Subscribe to updates

Do you like 3D printing cool models? So do we! And of course we’ve come across Gabe Rosiak’s (a.k.a. soozafone) incredibly popular – and for good reason – Lucky 13. With over 1,750 makes on Printables alone, to say that it’s found a way to makers’ hearts is an understatement. We especially love the creativity it’s inspired!

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that we’ve reached out to Gabe to learn more about his process for this week’s Designer Spotlight. And it’s not just about Lucky 13; there are also Mini 13 and Dummy 13, a poseable skeleton army, and an articulated spider, among others. So, whether you’ve already got a modular model or two in your workstation or you’re trying to figure out which one to go for, read more about the maker behind these customizable designs to get inspired on how to truly make them your own.

Q&A

All3DP: Tell us a little about yourself – what’s your background?

Gabe: I’m a mechanical engineer by trade, and I’ve always been fascinated by complex mechanical designs. I started designing printable action figures to have a fun “just for me” project that I could work on outside of corporate life.

How do you get the ideas for your designs?

I grew up on Legos and Transformers, and later I got into Gunpla and other mech models. So I think those are a big part of my DNA as a designer. A lot of times I’m trying to design the toys I wish I had as a kid.

How much does the technical side of 3D printing (e.g. supports, a design that requires assembly or one that’s printable in one piece) come into play when you’re designing? Or is your designing entirely independent from 3D printing and you later figure out how they work together best?

Design for manufacturing (DFM) is a huge consideration in my design process. When I start a new design, I’m thinking about how every part will be printed from the very beginning. I love that kind of problem solving, coming up with creative ways to push the boundaries of the system.

Of all the things you’ve created, which are you most fond of and why?

Dummy 13 is my most popular work by far, but my favorite is actually Mini 13. I like that it’s a little cuter, a little simpler. It has some of my favorite community remixes. I think simplifying the base model pushes your imagination to go further with it.

If you could step back in time and give yourself some advice from the beginning, what would it be?

Honestly, “don’t give up commercial rights.” If I had kept a paid seller license system in place for Dummy 13, I’d be a lot closer to reaching my goal of making Lucky 13 Toys my full-time job!