Development of Art Toy Prototypes Using 3D Printing Technology for Souvenir Products in Chanthaburi Province

Abstract

              This research aimed to: 1) study the development of art toy prototypes using 3D printing technology; 2) develop Chanthaburi Province souvenir products in the form of art toys; and 3) experiment with mold-making for commercial production. The research methodology consisted of a documentary study and related literature review, along with a survey of 400 tourists in Chanthaburi Province, selected through convenience sampling. A questionnaire was employed as the research instrument, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

              The results revealed that consumers placed the highest importance on souvenirs reflecting local identity (71.50%). When thinking of Chanthaburi Province, the respondents most commonly associated it with fruits (50.50%) and gemstones (30.50%). The preferred art toy style was cute and vibrant (43.00%), with purchases intended for collection (69.00%). The appropriate price range was 301–600 Baht (71.50%). Based on these findings, a “Durian” character was designed to convey the local identity of Chanthaburi Province.

              In terms of production, the findings showed that a resin-based 3D printer could create highly detailed prototypes with smooth surfaces, suitable for silicone mold making. From testing three types of silicone—RA-T40AB, RA-20AB, and RA-320—it was found that RA-320 was the most suitable for commercial production due to its low cost, high flexibility, and ease of demolding.

              The findings indicate that integrating 3D printing technology with local identity can effectively transform art toys into creative souvenir products and further develop them for commercial production.