[3D Printing Applications] 3D Printing Creates Playful Molds: Technological Dessert Artist Dinara Kasko
It's been great to see the Ultimaker 3D printer on social media , blogs, and live streams. Pastry artist Dinara Kasko has been showcasing her "geometric desserts" for some time now, and her innovative use of 3D printing to create exquisite cake molds has us eagerly awaiting an interview with her. So how exactly are her desserts made?
Please briefly describe yourself.
My name is Dinara Kasko, and I'm from Kharkiv, Ukraine. I've been interested in different types of art since I was a child and have always enjoyed drawing and creating with my hands. After graduating from university with a degree in architecture, I worked in 3D vision for several years; about five years ago, I became really interested in baking, and dessert making was a completely new challenge for me. 
What initially attracted you to 3D printing ?
About three years ago I started using 3D printing . A friend of mine runs a local maker space and has a lot of interesting tools, including a 3D printer . Eventually, I decided to try creating my own pastry molds—a way that combines my interests in design and baking.
My posts on Instagram printed using Ultimaker always get the most attention; 3D printing has a "wow!" kind of focus, and I think that's what people like; 3D printers mean a lot to me—that's how I became famous!
Many people think I print my molds, but that's not the case—I print the main body and then use silicone to make the molds that the desserts will ultimately use. 
Why do you choose Ultimaker 3D printing to create your molds?
Initially, I ordered 3D printed models from maker spaces, but I quickly found it to be very expensive, so I decided to buy my own 3D printer . Before buying, I searched online for the keyword: " Ultimaker is the iPhone of 3D printers." To me, this meant no worries about stability, and everything would work smoothly. I decided to use the Ultimaker 3 Extended because it was the easiest to use and the best fit for my needs. I called the local service center in Ukraine and placed an order immediately; it arrived within two days! Now I can print anything I want, however I need.
I like the Ultimaker 's stylish look, bright color, and efficient size; for me, the most important thing is print quality and speed. I don't need complex small objects, but I print very large models—so the printable size is also very important; in addition, the smoothness of the surface must also be taken into account.
Of course, there have been alternative methods for pastry making in the past, such as creating the main model using gelatin, plaster, and other materials. I've even tried CNC milling, but it's more expensive and complex, and sometimes it can't cut intricate shapes; however, this can be easily done with a 3D printer , so I've found that 3D printing yields the best results. 
How does your design process work?
When I create new molds, I don't need any extra decorations because they are the design elements themselves; I've always been a big fan of minimalism and love using sharp lines and geometric shapes.
The process from initial idea to final dessert usually takes several months, divided into several stages, some of which can be done simultaneously. First, I research recipes and experiment. Simultaneously, I use 3D modeling and printing to test molds, making modifications and reprinting after initial production of cakes or tarts; repeating this process until I achieve the perfect 3D result. It's very rare to produce a perfect cake on the first test, which is the most valuable aspect of 3D printing . 
When designing molds, I visualize the final appearance of the dessert and then create a 3D model of the main body on the computer. I enjoy researching different software and choosing my own approach, such as using 3DS Max; I also collaborate with another parametric designer who uses programs like Rhino or Grasshopper.
I used Ultimaker Cura software for 3D printing , and used Ultimaker PLA filament and Ultimaker PVA support material for printing. Using PVA in some designs was very effective because it allowed for the creation of more complex molds and their assembly.
After 3D printing , fill the mold with silicone and prepare to start making the cake. It is important to let the mold and its filling cool and solidify. After that, I can remove the silicone mold and decorate the cake or egg tart with glaze or velvet.
(Image courtesy of pastry chef's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinarakasko/ )
Are there any plans to further expand the business in the future?
My website currently sells molds, and 3D printing is a very useful part of the process. The first batch of molds were handmade, but now I'm mass-producing them; this wouldn't be possible without Ultimaker and 3D printing, which allows me to test each mold to ensure its usability before going into mass production, so no money is wasted. I also really want to help the studio create interesting projects and attract talented people to complete them.
We're delighted to see such innovative applications on social media. If you also love these beautiful and delightful artworks, you can follow her on Instagram below. If you'd like to create your own products, we also offer high-quality printing services . We will continue to share new technologies and events related to 3D printing in the future, so please follow our fan page for the latest news.
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/3dmart.com.tw/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/dinarakasko/
WEB: http://www.dinarakasko.com/
Original link: https://ultimaker.com/en/blog/52694-in-the-spotlight-dinara-kasko-pastry-artist?utm_campaign=coschedule&utm_source=facebook_page&utm_medium=Ultimaker&utm_content=In%20the%20spotlight:%20Dinara%20Kasko,%20pastry%20artist%20|%20Ultimaker
[3D Printing Applications] 3D Printing Creates Playful Molds: Technological Dessert Artist Dinara Kasko
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