3D Selfies: How ni2 Transformed Employee Gifts with Additive Manufacturing

Self‑portraits have long been a staple of personal expression, but with 3D printing, they’ve evolved into tangible, personalized keepsakes. This breakthrough is reshaping corporate gifting, as demonstrated by Pune‑based design firm ni2.

About ni2

ni2 specializes in design services, software development, technical support, and technology consulting, serving a predominantly defence‑industry clientele. Their portfolio spans development, porting, maintenance, testing, customization, optimization, and integration—delivering cost‑competitive solutions that reduce overall production expenses.

Personalizing Gifts with 3D Printing

Recognizing that traditional corporate gifts often lack a personal touch, ni2 chose to honor its 500 employees with custom 3D‑printed self‑portraits. This initiative leveraged Divide By Zero’s Accucraft i250D printer, enabling rapid, low‑volume production of unique, high‑quality prints.

From Scan to Print

Each employee’s face was captured using a 3D scanner to produce a full‑360° model. The Accucraft i250D then translated these scans into physical self‑portraits, delivering a personal memento that is both memorable and cost‑effective.

Key Takeaways for the Industry

• Low‑Volume Production Excellence – The project demonstrated how to manage 500 unique prints efficiently, a model applicable to any boutique manufacturer.
• Employee Engagement & Skill Development – The hands‑on process fostered teamwork and familiarized staff with cutting‑edge additive manufacturing.
• New Business Opportunities – Success in internal gifting opened a pathway for ni2 to offer personalized gifting solutions to other enterprises.

These 3D‑printed selfies not only saved on costs compared to mass‑produced gifts but also delivered a tangible symbol of appreciation that resonated with every recipient.

Explore further insights on 3D printing and additive manufacturing on our blog.