Category

Manufacturing

Mar 21 2025

Redefining Modern Manufacturing: Inside SNL Creative

By 3d printing general, Manufacturing

Redefining Modern Manufacturing: Inside SNL Creative with Lindsey Zindroski

This week on Making Things Fun, Cool, and Sexy, host Christine Holo takes us inside the creative hub of Southern California’s own SNL Creative, sitting down with CEO and co-founder Lindsey Zindroski for an insightful and inspiring conversation.

From 3D-printed basketballs and footwear to camera systems for Avatar: The Way of Water, SNL Creative is more than just a service provider—it’s a design-forward, innovation-driven studio pushing the boundaries of additive manufacturing.

From Software to SLS: Lindsey’s Journey into 3D Printing

Lindsey began her career in enterprise software, working globally in technical support and large-scale deployments. But after co-founding SNL Creative with her husband, she found her passion in product development, customization, and digital manufacturing.

What started as a customizable toy platform—where users could build avatars and receive physical versions by mail—evolved into a full-service design and 3D printing company serving industries like fashion, sports, entertainment, and medical devices.

What SNL Creative Does Differently

While many 3D printing companies focus on speed and prototypes, SNL Creative specializes in full production—offering digital design, prototyping, and end-use part manufacturing under one roof.

But what truly sets them apart is their attention to finish, function, and storytelling. SNL doesn’t just deliver parts—they help brands bring visions to life, with beautifully finished, highly functional products made through advanced 3D printing and post-processing techniques.

Highlights from the Lab

Lindsey walked Christine through SNL’s additive playground, which includes:

  • PolyJet color printing for full-color, photo-realistic models
  • SLS and elastomeric powders for flexible, high-performance parts
  • FDM and CFF printers for strong, lightweight structural components
  • Advanced post-processing for production-grade finish and color

Some standout projects include:

  • The Wilson Airless Basketball, a 3D-printed, fully functional, and lattice-structured basketball that sold out within hours.
  • Footwear innovation, where designers leverage lattice structures to create futuristic, functional midsoles and fashion-forward custom shoes.
  • Avatar camera housings, custom printed for James Cameron’s crew using carbon fiber composites.

Building a Culture That Works

As the California Area Manager for Women in 3D Printing, Lindsey also spoke about the importance of creating supportive, inclusive environments in tech and manufacturing. She emphasized the need for fair pay, leadership opportunities, and work-life balance—especially for women navigating traditionally male-dominated fields.

What’s Next for SNL Creative?

With major growth in the past year—including a new facility, expanded technology, and high-profile production launches—SNL Creative is poised for the next wave of digital manufacturing. From sustainability efforts and material innovation to expanding into new industries, Lindsey envisions a future where additive becomes a cornerstone of how products are made, not just prototyped.

“It’s no longer the future—it’s the present,” Lindsey says of 3D printing. And with leaders like her at the helm, the future looks bold, beautiful, and very much in production.

Mar 11 2025

SNL Creative’s Full Production of Jean Dawson’s “Glimmer of God”

By Manufacturing

The Intersection of Art, Music, and Cutting-Edge 3D Printing

In the world of music, fashion, and digital art, artists are breaking boundaries and exploring new ways to express their vision. The collaboration between Jean Dawson, Totem, and SNL Creative for the “Glimmer of God” headpiece is a prime example of how advanced 3D printing, in-house tooling, and expert craftsmanship can bring an artistic concept to life.

At SNL Creative, we specialize in high-end full-color 3D printing, finishing, and packaging, providing end-to-end production solutions for brands and artists. The “Glimmer of God” headpiece is not just a product—it’s a fusion of music, culture, and next-generation manufacturing that was designed, produced, hand-painted, and packaged entirely at our Cypress, CA facility.

Jean Dawson , Totem production

The Vision: Jean Dawson’s “Glimmer of God”

Jean Dawson is known for his genre-blending music, avant-garde style, and artistic storytelling. The “Glimmer of God” headpiece, released through Totem, extends this creative vision into the physical world—a bold, sculptural statement piece that reflects identity, transformation, and rebellion.

The intricate design of the headpiece demanded a production process capable of achieving hyper-realistic details, durability, and premium aesthetics. That’s where SNL Creative’s full-service production capabilities came in.

How SNL Creative Brought It to Life

From Digital Concept to Fully Produced Product

Totem and Jean Dawson’s team approached SNL Creative with a vision—a digitally sculpted concept that needed to be manufactured, painted, and packaged at scale while maintaining the highest quality.

Using our in-house tooling department and advanced additive manufacturing capabilities, we executed the entire production process under one roof, ensuring precision, consistency, and authenticity in every piece.

