The very first journal entry discusses the origins of Golden Leaf 3D Printing, but it doesn’t talk about what got this site started in the first place. There has been a 3D printer in the house since the days of something called Melzi, one of the earliest boards used for making home 3D printers. Despite that, I’ve been uninterested in 3D printing for years, viewing the printers as a kind of nuisance that took up too much room. The thought that I could actually create useful designs and print them wasn’t something that occurred to me.

At one point I expressed how cool it would be if a person could make their own designs. Someone mentioned Tinkercad, and it was off to the races! I’ve since made light switch covers, miniature buildings, shelving units, wedding flowers, a rotating platform for gaming, a rotating paintbrush holder, all manner of storage containers, even a custom magnetic pen holder. All the designs were workable, and all made with the same totally free, super accessible software.

There’s something really cool about being able to make my own designs. It was positively empowering. And it was a thing anyone could do if they had the time and inclination. Amazing.

I want to share that feeling of accessibility. Of being able to make your own thing, or modify an existing thing. I want to share the adventure of discovering new things about this hobby. It’s fun!

It is my hope that this site will contribute to your fun as well :)