Shapeways just announced Spring with the widely anticipated color dye for 3D printed models. Shapeways combines their cutting-edge 3D printing technology with the best of hand-wrought craftsmanship, so creatives can see their designs in beautiful colors to really get a kick out of every creation. In keeping with the modern, sleek feel of its customers' modern designs, Shapeways selected Limestone, Terracotta and Blue Jean Blue as the premier colors. With the cool, naturalistic feel of limestone, the contemporary vibe of denim, the heat and sophistication of terracotta, the look and feel of the colored models deftly mimic the materials that inspired them. Certain that these colors will be utilized in a variety of innovative and creative ways, Shapeways will soon offer an even greater range of colors to fulfill all 3D printing needs.

The process used by Shapeways is based on dying the material. This is an intensive manual approach which consists of deeply cleaning the printed parts, heating them in a bath of nylon dye, followed by another thorough cleansing of the now-colored objects. This process allows for a deep, intense color that will stand the test of time. The dyeing process adds a level of artisan craft to the advanced technology of 3D printing, but with this hands-on work, slight color differences may occur. The Shapeways colors can be viewed at: http://www.shapeways.com

Shapeways, the world's first 3D co-creation community, brings design to life with cost effective, high quality 3D printing. Shapeways is redefining Do-It-Yourself by connecting consumers to the latest in Rapid Prototyping micro production with easy to use click-and-drag product customization and advanced upload-to-print tools for seasoned 3D designers. Shapeways encompasses a diverse community of artists and enthusiasts engaging in everything from collaborative creation to selling their 3D designs as products through the unique Shapeways Shops, an international marketplace for consumer created 3D printed products.