If we take the definition (or intended meaning) of Fab as the narrow definition of simply “using digital fabrication tools”, then we probably can’t expect to see any further significant developments in Fab as we now live in a time when the 3D printer and laser cutter have become fairly mainstream. Having said that, we are seeing a greater range of projects popping up around the world that are being created in areas where Fab facilities are located. Existing 3D printers and laser cutters are only one of the many Fab methods used today, and in fact almost every artwork and technology in the world such as homebuilt digital fabrication tools superior to currently marketed machine tools, circuit boards such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi, and various new materials integrated with pre-existing handicrafts, are being employed and combined to make new creations. Amidst this landscape, we are once again urged to ask ourselves, “What is Fab?” If there is only one shared aspect among all the various projects, then it would be that they are all seeking a commonality and cooperation between the digital (information world) and the physical (physical world)”? My thoughts at the start of YouFab2016 were that this is the definition of Fab (at this current time) that we would like to put this definition out there. Then, through the contest, it became apparent once again that “the commonalities and collaboration between the digital (information world) and physical (physical world)” are not limited to the technology level only. For instance, in terms of the senses, how do digital lightness and physical weight coexist? And in terms of values, how do we bring together and make something from the “new” of the digital world and “old” elements that have been queried multiple times. Or, in terms of ideas, at what point should we stop the global data flow of the digital world and do away with the local geographical constraints of the physical world? The awards were filled with entries that attempted bring together direct opposites or contrasting elements such as these by making something. The most ideal form or the true worth of Fab is when this type of creativity and questioning (querying) is combined with exploring, experimenting and the process of trial and error on a daily basis. We have learnt to question how we make things, and unlike questioning on paper, if we practice the act of “making” and rethink the questions themselves as we go, it can spin out into something new and we can build relationships with others in the process. In that sense, Fab is a concept that demonstrates the reexamination of the “value of making” something, which differs from the act of “manufacturing”. And, we believe that the output that comes from using Fab is part of the creator themselves. For YouFab2016 we did away with the entry categories and I believe that this has added even more originality to the results this year. Fab still has a long future ahead of it. I think our most significant milestone this year was that Fab has transcended beyond its original definition of the 3D printer and laser cutter. Which leaves us with the question…what’s next for Fab?

It was a pleasure for me to be a judge for YouFab 2016. This challenge is improving each year and I was again impressed by the quality of the presented projects and would like to congratulate all the participants for their creativity. YouFab shows that the Digital Fabrication is an opportunity for everyone to create and innovate. This challenge is the opportunity to show the results of the maker culture and how it is possible to produce things differently in a world where digital fabrication becomes more accessible for everyone. I hope this year’s YouFab will inspire more people to participate or simply do things by themselves.

Being a part of the judging process is a fantastic opportunity to see the cross cultural synergy in digital fabrication on a global scale. The maker culture has revolutionized the way things were made and international competitions like YouFab brought the cultural exchange into the mix which is an important catalyst to inspire out-of-the-box thinking. The definition of fab will continue to evolve with smarter and more intuitive tools and software embedded with artificial or augmented intelligences. As a result, the creative pipelines will become even more dynamic and efficient in the near future. Thanks for all the creativities and positive energy originated by the applicants of YouFab. Let’s return to our roots, give it some time to sink in, and continue our epic quest to future maker!