skeletal 3D printed guitar

the 3D-printed ‘RP guitar’ by one 61 design studio and consultants

a 3D printed guitar is not itself a novel idea, but the difference is in the details, and the ‘RP guitar’ by new zealand design and prototyping company one.61 offers a visually interesting design in its tendon-like instrument. each guitar is fully customizable, as well as unique, as the designers remove or insert various segments from the 3D model before each printing, with colour likewise selectable prior to production.

the use of polymer as a viable possibility for guitar production came to derek manson (director of development at one.61) upon watching a metallica DVD that showcased kirk hammett’s plexiglass ‘wavecaster’ guitar. the pickup mounting of the ‘RP’ is composed of CNC machined wood to offer improved acoustic quality.

closer views

a guitar in use

the bridge, pickups, and other components are screwed directly into the instrument

visualization of the fact that 3D printing offers the instant customization of colours, tendon design, and other factors

concept sketch and 3D renders (front and back)