CLAY 3D PRINTING

Technology Partner |

Master in Parametric Design, Controlmad Fablab Madrid

Sector |

Digital Fabrication Technology

Year |

2025

Project Type |

Research & Technology Experimentation

THE CHALLENGE

This project was a deliberate exploration of unfamiliar territory: learning to create and manipulate G-code, working with clay (a material I had no prior experience with), mastering Grasshopper design techniques, understanding 3D printing technology constraints, and learning traditional pottery craft—all simultaneously. The challenge was finding suitable designs for clay's unique material properties, which behave very differently from polymer printing. How far could I push this material? The goal was building transferable knowledge that would enable me to adapt 3D printing to other materials and understand robotic printing requirements more deeply—capabilities essential for creating diverse client demonstrators.

Experimental clay 3D printing using custom G-code generated in Grasshopper.

Espresso cup immediately after 3D printing process.

THE innovation

I developed a computational ceramic workflow combining custom G-code programming with traditional craft finishing. Using Grasshopper for algorithmic pattern generation, I created precise clay extrusion control enabling parametric woven structures and complex internal geometries. The project produced fully functional espresso cups featuring intricate lattice structures, then applied traditional ceramic finishing techniques (glazing, firing) to transform digital experiments into functional objects. This workflow proved that computational design could enhance rather than replace traditional ceramic craft.

3D-printed clay objects after drying and kiln firing.

3D-printed clay objects after drying and kiln firing.

THE DEMONSTRATION STRATEGY

This project demonstrates how computational design makes complex geometries tangible through material transformation. The workflow—from algorithmic pattern generation through clay printing to finished ceramic objects—shows how digital precision merges with handcrafted tactile qualities. The progression from simple geometric forms to complex lattice structures proves the scalability of computational ceramic techniques for demonstrating advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Experimental ceramic glazing applied to 3D-printed forms.

IMPACT & VALIDATION

Technical Development:

Completed during intensive 385-hour Master in Parametric Design program at Controlmad Fablab Madrid
Successfully integrated computational design with traditional ceramic craft techniques
Created fully functional objects validating practical applications beyond decorative pieces
Established workflow merging digital precision with artisanal finishing

Business Relevance: This research project demonstrates my computational design expertise and material experimentation capabilities—skills that translate directly to client demonstrator development. The ability to develop custom G-code, explore material constraints, and merge digital precision with traditional finishing techniques proves I can adapt advanced manufacturing technologies to create compelling demonstrations that balance technical innovation with tactile appeal.

Finished espresso cups after glazing and final kiln firing.

DEMONSTRATOR POTENTIAL

This computational ceramic approach proves valuable for digital fabrication exhibitions and advanced manufacturing showcases where companies need to demonstrate how traditional materials can integrate with cutting-edge parametric design workflows.

TECHNICAL SPECS

Materials: Clay with traditional glazing and kiln firing
Production: Custom G-code via Grasshopper, clay 3D printing, ceramic finishing
Complexity Range: Simple geometric forms to intricate lattice structures
Applications: Custom ceramics, architectural elements, functional tableware, small-batch production