Today we’d like to introduce you to Jazmine Blocker.
Hi Jazmine, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Hi, I’m Jaz, from Jersey! I’ve always been a creative person, but I didn’t necessarily know what that creativity was going to look like professionally. I’ve always loved making things, customizing shoes, fashion, art, and coming up with ideas that I couldn’t necessarily find anywhere else.
My journey into 3D printing actually started with a random gift. I was given a 3D printer, and at the time, I honestly had no idea what I was going to do with it. I just knew I wanted to figure it out. I taught myself how to use my machine through trial, error, countless failed prints, and a lot of experimentation. I became fascinated by the idea that I could take an idea from my imagination, design it digitally, and physically bring it to life. That completely changed the way I viewed creativity. I wasn’t limited to what was already available in stores. If I could imagine it, I could definitely figure out how to make it.
As I continued creating, my work began to develop its own identity. I started incorporating my love for fashion, pop culture, streetwear, nostalgia, and bold design into my pieces. From statement sculptures and collectible figures to functional pieces and custom creations, I wanted my work to feel more like art and fashion than traditional 3D printing.
What started as me simply learning a new skill eventually became a business with a growing community of people who connected with my designs. Along the way, I’ve had the opportunity to work on custom projects, collaborate with brands, celebrities, and create pieces for people who want something completely unique.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t always been a smooth road. One of my biggest challenges has been dealing with the technical side of 3D printing. I’ve had printers break down, hardware issues I’ve had to learn how to fix myself, failed prints, and times when I didn’t have enough materials or resources to keep production moving the way I wanted.
Running a 3D printing business also means constantly troubleshooting, learning, and adapting. A machine going down can completely stop production, so I’ve had to become resourceful and learn how to solve problems quickly. Those challenges can be frustrating, but they’ve also made me much more knowledgeable, patient, and confident in my craft.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’ve never really been someone who could stay in one box. I’ve worked in a lot of different fields throughout my life, from landscaping to government jobs to working with senior citizens, and I’ve always found myself going back to creating something on the side. At one point, I started making sneaker candles, and it blew up quickly on TikTok! Just two weeks after launching them, my candles were featured at New York Fashion Week. That experience really showed me that when I create something that feels like me, it can reach places I never expected.
That same mindset eventually led me to 3D printing. I love being able to take an idea from my head and turn it into something physical and completely original. My work combines 3D printing with my interests in fashion, pop culture, nostalgia, and bold design.
What I’m most proud of is that I’ve never been afraid to try something new. I’ve learned different skills, worked in different industries, started businesses, and continued creating until I found something that really feels like my lane. 3D printing has given me the freedom to create from home, work independently, and build a brand around my own ideas and style.
It hasn’t been an easy journey financially. I’ve personally invested in the shipping, packaging, materials, printer parts, repairs, and all of the other expenses that come with keeping a 3D printing business running. When my printers were constantly breaking down, I took a position in investment banking to create another source of income and continue funding my business.
I think what sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to figure things out. I’ve never had one straight path, and I don’t think I’m supposed to. I’m always creating, learning, and finding the next thing that allows me to turn an idea into something real.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I actually don’t have a mentor right now. A lot of what I’ve learned has been through teaching myself, researching, making mistakes, and figuring things out along the way. I’ve had to learn everything from the creative side of my work to the business side, often just by doing it.
For networking, I think the biggest thing is being genuine and being willing to put yourself out there. I’ve found that connecting with people through my work and being open to conversations and opportunities has helped me grow. I’m still interested in finding mentors and people who can offer guidance, but I also believe that sometimes you have to start before you have someone showing you the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://JBLKStudios.com
- Instagram: https://Instagram.com/jblkstudios
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/jblkstudios
