From Your Unborn Fetus to Nail Art, See What You Can 3D Print Now

We knew 2014 would be a huge year for printing, and barely two months in we are not disappointed. Even our Bots here at Brit + Co. have been busy filling Brit + Co SF with the sweet waffle-y smell of freshly-printed 3D goodness. From serious advancements in medicine to at-home printing hacks we could watch on YouTube all day, take a look at some of the latest 3D printing projects.

1. Surgeon Draws New Cells: The BioPen is a mini printer that might soon bring 3D technology into the ER to help regenerate cartilage in anything from sports injuries to age-related degeneration. The pen (which was made using a printer as well) acts like a handheld 3D printer to deposit gel made of stem cells and biodegradable seaweed extract in layers right at the site of an injury. An ultraviolet light on the pen sets the gel in place, and then the cells can multiply to form functioning tissue.

2. Digital Natives Sculptures: Created in 2012, these were on display for oo-ing and ahh-ing at this year’s New York 3D Print Show. To make these beautiful works of art, household items were 3D scanned using a digital camera and subjected to algorithms that distorted them into new forms and printed. We’ll take one in every size, color and shape, thank you very much.

3. Print Your Unborn Fetus: In news that will not creep you out at all (okay, maybe a tiny bit), you can now submit your 3D or 4D ultrasound images or newborn baby photos to receive a “unique artistic representation of your baby” using 3D printing in sizes: “mini,” “halfsize” or “lifesize.” Aww?

4. 3D Printed Skis: 3D printing company Stratasys has carved out a new way to hit the slopes that we give a 10. Taking into account the basic requirements of modern skis, they created a pair of fully functional (as in, they’ve taken them for a few test runs already) pair using custom tooling designed in SolidWorks. The snow may not be up to par this year, but at least your skis could be — if this catches on, skiers and boarders could purchase equipment tailored directly to their exact specifications.

5. Music Box: Remember the little music boxes of your childhood that you would up to play a song while a ballerina spun around? This is like that only cooler. You compose a little 16-note ditty and get it printed into a music box that will play the personally penned song when you turn a small crank.

6. 3D Printed Sugar Sculptures: The Sugar Lab creates these sweet sculptures by using a simple printing process. An alcohol and water mixture prints out in layers that hardens into a sugary substance. The edible works of structural spun sugar art could pop up as the cake toppers and centerpieces of the future. In fact, the Sugar Lab is currently concocting a 3D printed sugar stand for a four-tiered wedding cake.

7. 3D Printed Nail Art: The Laser Girls created these cool nails to rock New York 3D Printshow’s runway and you’ll be able to snatch up a set soon in their Shapeways store.

8. Air Hockey Robot Project: Please stop all entries for Coolest Dad of the Year Awards — Jose Julio takes the title for 2014 after creating an air hockey robot for his daughter using parts of a 3D printer and a PS3 Eye connected to a PC. Make your own at home and vy for second place using his tutorial here.

9. Printed Corset: Here’s hoping custom fit lingerie leads the 3D printing fashion revolution. Until then, you can download the STL files for this Muse Corset on Thingiverse or design your own for a more perfect fit.

10. 3D Printed Valentine: Cupid had to get creative this year with new technology taking over the Valentine’s Day gift field and we love this sweet-and-geeky take on the card. It might be belated at this point, but you can create this part science experiment, part craft project card using LEDs, coin cell batteries, bare conductive paint, copper foil tape and a 3D printer.

11. Bring Mark Home Early: Remember when we told you about Mark, the world’s first carbon fiber 3D printer? His ship date just got moved up, so take that $4,999 you’ve been saving for a rainy day and pre-order your Mark One today to receive mid-year.

12. At-Home DC-Motorized Printer: Experts say we will all have 3D printers in our homes within the next five years, but RAPPY was hoping to shorten that timeline with a Kickstarter campaign for their $699 high-resolution 3D printer that runs using a DC motor commonly found inside toys. Unfortunately, the campaign ended over the weekend when they came up short on their funding goal of $100,000. Learn more about RAPPY and stay up-to-date on their status here.

What 3D printing news of 2014 has you most excited so far? Share it below!

October is quickly winding to a close — but it's not over yet! While we may want November and all its cheery Holiday goodness, we have to welcome Scorpio season first. This mysterious (and often misunderstood) sign is coming in hot to continue all those transformational vibes October Theory has everyone musing on. So, here's what you can expect in your weekly horoscope for October 20-26. Be sure to read for both your sun and rising sign!

