A few years ago it would have seemed like science fiction, but the ability to create 3D objects from an office printer is now a reality.

And Bermudian-based office supplies company Tops Ltd has added a number of the printers to its range.

Ed Faries, vice-president of sales and service, acknowledged that 3D printing at the moment has a relatively finite market, but he believes businesses such as architectural firms and designers could quickly make use of the technology.

Customers have been curious and impressed when they have seen the printers in operation at the business in Mill Creek Road, Pembroke.

“It is still difficult for many people to comprehend that a printer can actually create almost anything in 3D. But it is being used in manufacturing and design around the world,” said Mr Faries.

“I still find it impressive how much we can make ourselves right in our office in a matter of hours.

“We sometimes have one of our 3D printers making an item in our reception area. When people are here shopping and see it moving and printing, most of them still marvel at how an object begins to appear right in front of their eyes. It could be a house, or a hand, Christmas ornament, a toy, almost anything. It’s fun to watch, but of course it does take a while.”

The technology has been around for a number of years, but today is more mainstream as printers have evolved and become quicker.

Mr Faries remembers seeing 3D printing demonstrated on a TV show, where a working plastic adjustable crescent wrench was created and used to tighten a nut.

“3D has definitely been of interest to us for some time. However, opportunity knocked when our key brand, Konica Minolta partnered with 3D Systems and entered the market. So we decided to add a couple models of 3D printers to our line-up as well,” he said.

The printers at Tops can create objects in plastic or nylon, and Mr Faries sees many possible uses as people become better acquainted with the technology and its abilities.

Students have been quick to embrace the technology, with one school printing out a student-designed drone and a bubblegum machine, while another student printed a replacement boat part to fix his sailboat.

“Schools find 3D printers are very beneficial to teaching. It seems you really can get children hooked on design class when they can actually see their designs come to life right in front of them. It just does not get old when you can watch a design, particularly your design, become a reality,” said Mr Faries.

He is aware of someone on the island with a 3D printer who has been making prosthetic hands at low cost for people in need.

“Really good of him. If anyone ever needs help with anything like that or similar, and they have access to the software design, let us know. We’ll give it a try to help as well if we are able.”

As for the future of 3D printing in Bermuda, he said: “I expect 3D will catch on here in architect firms or with interior designers and the like.

“They may want 3D printers to produce a scaled model of their client’s new home. They will better show exactly what their client’s home will look like before building it. After the home is built, the client can have the model as a keepsake. I have seen some people get a painting done of their house but who has a 3D model of their house?

“Other categories of designers could possibly use 3D to design or make their crafts or for jewellery design or for difficult to source parts.”