A few exciting new updates mark the next stage of ReCreateIt:
See the TerabotX 2 in Action
As you may have already noticed, a TerabotX 2 3D printing machine has been installed right near the entrance of Austin ReStore. This gigantic 3D printer is constantly at work, and customers can watch products being printed in real time before they make their way onto the shelves next to it. It has quickly become a source of excitement and curiosity among both customers and store staff.
Our New Landing Page Is Live
Next, our new landing page is now live! We've completely refreshed the webpage with new graphics, updated photos, and a more engaging layout to better showcase what ReCreateIt is all about. If you've ever wondered how discarded plastic becomes functional products, this is a great place to start exploring.
As we improve our public presentation, we are also focusing on outreach and community connections. We have not forgotten that our goal is to explore new ways to create functional products from plastic waste while serving the needs of our community and keeping material out of landfills.
Submit a Custom Print Request
Which brings us to our newest feature: custom print requests.
Yes, we take custom requests to print parts and products at an affordable price. Keep in mind that because we only use recycled plastic materials (primarily polypropylene), we do not have the freedom to print highly detailed or extremely complex objects like many commercial 3D printing services. However, we can still create durable and functional products when they fit within the capabilities of our printer and materials.
Before submitting a request, we recommend checking out our Product Gallery. It includes products that we regularly print and sell in-store, along with examples of custom repair parts, prototypes, and experimental projects. These examples provide a good overview of what we can do. For example, if you need a custom lampshade or something similar to products already shown in the gallery, we would be confident exploring that request with you.
Tips for a Successful Request
You can submit a custom request here. After reviewing your request, our team will reach out regarding feasibility, pricing, and other details.
Pro tip: It helps us tremendously if you can provide a sketch (it can be rough and does not need to be professional) or a reference image, along with the dimensions of the item you need, before submitting the request form.
Photos of an existing product or part that you would like us to model after are also extremely helpful. If possible, include a ruler or another object with known dimensions in the photo so we can better understand its size and proportions.
If you'd like to learn more about what we can and cannot print, click here.
If you're more comfortable with handwritten requests, a physical request box will be installed soon right beside the Terabot.
Looking Ahead
We look forward to bringing your ideas to life. Every custom request helps us explore new ways to transform waste plastic into useful products while serving the needs of our community.
And we're just getting started. In the future, we plan to launch design collaborations, volunteer opportunities, and new ways for community members to help shape the future of ReCreateIt. Stay tuned!
