3DTres is a company from Valls that combines digital craftsmanship and additive manufacturing. During the pandemic, three young entrepreneurs began commercialising products that were very well received. As their name suggests, additive manufacturing has been at the core of the project, and over the years they have expanded both their product range and the technologies they use. In early 2023, they discovered ThinkIn3D Mataró and saw all the possibilities the incubator could offer them to consolidate and scale the project.
What is digital craftsmanship with additive manufacturing? Who are 3DTres?
3DTres creates what we could call digital craftsmanship with additive manufacturing: using 3D printers with PLA and laser machines to engrave wood. The project focuses on two main aspects: Catalan popular culture and personalisation. For example, they make giant figures, city skylines, keyrings and now also tote bags. All products are ideal both as gifts and for personal use.
Catalan Culture and Personalisation
Unlike cities such as Barcelona, other cities like Tarragona, Mataró or Valls do not have this type of souvenir. That is why 3DTres saw the opportunity to create products rooted in local culture. Moreover, personalisation is key: the 3D-printed panels are based on photographs sent by clients, turning them into entirely unique pictures. The combination of digital technology and manual craftsmanship makes each piece unique and sustainable.
The Fusion Between Technology and Craftsmanship
We call it digital craftsmanship. On one hand, because we use digital tools, and on the other, because we also use traditional tools and, moreover, we do not produce in bulk. In fact, we make the products we sell one by one. That is why it is also a very artisanal and sustainable process, because we only make what we need.
The Beginning of the Project
It all started two years ago, when Marina and Xavier acquired 3D printers for their home. During the pandemic, they manufactured straps for hospital masks. Afterwards, they began creating keyrings and other products to sell, initially founding the company as 3Ddos. Later, with the arrival of Paula Secall in marketing and communications, the project was renamed 3DTres.
The Role of Additive Manufacturing
Additive manufacturing is central to 3DTres. First, it allows prototyping figures and panels before producing them. Then, wood and PLA casings are combined to achieve attractive products. Finally, it is used to show clients what a customised product adapted to another region would look like.
Experience at ThinkIn 3D Mataró
3DTres have been taking part in the High Performance Programme for two months. They combine digital theory sessions with personalised mentoring. They can also visit the facilities to prototype and test ideas. Furthermore, they build a network with other companies and experts, receiving comprehensive support in technology, funding and marketing.
Initially we did a job identifying needs and areas for improvement at 3DTres. For example, one of the aspects we want to work on is funding and access to specific grants. But at a technical level we also have very personalised support, because one of the technology experts will come to visit our facilities to look at how we can optimise our machinery.
What has brought you the most value from the incubation at ThinkIn 3D Mataró?
On one hand, for us it is very important to know that we have support through mentoring, so that for any doubts we may have at a technical, funding, marketing level, etc., we have guidance and they quickly put us in contact with expert people who can help us. And, of course, the fact that we can test with the equipment they have. It is also true that through ThinkIn 3D you make many contacts, you can build links with other companies and network while getting yourself known. In the end, we have 360° support: in all the areas we need and with experts in each specific field.
What would you say to an entrepreneur or company considering joining a ThinkIn 3D Mataró programme?
To go for it, because they will definitely help you and you will learn a great deal. And, above all, it is very worthwhile because they offer expert mentoring in all the areas you need, as well as the possibility to test and prototype, at a price that is truly very symbolic. Everything you need, they can provide.
Challenges and Objectives
One of the challenges is to explore new market niches without losing the artisanal essence. The incubator allows them to experiment without compromising quality or sustainability.
Five-Year Vision
The goal is to dedicate themselves 100% to 3DTres, with a project recognised for personalised products rooted in Catalan culture. Thanks to ThinkIn 3D, they will be able to scale the project gradually and sustainably.
