Just so that you know, 3D printing is not a new concept. The innovation is pretty old with decades of industrial presence. It is credited with an unbeatable revolution in the manufacturing and digital industries.
Even more, it is bound to be the next big side hustle. Thus, we thought it would be a good to discuss how to make money with a 3D printer with our readers.
Despite the potential and opportunities that 3D printing presents to the manufacturing and entrepreneurship world, many people remain green about it. Which implies that there are a limited number of businesses in this field. Of course, in spite of the many years of presence.
What does that mean to you? Is it an advantage or disadvantage to you as a creative, budding manufacturer or entrepreneur? There’s a void for you to fill. We are certain that you can’t go wrong.
So, wake up from the slumber and make money from your skills in 3D printing. The budget is relatively small. Besides, you can do everything from the comfort of your home.
What Is A 3D Printer?
A 3D printer is a unique printing device that uses filament or resin to create objects. The filament may often contain particles of metal, rubber, wood, or any other manufacturing materials.
The capabilities of 3D printers vary from one machine to another, depending on their specifications. Interestingly, the variation lies in quality, efficiency, and precision.
It is also essential to note that 3D printmakers print based on designs. And, before they begin to filament layers to create an object, these machines print a base on which to build the 3D objects.
3 Vital Steps For 3D Printing
Look, 3D printing is an intricate process. However, you can efficiently perform anything on a 3D printer once you acquire a few skills and muster the essential steps. The followings steps are crucial;
- You need to input a design file. There are two options. You can opt to download design templates or make your designs if you have the right skills.
- Select the material you intend to use. The material selection is based on availability and compatibility with your 5D printing machine.
- Finally, set the device to accommodate the object design and dimensions. You will need to calibrate the machine for possible troubleshooting.
Top 3 Tips On How To Make Money With A 3D Printer
Multi-million dollar industries continue to churn out impressive prototypes. But while we understand that you can’t match their capacity in production, expertise, and worth, it is possible to make money from low-scale 3D printing through the following means.
Print And Sell 3D Objects
There is a lot of demand for 3D objects across the globe. So, why not design, print, and sell 3D printouts? You can easily find customers for these products in your city. Alternatively, you can sell items online through social media platforms or an e-commerce website.
Learn to start small and grow with an increase in your customer base. Homemade crafts and products never seize to be in demand. Some of the most popular objects that you can create, sell, and make good money from;
Customized Jewelry And Beauty Products
The world is always running short of impressive beauty products. Every day, people want to look startling in impressive jewelry and beauty products. Interestingly, you can easily make most of these items from the comfort of your living room.
Items such as fake nails, earrings, and necklaces are perfectly easy to make with an excellent 3D printer. These items are in high demand by people of all gender and age. More enticingly, don’t take long to design and print, yet they have an incredible profit margin.
Home Decorative Objects
Home décor techniques have gone to the highest level. And, who wouldn’t love a stylish home? 3D printed décor items such as toothbrush holders, beautiful vases, classy clocks, and homemade curtain rings are in high demand. The trend isn’t going to stop. Seize the moment and make money from it.
Kids Toys
Your kids love toys, don’t they? Well, if they don’t, then I am confident that you know other kids who love toys. Millions in the world do, and that’s why there are toy shops nearly everywhere. Don’t sell toys like the rest. Instead, use your 3D printing skills to make and sell toys of various sizes and types.
Movie Props
Toys belong to kids, but movie props are serious stuff. Fans across the world like owning props from movies they cherish. Think about the iron man suit and what it could cost as a prop. Some models are simpler to create, while a range of others will require more expertise. Again, they come in different sizes, but once you are done, you’ll smile to the bank.
2. Produce Rapid Prototypes For Local Companies
Large engineering businesses and firms have perfected the art of producing prototypes. You can as well approach local or relatively small manufacturing industries with the idea of helping them manufacture prototypes.
But that is only possible if you have the right designing and 3D printing skills to meet the high expectations. Explain to them that 3D printing is more accurate, faster, and cheaper. Of course, companies looking for the right technology already know this.
The remuneration is remarkable. Yet, all you may need to put into the work is your time and skills. Not millions in running costs.
3. Provide 3D Courses
Are your skills commendable to the extent that you can confidently and correctly teach 3D courses? If that’s the case, then you can as well pass your knowledge and skills to others. Of course, at a fee. Skills are easier to sell than it is to sell end products.
This sounds farfetched, but the primary reason why there are no 3D classes in local towns and cities is due to a lack of knowledge of 3D printing. For example, what percentage of the people you know understand this technology?
Start by advertising your services. Social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, among others, will come in handy. You can as well organize seminars and conferences to let people know what 3D printing entails.
Final Words
If you have been thinking of seeking long-term employment by starting your own business, then 3D printing is an incredible initiative.
The field is not overexploited, like most ideas are. Moreover, the cost of making money through 3D printing is not as enormous. All you need is a sound knowledge on how to make money with a 3D printer and a viable business plan.