Local company sponsors community 3D printer

Members at Galway community ‘makerspace’, 091 Labs, are to begin constructing a futuristic 3D printer, thanks to a sponsorship agreement with local business, Right Price Ink.

Right Price Ink, based on Dominick Street Lower, is a one-stop shop for printers, laser and inkjet cartridges and office supplies. The business has pledged €400 to 091 Labs to go towards the construction of the 3D printer.

“This is a non-profit, local, community-led organisation in Galway City and, as a local business owner, it is a privilege to be able to help encourage a movement like this,” said Derek Naughton, manager of Right Price Ink.

“Just like your computer at home can send a 2D document to your traditional printer and out pops a 2D image on a sheet of paper, 3D printers receive 3D models to produce real 3D objects,” explained 091 Labs member Oisin Greaney.

 “This €400 is the start of a new sponsorship drive for us and is a timely boost to our finances and will certainly fast-track our ambitious plans for the space and its members. 3D printing isn’t the only thing we do here. Our members create robots and build arcade machines, control their houses with home automation, and program award-winning mobile applications,” said 901 Labs chairman Pauric Harley.

The 091 Labs makerspace is run entirely by the members and is funded primarily through the monthly membership.