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 specific shapes. Since then, inventors, designers and engineers have continued to advance 3D printing technology to make it more effective and commercially available.
Small business owners in the 3D printing industry are entering a growing market; According to a study, the global market for 3D printing products and services will reach more than $37 billion by 2026. If you are interested in starting a new business using 3D printing technology, here are some ideas you can explore.
What is 3D printing?
3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing used to create 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.
3D printers can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the quality and type of printer. There are different types of printers that use different processes. Here are some of the most popular:
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). The most common type of printer at the consumer level uses FDM to form plastic objects through a heated nozzle.
- Stereolithography (SLA). A process in which lasers harden liquid resin into a hardened material.
- Selective laser sintering (SLS). SLS turns polymer powders into solid objects.
- Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). DMLS uses a high-power laser to build objects layer by layer from a metal powder.
- Digital light processing (DLP). DLP uses a digital light projector to cure liquid resin into solid structures.
3D printing business ideas
- Develop prototype
- Art
- custom made
- Footwear
- Collectibles
- Jewelry
- Real estate models
- Product add-ons
- Training on 3D printing
- robotics
As 3D printing technology becomes more accessible, many entrepreneurs are looking for 3D printing business ideas to capitalize on the demand for customized, on-demand manufacturing solutions.
Here are some 3D printing business ideas to consider for your own business:
1. Prototyping
3D printers allow you to create functional prototypes of products you want to make in order to evaluate their structural and visual qualities before spending a lot of money on production. For example, in an episode of the Shopify Masters podcast, entrepreneur Alex Commons talks about how his company Bulat Kitchen used 3D printing technologies to prototype the brand’s premium knives before manufacturing.
2. Art
Graphic designers and sculptors can use 3D printers to create artwork based on their original designs. 3D printing allows artists to create intricate works that would otherwise require a lot of manual effort and time. You can showcase 3D printed art on various online art galleries like Artsy, sell your art on marketplaces like Etsy, or set up your own eCommerce store on Shopify.
3. Customized products
You could look into another business idea that involves custom manufacturing tailored to individual customers. By using 3D printing technology, you have the opportunity to offer customized product versions tailored to your customers’ specific preferences.
For example, you could use 3D printers to make and sell customized eyeglass frames or custom earbuds that fit a specific customer’s face or ear shape. 3D printing is also used in the medical industry for products such as customized prostheses.
4. Shoes
Fashion designers can create shoes using 3D printing tools. Fashion companies can also use 3D printing to create items from more sustainable materials than traditional manufacturing processes, which often rely on resource-intensive materials. For example, shoe company Rothy’s uses innovative 3D knitting technology to create comfortable, washable and environmentally friendly shoes from innovative materials such as recycled plastic.
5. Collectibles
Consider starting a custom collectibles business that uses 3D printing technology to create unique gifts. Popular products include custom-made miniatures and figurines (perhaps of customers’ friends, family members, and pets).
To start your own 3D printing collectibles business, find a specific niche where you can make a name for yourself and identify potential customers who are willing to pay for your items.
6. Jewelry
If you have a passion for jewelry making, you can use metals, waxes, and other materials to 3D print necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Jewelry designers can also create personalized designs for customers.
7. Real estate models
Another 3D printing business idea is to use 3D printers to create detailed models for real estate developments. 3D printers give architects and contractors the ability to create custom shapes that accurately represent potential building concepts.
8. Product add-ons
Using additive manufacturing tools, you can 3D print replacement parts for existing products. For example, you could 3D print missing parts for instruments, toys, or household appliances. You can also use 3D printing to modify existing products – for example by printing ergonomic cell phone cases.
9. 3D printing training
Consider offering classes for hobbyists and local businesses who want to learn how to use 3D printers. If you have a reliable 3D printer and are passionate about the process, offer courses to teach your customers how to use the technology.
10. Robotics
Entrepreneurs can use 3D printers to develop customized robotic solutions for various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare and construction. According to some estimates, the global robotics technology market will exceed $200 billion by 2030, meaning interest in developing robotics solutions is growing. Robotics engineering companies can use 3D printing technology to create robotic parts that require shapes with complex geometries.
Frequently asked questions about 3D printer business ideas
How do I turn my 3D printer into a profitable business?
Is 3D printing a profitable business?
Companies can use 3D printing to create profitable businesses selling art, jewelry, collectibles, or customized accessories. The key to success is finding a market niche and potential customers who are willing to pay for your pieces.
Can I 3D print something and sell it?
Yes, with good design skills and some 3D printing experience, you can print any custom shape from a wide range of materials to sell in person or online. It’s best to create your own unique designs and not replicate existing products as this could lead to copyright issues.
What industries can you use your 3D printing business in?
Entrepreneurs can explore 3D printing business ideas for a variety of industries including retail, manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, construction, and robotics.