How Eyeglass Frames are Constructed in 2022

3D printing is changing the way manufacturers are creating eyewear. This eco-friendly technology is a standout among traditional eyewear manufacturing methods. Why? Because 3D printing allows designers to come up with an unlimited number of unique designs. In fact, there are certain complex designs that are only possible with 3D printing.

One of the greatest benefits of using this method is that it allows for full customization of never-before-seen glasses—one of a kind. Producing these high-quality glasses prevents overproduction and minimizes waste. The ability to customize the frame size and shape to an individual’s face may also make them the most comfortable pair of glasses ever owned.

There are many brands and manufacturers that have applied 3D printing technologies to their production process. Most use polyamide, a plastic that is stiff and resilient. Three brands to highlight are Fitz Frames, Hoet Couture and Glasses USA.

Fitz Frames is an eyewear brand based in Youngstown, Ohio. They sell prescription glasses, blue-light-protection glasses, and sunglasses. Fitz Frames has a remarkable app that allows users to scan their faces while the app captures measurements of facial features. Each frame is printed with the exact dimensions.

Fitz Frames' mission is to make kids feel great about wearing glasses. In the past, they partnered with Vision to Learn, which is an organization based in Los Angeles, California, that provides low-income children with virtual eye exams and helps them get a new pair of glasses.

"At Fitz, we realize that parents are busy. So we want to make buying glasses as easy and fun as possible. " Heidi Hertel, founder of the company, stated in a video, ``Fitz Frames: Our Story."

Being able to print glasses that are accurate in size really helps. Fitz takes thousands of measurements to guarantee a personalized fit. The app is easy to use, even for kids, and the process is very simple.

This technology is more accessible than most tech tools and isn't just for well-known companies. It is uncomplicated for a consumer to print glass frames just by using files uploaded on the web. Some people have taken the opportunity to DIY their own glasses. The expertise of an eye doctor is the only difference here.

Hoet Couture launched a line of laser-printed eyeglasses called "Made in Belgium." The line is made of titanium and consists of 16 models. When it was launched, this was a huge moment for the company. The advanced technology coming from a family-owned company that has been operating since 1945 is revolutionary. The family takes pride in the fact that four years of research resulted in the creation of modernized products that are sophisticated. They also implemented eyeglasses that are anti-allergic and rust-resistant in their product design.

As a part of the Hoet Couture² line, to enhance the features of their first generation of 3D-printed frames, this company offers astonishing embroidery designs. They allow customers to implement platinum, gold, and diamonds in customized eyeglass designs. Hoet has a line of polyamide 3D-printed frames as well.

Hoet Couture is an amazing example of how a traditional brand can take advantage of new tech-driven trends. Brands can truly break through the market just by staying on trend and coming up with innovative designs. 

Janne Kyttanen, a Finnish artist who specializes in 3D printing, assisted Glasses USA, one of the world’s biggest retailers of glasses. The partnership was to help the company launch free at-home 3D-printable eyewear for customers. The files were designed by Kyttanen and could be printed by customers at home for free. It also came with an instructional video to guide them through the process.

The options are unlimited; you can continue buying at luxury stores or try a futuristic approach by printing your own frames. 3D printing is changing how designers, manufacturers, and even consumers are reaching their health and financial goals. 3D printing is innovative. It allows for designs and prints to be more complex and challenges traditional manufacturing processes, which usually have design restrictions. There are many ways to incorporate a new approach to eyeglass frame manufacturing into your next pair of glasses.

How to keep glasses from slipping

While eyeglasses are often considered accessories, they themselves call for accessories too, like cases, wipes or eyeglass nose pads for a better fit and to keep them in place. Our nose pads were developed with an innovative technology that bio-mimics a gecko's setae, the “hairs” on their toes that grant them the ability to defy gravity and cling to vertical surfaces. So no matter what your style, color or type of eyewear, these cleverly developed accessories can help you wear your eyewear with comfort and non-slip confidence.