The Production Process at SNL Creative

🔹 High-Resolution 3D Printing – We used our industrial-grade full-color 3D printing systems to produce the intricate details and textures of the headpiece.
🔹 In-House Tooling & Finishing – Our custom tooling department ensured that each piece maintained the desired structural integrity and smooth finishing.
🔹 Hand Painting & Detailing – Every “Glimmer of God” headpiece was individually hand-painted by our expert artists, adding a unique, high-end touch to each unit.
🔹 Custom Packaging – SNL Creative handled the entire packaging process, ensuring that the final product was ready for direct distribution—all made in Cypress, CA.

Why SNL Creative Was the Perfect Production Partner

Traditional manufacturing methods would have required outsourcing, high costs, and long lead times, but our end-to-end production model allowed us to:

✅ Produce with High Precision – Our 3D printing technology captured every sculpted detail exactly as envisioned.
✅ Control the Entire Process – With design, production, finishing, and packaging all handled in-house, we ensured quality control at every step.
✅ Create a Handcrafted, Artistic Finish – Unlike mass-produced items, every headpiece was meticulously painted for a premium, custom look.
✅ Manufacture Locally – By producing everything in Cypress, CA, we eliminated overseas production delays and ensured that every piece met our exacting quality standards.

Redefining the Future of Artistic Manufacturing

The Jean Dawson x Totem collaboration showcases how 3D printing, craftsmanship, and full-scale production capabilities can merge to create high-end, limited-edition collectibles.

At SNL Creative, we’re more than just a 3D printing service—we’re a full production partner, helping artists and brands transform digital concepts into beautifully crafted physical products.

Collaborate with SNL Creative

Looking to create custom high-end collectibles, wearables, or artistic pieces? Whether you’re an artist, fashion designer, musician, or brand, SNL Creative has the expertise to bring your vision to life from concept to final product.

📍 Made in Cypress, CA – Serving brands, artists, and designers globally.

📞 Call us today at (714) 420-8957
💻 Visit our website: SNL Creative

🔗 Contact Us to Start Your Project at [email protected]

Mar 11 2025

On-Demand Production: SNL Creative’s Bambu Lab Print Farm Solves Supply Chain Constraints

By Manufacturing

3D Printing for Local Manufacturing in Cypress, CA

In today’s unpredictable supply chain landscape, many businesses in Orange County, Los Angeles, and Cypress, CA face long lead times, rising costs, and overseas delays. If your company relies on traditional injection molding or overseas suppliers, you already know how disruptive material shortages and logistical bottlenecks can be.

At SNL Creative, we’re solving these challenges with our Bambu Lab Print Farm, a high-speed, scalable 3D printing production system that allows companies to manufacture critical components locally, on demand, and in volume—eliminating supply chain disruptions.

Why Local Companies Should Switch to On-Demand Manufacturing

For manufacturers in Cypress, Anaheim, Irvine, and surrounding areas, traditional supply chains often come with:

❌ 6+ week lead times for overseas parts
❌ High minimum order quantities (MOQs)
❌ Expensive warehousing and inventory storage
❌ Uncertainty due to geopolitical issues and shipping delays

With SNL Creative’s Print Farm, you gain full control over your production:

✅ Reduce Lead Times – Get parts in days, not months, with localized production.
✅ Lower Costs – No more bulk orders or excessive warehousing fees.
✅ Increase Supply Chain Resilience – Manufacture parts in Southern California, close to your operations.
✅ Scale as Needed – Our print farm produces thousands of components with flexible manufacturing.

This next-generation approach to manufacturing is perfect for industries that require quick turnarounds, high precision, and production scalability, such as:

  • Aerospace & Defense
  • Medical Device Manufacturing
  • Automotive & EV Startups
  • Robotics & Industrial Equipment
  • Consumer Goods & Product Development

How Our Bambu Lab Print Farm Works

SNL Creative’s 3D print farm is designed for rapid, high-volume, direct-to-part manufacturing. By leveraging advanced automation, multi-material printing, and quality control, we can produce:

✔ Functional End-Use Parts – Durable, production-ready components
✔ Replacement & Spare Parts – Eliminate long wait times for critical components
✔ Custom Low-Volume Production – Ideal for prototyping and small-batch manufacturing
✔ Bridge Manufacturing – Seamlessly transition from prototyping to full-scale production

With ISO 9001 certification, we ensure that every part meets strict quality and performance requirements, making our on-demand manufacturing solution ideal for industries that demand reliability.

Why Choose SNL Creative for Local Manufacturing?

As a Cypress-based company, SNL Creative is positioned to support Southern California manufacturers by offering:

🏭 On-Demand Manufacturing – Get parts fast and locally without supply chain delays.
📍 Local Support – Work with a trusted, Orange County-based partner for direct collaboration.
📦 Rapid Scaling – Whether you need 10 parts or 10,000, we’ve got you covered.
🔬 Advanced Materials & Finishing – Offering a range of high-strength, industrial-grade polymers.