Astrology Breakdown For Your Weekly Horoscope

Darina Belonogova

The main event this week is the Sun’s move into the sensual, deep, and intense sign of Scorpio on October 22. This shift offers us all the opportunity to live life on a more profound level. We are reminded to delve deep into our psyches to confront any issues lurking in the recesses of our minds and hearts. Scorpio loves to uncover hidden secrets and is eager to excavate our challenges and bring them to light. Let’s embrace this potential for transformation by scheduling an appointment with a therapist, committing to deep conversations, and exploring any issues that may be veiled from clear sight. Scorpio thrives on mysteries and seeks to clarify anything obscured. Take advantage of this time for genuine transformation.

Support for these transformations comes from Mercury, the planet of communication and intellect, which is forming a beneficial trine with Saturn, the planet of responsibility and hard work. Saturn provides structure, enabling us to establish routines and commitments. Any endeavors requiring communication and diligence are well-supported by this alignment between Mercury and Saturn.

Victoria Strelka_ph

On a lighter note, Venus is in Sagittarius until November 12. Regardless of Venus's placement in your chart, we can all feel the expansive love energy this combination brings. You might notice an increase in flirtation and a renewed sense of being in love with life. Use this time to channel your enthusiasm into seeking new experiences and learning new things. Explore with your partner and friends how you can combine your dreams to support each other’s growth. Be open to adventures, but remember that the need for freedom might be prominent, so avoid smothering each other. Ensure everyone feels free to pursue their own adventures and interests.

On October 24, Mars forms a sextile with Uranus, enhancing the Venus in Sagittarius energy, encouraging us to embark on adventures outside our usual routines. Trust your instincts before taking radical actions, as this combination can lead to risk-taking. Our drive for spontaneity might create discomfort for those of us who are more cautious. Tread lightly, but this powerful alignment could spur us to experience life in a more exciting way.

Key Dates For Your Weekly Horoscope

Maksim Goncharenok

  • Sun moves into Scorpio on October 22
  • Mars forms a sextile with Uranus on October 24
  • Venus is still in Sagittarius until November 12

Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs

Brit + Co

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

You are poised to explore your subconscious this week, Aries. Take advantage of the ease with which you can access your inner psychology. The challenge may arise from an unwillingness to be open and vulnerable with others. Let go of your bravado and defenses. If you don’t already have a therapist, muster your courage to find one who complements your personality—someone who challenges you and encourages you to break through your barriers.

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Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

While you're usually the steady one in the group, Taurus, this week you might feel an impulse to step out of that staid role. Though you’re not typically a risk-taker, trust your instincts if you feel compelled to do something unconventional. Allowing yourself some freedom can alleviate the restlessness you feel. Bold actions may awaken important parts of yourself that you usually hide or don’t acknowledge. Be bold and courageous.

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Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Your love life could receive a boost this week, Gemini. You may meet someone very different from your usual crowd, perhaps even someone from another country. Be open to the exotic on all levels, whether it’s trying a new restaurant or visiting a museum showcasing another culture. You might also find yourself drawn to stores specializing in imported goods to beautify your home. Whatever happens this week, exposure to something or someone foreign will add excitement to your life.

Brit + Co

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

As always, your emotions are in focus right now, Cancer. You will feel compelled to act on your emotional experiences, but your challenge will be to moderate them and learn from the depths without drowning in them. Get creative as you explore these emotions. Talking might not be the best way to sort through your profound awareness. However, you cannot keep everything inside; it must be expressed. Do you have an artistic outlet? If not, perhaps you will feel inspired to explore that part of yourself. Join an art class or singing group—it’s best to process this with the support of others.

Brit + Co

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

If you’ve been avoiding therapy, this week presents an opportunity to excavate issues buried in your psyche, Leo. Matters related to family or your origins may surface, allowing you to safely explore your experiences. Therapy will be especially fruitful. If you don’t have a therapist, confide in someone close who knows you well and can listen with an open heart. Use your innate courage to break through anything blocking your development.

Brit + Co

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Virgo, you're gonna wanna get your journal out! What you reveal through writing will be nothing short of brilliant. Establish a routine by writing daily and incorporating healthy activities. Your relationships may require dedication similar to work, but if you attend to your self-care, that work will be rewarding. This week, your superpower is your ability to express yourself clearly. Use it to your full advantage in all areas of your life.

Brit + Co

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Write in your journal whatever comes to mind, Libra. This week is about expressing yourself with sensitivity and compassion. Your feelings are rich, full, and accurate. Writing will help clarify the messages your emotions convey. However, in your professional realm, keep your feelings out of your communications. Maintain an objective view and double-check your emails for accuracy. Edit and revise everything you share with the world. Writing requires effort, but with focus and attention to detail, you will benefit from sharing your thoughts.

