3D printing is quite a new technology but is becoming more widespread across multiple industries. It stands to revolutionise a lot of how we manufacture goods. Including things like property as they have now 3D printed houses. Much like the technology boom of the late 90’s, early 2000’s, as technology improves prices will come down.

Currently there are a number of different ways you can take advantage and make money from the relatively young industry:

Create bespoke items to sell. Much like handmade crafts, you can design items which are unable to be found elsewhere. However with 3D printing you can create the design once and then let the machine create the item as many times as you need. This is great if you have a creative flare. Some examples would be unique home decor items, jewelry or figurines which sell really great on Amazon and eBay . You can do this on your own 3D printer or use a service such as the ones listed below to print your items. The benefit of using an online service to print your designs is that you can get access to a much wider range of materials. Of course this will cost you more in the long run than having your own 3D printer.

Print other peoples designs. Once you have a 3D printer you can offer your service to printing other peoples or companies designs. This can be done by building your own website and placing ads on social media to offer your service.

Design products. If you didn’t want to invest in a 3D printer you can upload your designs for people to download and use on their 3D printers. Or you can offer your design services on a freelance basis to other companies for products they need. There are vast number of industries that employ the use of 3D printed parts. These include medical, robotics, drones, gaming, architechture, aerospace.

Extra Cash 

If you get a 3D printer, you can film filming your 3d printer creating objects and uploading it to YouTube or stream it live on Twitch. People love to watch gadgets and technology on social media.

Sites to use

Amazon – Buy a 3D printer and sell the items you create.

eBay – Sell items you create with your 3D printer.

Shapeways – 3D printing on demand. Founded in 2007.

i.materialise – Upload your 3D model, choose from 100+ different finishes and materials