3d Printing with Google Maps

Have you ever dreamed of owning your own 3d scale model of the Grand Canyon or the Matterhorn? Well thanks to the Terrainator you now can.

The Terrainator uses Google Maps to help you select your favorite area of terrain. It then creates an accurate scale model and uploads it to Shapeways, ready for 3D-printing. The models are scaled so that the base is 45cm². The cost of the model depends on the volume of material required to make the model. Flatter models are therefore cheaper than mountainous areas, although they are much less fun.

Currently you can buy models from terrain in the western USA, from the UK and from the Alps.

Hat-tip: Google Street View World