference? Find a solution that best works for you 🤷‍♂️ feel like too many people complain over something that's wasn't an issue in the first place.

[@klaird_h4727]

I'll always support Cath! Even if I have someone else 3d print the items for me🤷🏾‍♀️. Your work has always been amazing.👏🏾👏🏾

[@luuuscarlet]

I didnt have a 3D printer but one of my brothers yes. He struggles a lot , doing miniature(also hand paints them) figures… But its good when you need do a lot, but classic crafting, i like more. Its good to know both ways.

[@angelacole9664]

As a graphics artist I understand the process. I feel if it's not your personal design [your 3d modeling] that's just printing something. But you model it and print it, it's no different from hands-on building. I have designed one thing completely, using an actual bed I made by hand that came out a lil wonky. I still love the bed, but it's been moved and handled for about 7 years. I have yet to print it, though. Lol

[@DollsandEverythingElse]

I appreciate both versions, as I have a 3D printer but I prefer say sofas made with wood, cushions, etc. and I have a laser cutter to assist me with the cutting of the wood. Thanks for sharing.

[@leonieelizabeth2831]

Thank you for understanding that people who create and are crafters can use different methods. It would also be nice for the crafting community to understand that some people with age, health or accidents in life may not have the physical dexterity to create everything by hand yet still have a wealth of creativity to bring to the world and may need to adapt their way of creating ❤️ please understand and show as above some more understanding

[@NigelSheldon]

Your a wonderful artist, and teacher who is inspiring. You are greatly appreciated!

[@Ratharee]

The audio is too quiet. I can't hear anything you're saying, when with the volume maxed out.

[@gothgammy666]

She’s always soft spoken

[@speaknownit]

You do great things. I have a question, do you only use tinkercad for design or another program? In one film I saw you designing an armchair using a graphic tablet, did you use tinkercard there too?

[@paulaunger3061]

Great vid, I really enjoyed this. A 3D printer is a bit out of scope for me - I think if you made a lot of miniatures to sell it would be an essential investment. But if you’re just a hobbyist making things for fun, probably better to go handmade. Really enjoyed watching the process for both though, thanks for sharing!

[@lynnhill4530]

Hi Kat... it's real art both ways but I loved your hand built from scratch. I also love when you do this version... both ways. I understand your need to move to 3D but hope that from time to time you can go back and make the side by side build.

[@georginagal]

You have inspired me to buy a 3D printer. It is affordable, small and so much fun. I am very grateful!

[@cgreen25]

Both are art but most people don't own 3d printers

[@Real_Moon-Moon]

I’ve moved away from your channel because you only do 3D printing and I don’t own a printer, nor do I have the space to store one in my office.

[@TheSquaretoSpare]

I totally get it! That makes perfect sense as the content is no longer applicable to you 😊

[@Real_Moon-Moon]

@ I absolutely loved the old content where it was all stuff you could make by hand with some cheap craft supplies. I miss it tbh.

[@artbylesleymilne]

Me too because I am unemployed so cant afford fancy machines.

[@Real_Moon-Moon]

@ I am too. I quit my job back in June and have been unable to find a new one.

[@SCRAPGIRLINBLUE]

I love the old and new. I make things by hand and I enjoy 3d printing as well. It’s all art to me. It really depends on the individual which medium you use.

[@tommypaton2445]

I wish 3D printers went so expensive, I would be into making minis more (more tastes change so I don't get to bored in my crafting). But I can't justify myself buying one unless I have a business, so I think the "which is better" is up to one's personal belief. Like all art, is subjective.

[@sabineneuhold8378]

In many I agree with you. If you handle the topic as much as you do, 3D printing is definitely an extension. If a 3D enables a beloved hobby to be pursued despite restrictions - wonderful. I work in the educational field and I find that all new techniques are more and more disappearing the manual skills. Man just like to go the easy way. Why waste 2 days when you are finished in 30 minutes. I know adults who don't know how to hold a pencil in your hand, but take nice digital pictures. In my opinion, half of the ability is missing. I also don't want to argue about the expression of art, but about the skills that you should first learn in a real world. Many never learn the craft in the real world because there are so many abbreviations that are simple and simply more convenient. As with everything, the dose makes the poison.

[@clairehislop5873]

I personally prefer the handmade versions because I'm not tech savvy but hey each to their own 🙂

[@javiervarelafeteira8764]

I also like to model stuff that I'm going to make by hand, cause i can see if my measurements are correct

[@DesXD]

People that claim that you’re no longer “creating art” because you’re 3d printing your pieces simply don’t understand what it takes to literally sculpt/model a 3d piece. It’s easier for most people to cut up and glue together popsicle sticks and toothpicks than it is to use 3d modeling software and maintain a 3d printer, even though the 3d printed route may take less time. Now if you’re just downloading and printing pieces, I might understand if someone were to say that there is no artistry in that, but then again, who cares? Go and enjoy what you enjoy and leave people to enjoy what they enjoy and stop it with the elitist gatekeeping bullcrap - people who are happy with and enjoying their lives do not find joy in making people feel bad or lesser than.

[@cybergrief]

I think there is room for both of course. 3d printing is using a special tool. I seem to have more personal respect for hand made items. more organic. I 3d print as well. But my own creations in blender and sculptris

[@StefsMiniaturesandCrafts-ej3mz]

I want a 3d printer- I love options to create many ways ❤

[@gothgammy666]

The ridiculous rude judgements about you using 3D printing is out of pocket. You have always used a wide range of tools and techniques and added new technologies as they became available. If people don’t want to 3D print then move on but it’s not an airport no need to announce your departure, nor be mean or rude about it. I enjoy all of your videos, even when you use an expensive laser cutter that I’ll never afford.

[@DRN]

Yes 3D art is real art

[@judygouchie9701]

🥰

[@joannabaparileszczynska]

If a person can duct tape a banana to the wall and call it art, then 3d printing is also art

[@jennglow4647]

Cute 😀

[@Eczilon]

You should probably be careful with saying that 3D modelling makes miniatures 'more accessible' to the disabled. If we learned anything from the NaNoWriMo AI Scandal, it's that you should never underestimate what the differently abled are capable of, and they do NOT like being told they can't do something by someone who can.