In the early 1980s, automotive designer Hideo Kodama filed the first 3D printing patent for a rapid prototyping system that uses ultraviolet light to harden materials into specific shapes. Since then, inventors, designers, and engineers have advanced 3D printing technology to make it more effective and commercially viable.
Small entrepreneurs in the 3D printing industry are entering this growing market. According to one study The global 3D printing products and services market size is expected to exceed $37 billion by 2026. If you’re interested in starting a new business using 3D printing technology, here are some ideas:
What is 3D printing?
3D printing is an additive manufacturing method that creates physical objects from plastic, metal, nylon, and other materials. 3D printers use 3D models, advanced scanning techniques, and computer-aided design to create highly complex structures.
Prices for 3D printers can range from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars, depending on quality and type. There are many different types of printers using different processes, here are some of the most popular:
- Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). The most commonly used printers at the consumer level use FDM to mold plastic objects through heated nozzles.
- Stereolithography (SLA). This is a process that uses a laser to harden liquid resin into a solid material.
- Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). SLS converts polymer powders into solid objects.
- Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS). DMLS uses high-power lasers and uses metal powder to build objects layer by layer.
- Digital Light Processing (DLP). DLP uses a digital light projector to cure liquid resin into a solid structure.
3D printing business ideas
- prototyping
- art
- custom products
- shoes
- collectibles
- jewel
- real estate model
- Product add-ons
- 3D printing training
- robotics
As 3D printing technology becomes increasingly accessible, many entrepreneurs are looking for 3D printing business ideas to capitalize on the demand for custom, custom manufacturing solutions.
Here are some 3D printing business ideas for startups to consider.
1. Prototyping
3D printers can be used to create functional prototypes. This is useful for assessing the structural and visual quality of a product before entering mass production. For example, in one episode of the Shopify Masters podcast, entrepreneur Alex Commons explains that his company Round KitchenWe talk about how we used 3D printing technology to create a prototype of a premium knife.
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 complex works that would require a great deal of time and effort to do by hand. You can display your 3D printed artwork in a variety of online art galleries like Artsy, or sell it on marketplaces like Etsy or by opening your own e-commerce store on Shopify.
3. Customized products
You could explore another business idea centered around custom manufacturing tailored to individual customers. 3D printing technology allows us to provide custom versions tailored to our customers’ specific preferences.
For example, you could use a 3D printer to create and sell custom eyeglass frames or earphones tailored to the shape of a specific customer’s face or ears. 3D printing is also being used in the medical industry for products such as custom prosthetics.
4. Shoes
Fashion designers can use 3D printing tools to create shoes. 3D printing also allows fashion companies to create products from more sustainable materials than traditional manufacturing processes. For example, a shoe company Rothy’sis innovative 3D knitting We use technology to create comfortable, washable, eco-friendly shoes from innovative materials, including recycled plastic.
5. Collections
Consider starting a custom collectibles business using 3D printing technology to create unique gifts. Popular products include custom miniatures and figurines of customers’ friends, family and pets.
To start your own 3D printed collectibles business, find a specific niche in which you can establish your presence, and identify potential customers willing and able to pay for it.
6. Jewelry
If you’re passionate about jewelry making, you can 3D print necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings using metals, wax, and other materials. Jewelry designers can also create customized designs for customers.
7. Real estate model
Another 3D printing business idea is creating detailed models for real estate developments. 3D printers enable architects and contractors to create custom geometries that accurately represent potential architectural concepts.
8. Product Additional Features
Spare parts for existing products can be 3D printed. For example, you can 3D print missing parts for musical instruments, toys, or household appliances. 3D printing can also be used to modify existing products. For example, you can print ergonomic phone cases.
9. 3D printing education
Consider offering classes to local businesses and people who want to use 3D printers as a hobby. If you have a reliable 3D printer and a passion for the printing process, you can offer classes to teach your customers how to use the technology.
10. Robotics
Entrepreneurs can use 3D printers to develop customized robotic solutions for a variety of fields, including manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. According to some estimates The global market size for robotics technology is expected to exceed $200 billion by 2030, meaning interest in developing robotic solutions is increasing. Robotics engineering companies can use 3D printing technology to manufacture robotic parts with complex shapes.
3D Printer Business Idea FAQ
How do I turn my 3D printer into a profitable business?
You can use your 3D printer to start a profitable business in several ways, including selling 3D printed art, jewelry, and collectibles. To start your own 3D printing business, conduct market research, develop a business plan, choose a 3D printing technology, and sell your 3D printed products through a trusted ecommerce platform like Shopify.
Is 3D printing a profitable business?
Companies can leverage 3D printing to create profitable businesses selling art, jewelry, collectibles, or custom accessories. The key to success is finding your niche and getting customers willing to pay for your product.
Can you 3D print and sell anything?
Yes, if you have good design skills and some 3D printing experience, you can print custom shapes in a variety of materials and sell them in person or online. It is best to create original designs rather than copying existing products to avoid copyright issues.
What industries can benefit from 3D printing business?
Entrepreneurs can explore 3D printing business ideas across a wide range of industries, including retail, manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, construction, robotics, and more.
