Samsung Digital Classroom: 3D Printed Jewellery


Learning and Interpretation
August 13, 2015

This week we have been hosting Black Country Atelier as part of the Samsung Digital Classroom to create 3D printed jewellery inspired by the V&A’s collections. Black Country Atelier are a studio of artists, designers, scientists and engineers who as well as taking on commissions, run innovative design workshops in schools and museums.

Learning how to use Sketchup. Here you can see a contemporary take on a scarab ring
Learning how to use Sketchup. Here you can see a contemporary take on a scarab ring

We have collaborated once before, way back in 2012 as part of the British Design: 1948 – 2012 exhibition and it was great to have them back. Previously we ran what were very busy sessions with families redesigning classic British cars and printing them and by the end of the week had worked with 3,000 people,created our own mini factory and production line and put in a few night shifts as well!

Students using tablets in the galleries to draw designs and collect inspiration from jewellery through the ages

This session however was a lot more relaxed despite having a full class. Over two days students learnt the basics of CAD through using Google Sketchup and then started to interpret their drawn designs into 3D models. By the time the second day had come around, even those who have never touched CAD before were producing original designs taking elements and ideas from across the V&A galleries, producing earrings, pendants, hairclips and necklaces.

An example of using a design from the galleries, a Sylvia Goldberger ring, and then converting it into a CAD model before printing.
An example of using a design from the galleries, a Sylvia Goldberger ring, analysing its design and construction and then converting it into a CAD model before printing
BCA showed the group how to 3D scan objects and how they could incorprate those models into their designs. Here is a test peice with one of the students!
BCA showed the group how to 3D scan objects and how they could incorprate those models into their designs. Here is a test peice with one of the students!
A few of the designs that were made in the session.
A few of the designs that were made in the session
From screen to your hand – a printed ring in front of the 3D model

Many thanks to Black Country Atelier for coming in to deliver an amazing session over the two days! The Samsung Digital Classroom is a new programme for 16 – 19 year olds which offers hands on, practical workshops exploring the latest in digital art and design. You can find more of our Samsung Digital Classroom Sessions online here and follow blogs about the sessions through News from the Learning Department.

About the author


Learning and Interpretation
August 13, 2015

I'm Team Leader for Digital Programmes at the V&A and run events, workshops, talks and festivals with artists and designers who use and experiment with digital tools, processes and manufacturing.

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