Easily Convert a Design to 3D Block Prints

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In this guide we are going to turn an image or 2D design into a block or stamp that we can use to print the image by hand onto paper or fabric. However, rather than tracing the image onto a lino or wood block and cutting it out by hand, which is a laborious and not child friendly task, we will use the 3d printer to create our print block.

Just as when you create a block print using the traditional method, it is important that your starting image or design be suitable for block printing. Solid blocks of color lend themselves well to this kind of printing. If your design has multiple colors you will need to create a separate block for each color or a single block for the ‘main’ color and then add the other colors by hand using a brush, etc.

1. Convert JPEG/PNG to SVG

The first step is to convert the image from a dot (or raster format) to a format more suitable for 3D modeling, in this case Scalable Vector Graphic or SVG format.

We will use the online tool http://image.online-convert.com. Simply upload your JPEG or PNG file and after a brief pause while the image is uploaded and then converted, your converted image should start downloading as a SVG formatted file.

 2. Size the Image in Tinkercad

If you haven’t tried 3D design/modeling software before, then Tinkercad is a good place to start. It is an online design tool that runs in your browser rather than requiring you to download and install software. You can try the service out at no cost by using a free account.

Create a new project in Tinkercad, set the grid to use your preferred units of measurement (mm or inches) and then load the SVG file that you downloaded in step 1. Adjust the width (x axis) and length (y axis) of the design to your liking. Ensure that the height (z axis) is around 5mm or 1/4 inch. Save the design.

3. Print the Design

With the FlashForge Finder the next step is pretty straightforward. Fire up FlashPrint the FlashForge printer software, create a new project and load the design file saved in step 2.

Ensure that the model is centered on your printer bed. Make sure to use a raft when printing and print the design.

After the design has printed, carefully pry it off the printer bed without separating it from the raft. Do NOT remove it from the raft – we will use this as the backing for the design.

4. Use the Printed Block

Use oil or water based print inks and a brayer to ink the design and then print it onto paper (or fabric as desired), carefully pressing down on the backside of the raft to ensure that all parts of your print block make contact with the paper. Peel the paper off and hopefully you should have something decent looking.

Hand color any areas of the print as desired.