Get Started: Transform Your Production Today

If your company is facing supply chain delays, expensive injection molding costs, or long overseas lead times, it’s time to rethink your manufacturing strategy. With SNL Creative’s Print Farm, you can:

🚀 Reduce lead times from months to days
🚀 Lower costs and eliminate supply chain risks
🚀 Scale production locally and on demand

📞 Call us today at (714)420-8957 to discuss your production needs or request a quote online!

🔗 Contact Us at [email protected]

Oct 30 2023

SNL Creative proudly announces the Addition of DyeMansion’s Powerfuse S and DM60 Full Color Systems

By 3d printing general, Automotive, Manufacturing

SNL Creative has a reputation for developing high value products with Industrial 3D printing. Their vision is where 3D printed products are part of our everyday life. In the next phase of their on demand manufacturing solutions, SNL Creative teams up with DyeMansion to deliver Vapor Polishing and Dyeing across the suite of the AM technologies; Including SLS and FDM.

 

The Power of Vapor Polishing

Vapor Polishing is a post-process technique that evenly relaxes the molecular chains of the surface layer resulting in smooth surfaces.

  1. Improved Aesthetics: A deep dye process with vivid colors that are scratch, UV, and heat resistant.
  2. Enhanced Functionality: Easy to clean sealed surfaces that are resistant to Chemicals. Improves flexibility and durability of 3D printed parts. Reduces part roughness by 80% and Reduces friction by 33.8%
  3. Certified Safe and sustainable: Food and skin contact compliant. A sustainable process for sealed surfaces. FDA certified for your Food and Beverage applications. Prevents parts against bacteria growth. A reproducible and traceable process that is ISO certified for end user applications.

3d printed shoes

The Art of Dyeing

Dyeing is another valuable post-processing technique that goes hand in hand with vapor polishing. It involved adding color to the 3D printed part and offers a set of diverse advantages.

  1. Customization and Branding: Limitless color choices from standard color databases or custom made colors.
  2. Color coding and identification: In industries like health care and manufacturing, color coded parts can be used for easy identification, sorting, and assembly.
  3. Enhance UV resistance: Dyes can provide UV resistance, preventing color fading or degradation when expose to sunlight. This is crucial for outdoor and Long-term applications.

3d printed fashion

The Synergy of Vapor Polishing and Dyeing

When combined, vapor polishing and dyeing yield an impressive synergy that adds value to 3D printed parts. The smooth pristine surface achieved through vapor polishing serves as an idea canvas for dyeing, ensuring the colors are vivid, consistent, and long-lasting. This combination is particularly advantageous for producing consumer goods, intricate prototypes, and industrial components.

3d printed basketball

Aug 21 2023

SNL Creative Partners with Multi-Talented Artist Jim McKenzie for an Exclusive Collectible Collaboration

By Manufacturing

In an exciting collaboration that’s sure to captivate art enthusiasts and collectors alike, SNL Creative proudly announces its partnership with the renowned artist, animator, and film director, Jim McKenzie. This visionary collaboration has brought forth a limited edition collectible that stands as a testament to the fusion of art, innovation, and creative mastery.

The collectible, available for viewing and purchase at Jim McKenzie’s official website www.jimmckenzieart.com, is a true marvel. Comprising sixteen meticulously crafted, removable, and interchangeable parts, this masterpiece invites admirers to explore and interact with its intricacies. SNL Creative’s involvement in the project has ensured that each component is flawlessly rendered, a result of their state-of-the-art manufacturing studio.

The production process, a true testament to SNL Creative’s prowess, was an in-house endeavor from start to finish. Employing cutting-edge techniques, the team harnessed 3D printing to create master patterns, while silicon tooling and castings brought the collectible to life with precision and accuracy. The journey continued with the skilled hands of their in-house fabrication and painting teams, ensuring that each piece emerged as a genuine work of art.

Excitement soars even higher as these collectibles play a pivotal role in Jim McKenzie’s upcoming short film, “Potato Face.” The film unveils every captivating step of the creation process, inviting audiences into the heart of artistic innovation. Scheduled for release in December 2023, the film promises to provide a mesmerizing glimpse into the synergy of artistic vision and technical brilliance.

Art enthusiasts, collectors, and fans of innovation can eagerly anticipate the dual unveiling of both the limited edition collectible and the behind-the-scenes magic in “Potato Face.” Jim McKenzie’s partnership with SNL Creative symbiotic relationship between craftsmanship and creativity, leaving an indelible mark on the world of contemporary art.

As the anticipation mounts, the collaboration between SNL Creative and Jim McKenzie stands as a beacon of innovation, reminding us all of the profound beauty that arises when artistic passion meets cutting-edge technology. With the release date of the short film drawing near, the art world holds its breath in collective excitement—ready to delve into the enigmatic realm of “Potato Face” and experience the masterpiece that is the limited edition collectible. Stay tuned for a journey that promises to redefine artistic boundaries and captivate hearts worldwide.