# Additive Manufactured Crackers The Torq Nutcracker Embodies Modern Manufacturing and Minimalism By Amelia Roblin | Published 2016-10-10 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nutcracker References: [design-milk](http://design-milk.com/exclusive-torq-nutcracker-by-josh-owen-for-othr/) & [othr](https://www.othr.com/products/torq-nutcracker) These days, many consumers are less interested in gimicky objects, and rather in favor of more utilitarian-looking products like this contemporary nutcracker. The old British guard costume of the traditional shell-splitting contraption has become more of a kitschy decorative object, being functionally replaced by an apparatus that is simple, straightforward and foolproof. Using Josh Owen's Torq Nutcracker is easy: a groove in the center of the platform enables you to position and steady even the largest walnuts. The top incorporates a screw-like component that can be turned manually until it applies sufficient pressure on the shell beneath it. The finely crafted pieces are [3D-printed](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ross-lovegroves-door-handles) in matte black steel for a [minimalist industrial look](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bio-fresher) that promises durability too. It's suitable for catering to [protein cravings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tuffnut) outside of yuletide, and it's fit for folks with simple and honest style. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.1/10 - Popularity: 90% | Activity: 86% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Minimalist Design:** The rise of minimalist design presents an opportunity for companies to create functional and sleek products that cater to consumers' desire for simplicity. - **3D Printing:** The use of 3D printing technology enables the production of finely crafted and durable products with a modern industrial look, providing opportunities for manufacturers to create unique and customized items. - **Utilitarian Products:** Consumers' preference for utilitarian-looking products opens up opportunities for companies to design and manufacture functional items that prioritize simplicity and ease of use. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Home Goods:** Companies in the home goods industry can capitalize on the trend of minimalist design by creating sleek and functional products that align with consumers' desire for simplicity and functionality. - **Manufacturing:** The use of 3D printing technology in manufacturing allows companies to produce finely crafted and durable products with a modern industrial look, creating opportunities for innovative approaches to production processes. - **Kitchenware:** The preference for utilitarian-looking products in the kitchenware industry presents an opportunity for companies to design and manufacture simple and easy-to-use tools that cater to consumers' need for functionality. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Automated Countertop Nut Crackers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pelamatic-electric-nut-cracker.md) - [Springy Safety-Focused Nutcrackers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/silicone-nutcracker.md) - [Kitchenware Christmas Crackers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fortnums-1707-crackers.md) - [Branded Beer-Opening Nutcrackers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beeropening-nutcrackers.md) - [Modern Design-Conscious Power Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hoto-36v-screwdriver.md) - [Modern Geometric Artful Grinders](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/twist-collection-1.md) - [Contemporary Pepper Grinder Concepts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zjddg.md) - [Festive Nutcracker Desserts](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/specially-selected-hazel-nutcracker.md) - [3D-Printed Workshop Wrenches](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/workshop-wrench.md)