Brit + Co

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

This is your time of year, Scorpio! Of all the signs in the zodiac, you're the most complex. What traits do you value most in yourself? Now is a good time to evaluate your expressions and amplify the parts of you that promote healing for yourself and others. Dig deep into your reservoir of strength and pull out the tools you’ve honed. You are not one to settle for anything superficial or mundane. Perfect your creative expression and work towards tangible goals. Use your words wisely to achieve your aspirations and inspire others to pursue theirs.

Brit + Co

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Get creative with how you express your love, Sagittarius — don’t confine yourself to what you’ve always done. Reach beyond your imagination, keeping your beloved’s love language in mind. Be aware that you may be prone to exaggerated actions and words. While I’m not suggesting you hold back your brilliance, be sensitive to those around you; not everyone shares your exuberance or desire for freedom. There are many ways to express love and that adventurous spirit you embody. Strive to inspire others while maintaining awareness of their experiences.

Brit + Co

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

This is an excellent time for creativity, Capricorn. Allow yourself to become immersed in the creative process, as it will help you understand the interconnectedness of all things—seen and unseen. Write down your dreams and pay attention to flashes of insight that arise during your creative endeavors. Open yourself to new ideas; this is a time of inspiration akin to a spiritual awakening. Be mindful that it may come to you in unique and unusual ways.

Brit + Co

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

You're at the beginning of a pivotal time, Aquarius. This is not the moment to disengage from your everyday reality but rather to fully engage with it. Keep your eyes wide open; your perceptions are keen, and what you observe changing within yourself and around you will inform how you respond. Consider your values and what is important. Realize that what is required may involve routine, discipline, and structure—though it might not look like traditional routines. Stay focused on your goals. If you don’t yet know what your goals are, you still have time, but don’t check out. Remain present.

Brit + Co

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

You're a magnet for uplifting those around you and serve as an inspiration, Pisces. Your intuition is accurate and can guide you this week. Do what you love, spend time with those you cherish, and surround yourself with beautiful things. Buy flowers, wear jewelry that makes you feel good, and carry crystals in your pocket for extra protection and connection to uplifting energies. Listen to music that resonates with your higher self. Conversely, avoid negativity, steer clear of dark people and places. You are in a receptive state, so ensure you are both receiving and emanating light and positivity.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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In our Take 5 series, sponsored by Verizon, we ask women in business about unexpected challenges, their inspirations, recent wins, and how the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program has helped propel their business forward. Here, we meet Therise Edwards, founder/CEO of Teshley Solutions, an education consultancy firm that helps students and families navigate the complexities of the education system K through 12.

What is an unexpected business challenge that you faced and how did you overcome it?

I wouldn't call myself a FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid) expert, but I ended up having to know a lot more about it than I ever anticipated. FAFSA is what administers Pell Grants, which is what a lot of colleges base their financial aid on. I knew about the application changes, and some were excellent, but they made a series of critical errors and a lot of parents were scrambling. It was not my intent to have this as my area of focus; it just became a necessity.

What's a recent small win for your business?

Recent small wins are my collaborations. I formed partnerships with one organization that focuses on students with special needs. I hosted a webinar with the executive director of that organization. I formed a partnership with members from an insurance company on planning and paying for college. That was my first corporate sponsorship. And I've got a series of events coming out because others actually reached out to me. One of them I met through another networking platform, but I got to that platform from one of the sessions that I did with Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program.

How did you start to collaborate with external partners?

Just changing my strategies and my approach, and just being more secure and more emphatic in making connections. It ends up being this continual cycle.

Is there a woman in business that you admire or that you look up to?

I have two. Leontyne Anglin, who runs a nonprofit called Beyond Expectations. She works with a small pool of students, but she just gives them enormous exposure and opportunity. She's brilliant with collaborating with individuals and businesses and really bringing the students what they need. And then the other on a bigger scale is Cate Luzio, founder and CEO of Luminary, who taught her Business Plan Bootcamp through the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program. She is just a dynamo. She is just so supportive of women entrepreneurs. She's awesome.

How did the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program help propel your business forward?

All of the collaborations and partnerships with the exception of one all came from joining the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program. I’ve taken all of the free classes and the one on projections and pricing, something every entrepreneur struggles with, was very helpful. There have been so many of them. Sometimes you're completely ignorant in a category so you take the class and it's like, okay, that's good to have. But then sometimes you sign up for it and it's like, oh, yeah, I did know 90 percent of that, but this other 10 percent is going to be very, very helpful.

