Penumbra is excited to announce the launch of our state-of-the-art 3D Printing Lab, an exciting new resource that opens up new creative and technical possibilities for image makers.
The lab is equipped with tools for 3D printing, 3D scanning, laser engraving, and laser cutting.
To celebrate the launch, we’ll be offering a selection of workshops, online classes, and public programs in Fall 2025, led by artist and educator Morgan Post. These programs are designed to introduce artists to the potential of 3D technology and encourage innovation in their practices.
Upcoming Public Programming
We are offering 3 hour-long demonstrations to our community to introduce the lab and its capabilities. The events are free, but RSVP’s are required. Space is limited to 12 participants, please RSVP to reserve your spot.
Tuesday, September 23rd | 2 - 3 PM | RSVP here
Tuesday, October 14th | 2 - 3 PM | RSVP here
Tuesday, November 18th | 2 - 3 PM | RSVP here
Upcoming Workshops
Introduction to 3D Design for Artists
Thursdays, October 2nd - 23rd | 6-8PM ET | Online
This four-week online course introduces photographers and artists of all levels to the fundamentals of 3D design. Through individual projects, participants will explore how to take an idea from concept to digital prototype, learning how to sketch, plan, and prepare designs for 3D printing.
The course emphasizes key steps in the design process: ideation, drawing by hand, and translating designs into digital form. No prior experience is required. Students will need a pencil, ruler, graph paper, and digital calipers. While 3D software is not mandatory, beginner-friendly programs like TinkerCAD or SketchUp Free are encouraged. More advanced tools such as Blender or Shapr 3D may also be used, though they have steeper learning curves or additional costs. A tablet with stylus can be helpful but is not required.
By the end of the course, participants will have a foundational understanding of how to translate ideas into 3D digital prototypes. Students are encouraged to print their designs independently, or continue learning in-person in Introduction to 3D Printing for Artists.
Images show 3D printed prototypes of lens elements, 4x5 camera, autochrome insert, and lens board. Images courtesy of Morgan Post
Introduction to 3D Printing for Artists
Thursdays, October 30th - November 20th, 5 - 8 PM ET | In-Person
This 4-week course introduces artists and photographers of all levels to the creative possibilities of 3D printing. Participants will learn how to translate digital designs into physical objects using Penumbra Foundation’s new 3D Lab, working with a range of materials including filament, resin, wood, metal, plexiglass, and paper.
Each student will develop an individual project, with the option to create original designs, modify existing templates, or explore hybrid approaches. The course will cover file preparation, material selection, adjustments, reprinting, and alterations. The lab’s equipment also supports 2D cutting, drawing, and engraving, broadening the range of surfaces and techniques available.
Emphasis will be placed on idea development, project design, material exploration, and transferring digital designs into physical form.
No prior experience is necessary. By the end of the course, participants will have completed a printed design and gained the confidence to continue working with 3D printing independently.
What’s included in the lab?
3D Printers:
FormLab 3+ Printer
FormLab 4 Printer
Bambu Lab X1- Carbon Combo 3D Printer Multi color Filament Printer
Bambu Lab H2D Printer and Laser Cutter
Printer Accessories:
Form Wash
Form Cure
Software:
Preform
Shapr3D
Dashboard
Printing Materials:
PVA Filaments (Matte, basic, and lithophane, in a variety of colors)
Resin (Clear, black, rigid, casting, & an assortment of colors)
Our 3D Printing Lab was made possible by a 2024 Equipment Grant by the Joy of Giving Something and generous contributions from the Post-Keller Trust.
