In the early 1980s, automotive designer Hideo Kodama filed the first 3D printing patent for a rapid prototyping system that used UV light to harden materials into a specific shape. Since then, inventors, designers, and engineers have advanced his 3D printing technology, making it more effective and commercially available.
Small business entrepreneurs in the 3D printing industry are tapping into a growing market. According to one study, the global market for 3D printing products and services is estimated to reach more than $37 billion by 2026. If you're interested in starting a new business venture using 3D printing technology, here are some ideas you can consider.
What is 3D printing?
3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing for creating physical objects from plastic, metal, nylon, and other materials. 3D printing machines use 3D models, advanced scanning technology, and computer-aided design to create highly complex structures.
The price of a 3D printer can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the quality and type of printer. There are several different types of printers that use different processes. Here are some of the most popular ones.
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). The most common type of printer at the consumer level uses FDM to mold plastic objects through a heated nozzle.
- Stereolithography (SLA). A process in which a laser is used to harden liquid resin into a hardened material.
- Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). SLS converts polymer powders into solids.
- Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). DMLS uses high-power lasers to build objects layer by layer using metal powder.
- Digital Light Processing (DLP). DLP uses a digital light projector to cure liquid resin to form a solid structure.
3D printing business ideas
- prototyping
- art
- customized products
- footwear
- collectibles
- jewelry
- real estate model
- product add-ons
- 3D printing education
- robotics
As 3D printing technology becomes increasingly accessible, many entrepreneurs are looking for 3D printing business ideas to take advantage of the demand for customized on-demand manufacturing solutions.
Here are some 3D printing business ideas to consider for your business venture.
1. Prototyping
3D printers can be used to create functional prototypes of products to be manufactured and assess their structural and visual quality before the product is produced at great expense. For example, in one episode, Shopify Master Podcast, entrepreneur Alex Commons talks about how his company Bulat Kitchen uses 3D printing technology to prototype the brand's luxury knives before manufacturing.
2. Art
Graphic designers and sculptors can use 3D printers to create works of art based on original designs. 3D printing allows artists to create intricate pieces that would otherwise require a lot of manual labor and time. You can display your 3D printed art at various online art galleries such as Artsy, sell your art on marketplaces such as Etsy, or set up your own e-commerce store on Shopify.
3. Customized products
You may also consider other business ideas that revolve around custom manufacturing for individual customers. With the help of 3D printing technology, you can offer customized product versions to your customers' specific preferences.
For example, 3D printers can be used to manufacture and sell customized eyeglass frames or customized earphones designed to fit a specific customer's face or ear shape. 3D printing is also used in the medical industry for products like customized prosthetics.
4. Footwear
Fashion designers can use 3D printing tools to manufacture shoes. Fashion companies can also use 3D printing to create items using more sustainable materials than traditional manufacturing processes, which often rely on resource-intensive materials. For example, the shoe company Rothy's uses his innovative 3D knitting technology to produce comfortable, washable, and environmentally friendly shoes made from innovative materials such as recycled plastic.
5. Collectibles
Consider starting a customized collectibles business that uses 3D printing technology to create unique gifts. Popular products include custom miniatures and figurines (perhaps of the customer's friends, family, pets, etc.).
To start your own 3D printed goods business, find a specific niche where you can establish yourself and identify potential customers who will pay for your products.
6. Jewelry
If you have a passion for jewelry making, you can 3D print necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings using metal, wax, and other materials. Jewelry designers can also create personalized designs for their customers.
7. Real estate model
Another 3D printing business idea is to use 3D printers to create detailed models for real estate development. 3D printers give architects and contractors the power to realize custom shapes that accurately represent potential construction concepts.
8. Product add-ons
You can use additive manufacturing tools to 3D print spare parts for existing products. For example, you can 3D print missing parts for musical instruments, toys, and household appliances. 3D printing can also be used to modify existing products, such as printing ergonomic phone cases.
9. 3D printing education
Consider offering classes to hobbyists and local businesses who want to learn how to use 3D printers. If you have a passion for reliable 3D printers and the process, offer classes to teach your clients how to use the technology.
10. Robotics
Entrepreneurs can use 3D printers to develop customized robotic solutions for various sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. According to some estimates, the global market size for robotics technology is expected to exceed $200 billion by 2030, which means that interest in developing robotic solutions is increasing. Masu. Robotics companies can use 3D printing technology to manufacture robot parts that require complex geometries.
3D Printer Business Ideas FAQ
How can I turn 3D printing into a profitable business?
Is 3D printing a profitable business?
Companies can use 3D printing to build profitable businesses selling art, jewelry, collectibles, and custom accessories. The key to success is finding a niche in the market and potential customers who will pay for your work.
Can I 3D print something and sell it?
Yes, if you have good design skills and 3D printing experience, you can print any custom shape from a variety of materials and sell it in person or online. It's best to create your own unique design rather than copying an existing item, as copyright issues may arise.
Which industries can use 3D printing business?
Entrepreneurs can explore 3D printing business ideas for a wide range of industries, including retail, manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, construction, and robotics.