Learn more about the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program and Teshley Solutions.

Illustration by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces


The only thing I want to do with Halloween right around the corner, doesn't involve trick-or-treating, haunted houses, or going to parties. It involves me, a bag of popcorn, a movie, my couch, and a deliciously cozy loungewear set that I can keep on all day. Truly the picture-perfect evening, IMO!

Since I've become a couch potato, loungewear sets appear to be my specialty — and I've accumulated a lot as of late. They're just the best for laying around your house, doing chores, working from home, or even running errands! Here are all my favorite loungewear sets to shop right now, so you can also be a comfy, CUTE couch potato this fall!

Amazon

MEROKEETY Women's 2 Piece Lounge Sets

Starting off with the stitched Amazon fave that you'll be obsessed with — I know I am! This would look absolutely adorable paired with some comfy Ugg slippers or Birkenstock clogs! That way, you can be comfy while you run your errands like popping in to Trader Joe's for some pumpkin snacks or going to Target for the most perfect autumnal candle.

Target

Auden Cozy Rib Pullover

Target is my happy place during the fall (and always — let's be real). I look forward to every October where I can grab my PSL from Starbucks,and browse the aisles for endless autumnal home decor that I surely don't need, but will definitely buy anyway. This set from Target is just another perfect example of that. It screams ultimate coziness, and its the perfect neutral shade of brown that I love in fall.

Amazon

Gap Cash-Soft Sweater

Gap has just been absolutely killing it lately — and this loungewear set is no different! It's made out of a cashmere-like material called "cash-soft" that Gap uses, and I'm not joking when I say this stuff is heavenly. It's truly so luxurious, and makes you feel like you're wrapped up in a blanket all day. Who doesn't love that? Plus, it's in one of our trending colors for fall!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Sunday Sweatsuit

There hasn't been a single piece from Abercrombie lately that I haven't added to my cart...everything they're doing is just so good. This chic loungewear set will give you the ideal elevated and sporty streetwear look that would be amazing styled with some trending sneakers and a slouchy tote bag!

Target

Auden Cozy Sweater Set

A good short, sweater set is one of my favorite types of loungewear — it lets me get cozy without feeling too hot if I decide to leave the heater on. This one is perfect for me as a California gal, because it never gets too cold here in the fall! Can't you just picture this one with some tall socks, Uggs, reading glasses, and a book or a scary movie? I want it now!

Amazon

PRETTYGARDEN Women's 2 Piece Outfits

Another Amazon set, because they're just so convenient, cute, and affordable! This one has the stitch detailing again that I just love so much. It really makes the set look more elevated and high-end. It will have everyone saying, "It's from Amazon?! No way!" Pair with some chunky sneakers and a messy bun!

Nordstrom

Dippin Daisys Polka Dot Short Set

Do NOT try to tell me polka dots are just for the summer, because you're wrong! Wrong I say! Brown polka dots are especially perfect because they're just so darn cute and autumnal. I love this set for just gallivanting around the house, maybe working from home, or making some yummy pumpkin-themed treats. Too cute!

Reformation

Reformation Kiera Wide Leg Sweat Suit

What better loungewear set for the month of October than this super cute burnt orange option? It's the perfect set to get you in the mood for spooky season, while looking positively adorable. I love the simplistic styling of this one with flats and maybe a sweater thrown over the shoulder for another cozy addition.

Nordstrom

LIVD Plus Size 3-Piece Set

We love extensive sizing, and this one offers so many additional sizing options. This plus size set is one of my favorites because of all the pieces it comes with. The set includes pants, a crop top, and a long duster cardigan! We love the sound of that! Make sure to grab this one in the amazing dark blue color.

DONNI

DONNI Pointelle Knit Set

DONNI is one of my favorite new brands that's come out in the past couple of years, not only because of how high quality their pieces are, but also how timeless they are. This pointelle knit set only further proves that point! I love how it can be worn casually, but also dressed up for a sweet, brunch look. Absolutely adore this set!

Nordstrom

Free People Malibu Sweater Set

If your style leans more on the bohemian side à la Vanessa Hudgens, then we have the perfect set for you! Look no further than this set from Free People. It will give you that bohemian chic look but with a cozy twist of course. BRB adding this one to my cart for fall immediately!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Lace and Pointelle Matching Set

Every gal needs a cozy set that makes her feel sexy and cute, and this one will definitely do that for you! It's made of pointelle which is so cute and comfy, but also has a bit of a sexy touch with the lace. You can grab this set for less than $100 at Abercrombie & Fitch!

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