A collaboration with Exploro, a metalsmith based in Oakland, California. I worked with Exploro to design this ring and built the 3D prototype model seen here.

Having both grown up in Hawaii we share an appreciation for the island’s culture and mythology. The design is inspired by the Hawaiian god, Ku ka‘ili-moku, aka the island eater.

We went through many iterations for the look, feel and fit. The engraved text provided challenges for 3D printing and required some trial and error to get resin mold just right for silver casting.

Profits from the 1st printed series have been pledged to Exploro family members on Maui, who lost their home in the Lahaina fire on 08/08/23.

3D Modeling

  • Text wrapping to curvature

  • Precise fitting to finger spacing

  • Custom fonts used as boolean cutouts

Supports & Slicing

  • 3D files setup in slicer software

  • Multiple sizes placed within printing volume

  • Printing supports

3D Prints

  • Multiple sizes tested

  • Array of sizes

  • Faux wood surface treatment

UV Curing

  • Curing resin prints with supports

  • Supports removed

  • Resin cast closeup

Cast Silver

  • Resin prints in casting flask

  • Silver rings on a sprue tree

  • Single ring attach to sprue