A market trader is hoping to take advantage of 3D printing to expand his business.
Simon Dawson, of Ambleside Close, Huncoat, runs an art shop in Accrington Market Hall and has been using the new technology to create 3D models.
Simon said: “3D printing has been around for a few years, but prices have now come down to what most ordinary people can afford.
“It used to be used primarily for prototyping, but can now also be used to create finished items.
“I remember Bertha, the children’s TV programme from the 1980s, where Bertha the machine could make anything, and 3D printing is a bit like that.”
Simon said that he first used 3D printing on a First World War model project.
He said: “Once the First World War project was completed, I turned my attention to other potential designs, all related to model railways, and my latest item is a model of something I walk past most days.
“Upstairs in Accrington market, there is a small spiral staircase leading up to the roof area.
“I felt I was now ready to design something more complex, so designed a small model based on the market staircase.
“Samples have now been received, and are good examples of what can be done using 3D printing.”
Simon invited fellow traders and residents to pop into his market hall shop to talk about how 3D printing can be used.
He said: “I am happy to chat to anyone about 3D printing.
“There is a lot of information on the Internet. Some people are even buying their own machines, or making them.”
