Did you know the 3D printing market is growing fast? It’s expected to be over $37 billion by 2026. This is a big chance for anyone with a 3D printer at home. You can sell 3D prints on Etsy or offer special 3D printing services.
There are many ways to make money with your 3D printer. In this article, I’ll show you 10 ways to do it.
Whether you’re new to 3D printing or have been doing it for a while, this guide is for you. It will give you tips and examples to help you make money from 3D printing. Let’s find out how you can make your 3D printer earn money!
Can You Really Profit with a 3D Printer?
How much money you can make with a 3D printer depends on what you sell. Selling to general customers might not make you much money. But, selling to people who need special things can be more profitable.
For example, someone who wants to make a new product might pay a lot for a 3D print. This is because they need something special. It’s better to find services that cost more but are needed by a few people.
Some good ideas for making money with a 3D printer include:
- Rapid prototyping for businesses and entrepreneurs
- Custom 3D-printed art, decor, jewelry, and toys
- On-demand 3D printing services for individuals and companies
- Selling digital 3D designs (STL files) on platforms like Turbosquid, PIXUP, and MyMiniFactory
- Dropshipping 3D printing equipment and supplies
By focusing on these special services, you can make money with a 3D printer. It’s also important to give great service and find new ways to make money. This way, your 3D printing business can grow.
| Online Marketplace | Description |
|---|---|
| Etsy | A popular platform for selling handmade and custom 3D-printed products to consumers |
| Shapeways | An online 3D printing service that allows users to sell their own 3D-printed designs |
| Thingiverse | A platform for sharing and downloading free 3D-printable designs |
By looking into different ways to make money with a 3D printer, you can find good opportunities. This way, you can start a 3D printing business and take advantage of the growing demand for this technology.
Best Entry-Level 3D Printer for Beginners
If you’re new to 3D printing, the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K is great for you. It costs $349.99. This 3D printer is loved by hobbyists and miniatures fans for its 4K printing.
The Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K is a cheap way to start 3D printing. It lets you try out projects and business ideas. It’s perfect for beginners wanting to explore 3D printing.
If you’re looking to spend less, check out the affordable 3D printers. The AnkerMake M5C is $199.99 after a $100 discount. The Creality Ender-3 S1 Pro is $276 on Walmart, down from $699.
Finding the best 3D printer for beginners depends on your needs and budget. Look at these 3D printer recommendations to find the right one. It will start your 3D printing adventure and open up new possibilities.
Selling Pre-made 3D Prints on Etsy
Many people are now selling 3D printed items on Etsy. This is because 3D printing is getting cheaper and easier to use. You can sell things like D&D miniatures, planters, and vases. There are lots of chances to make money with 3D printing on Etsy.
To do well on Etsy, make sure your items are top-notch. Also, give great service and take nice photos. Don’t just try to be the cheapest. Instead, make your items special with unique finishes or designs.
3D printing lets you make lots of different things. You can make toys, jewelry, home decor, and even gadgets. By making unique items, you can build a successful Etsy business.
| Popular 3D Printed Products on Etsy | Average Price Range |
|---|---|
| Flexi Octopus (Personalized) | $15 – $25 |
| Personalized Soap Dishes | $10 – $30 |
| Fidget Toys | $5 – $15 |
| Flower Pots or Planters | $8 – $20 |
| Personalized Keyrings | $5 – $12 |
By using 3D printing and Etsy, you can make a lot of money. It’s a great way to turn your hobby into a business.
Offering Specialized 3D Printing Services
I love 3D printing and found a great way to make money. Instead of printing for everyone, I focus on special areas. This makes my work better and my clients happier.
Some top areas for 3D printing are miniatures, toys, jewelry, architecture, and engineering. People pay more for prints that meet their exact needs.
Architects and engineers need precise models. Jewelry makers want detailed prints. Being the best at these helps me charge more and keep clients coming back.
I also offer extra services like painting and metal plating. These add value and make my business stand out.
| Service | Average Pricing | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| 3D Printing (Plastics) | $12 per job | 1-3 hours |
| 3D Printing (Metal) | $150 per job | 5-10 hours |
| Painting/Finishing | $25 per hour | 2-4 hours |
| Moldmaking | $100 per mold | 4-8 hours |
Starting a 3D printing business needs a big investment. But, focusing on special areas can be very profitable. It helps me make a steady income from 3D printing.
Starting a Local 3D Printing Business
Starting a local 3D printing business is tough but can be very profitable. I know because I started one in New York City. There’s a big demand for these services. But, many struggle to make money, showing the need to be different.
To be unique, offer more than just 3D printing. You could paint, mold, or plate metal. It’s key to find clients who value quality over cheap prices. Also, building a good reputation and teaming up with other businesses can help.
The 3D printing market is growing fast, with a 25% yearly increase for five years. This makes many want to start a 3D printing business. But, know the costs, like for printers, materials, and software.
Starting costs can be from $1,000 to $10,000. This depends on what you offer and how you market it. Learning to design and finish models can make your business special, offering more to clients.
About 65% of 3D printing services for businesses come from engineers. They need help with industrial, electrical, or consumer goods. Knowing about different materials can make you a go-to partner for them.
Having a strong online presence is crucial for your local 3D printing business. Use the right platforms and focus on quality. With the right plan, you can grow your business as the demand increases.
Selling Your 3D Printing Designs
You can make money by selling your 3D printing designs online. Places like Cults3D, CGTrader, Pinshape, and MyMiniFactory let you sell your 3D models. These sites are great for 3D printing fans and businesses.
Popular designs include miniatures, game pieces, cosplay items, tools, and jewelry. You can earn 70-92% of the sale price. This makes selling designs a good way to earn money if you’re good at designing.
Marketing your designs to tabletop gaming fans is a smart move. They love 3D printed miniatures and game pieces. Knowing what they want helps you make designs that sell well.
To sell your designs well, make sure they look great. Spend time improving your design skills. Use the best software and techniques.
Also, make your product listings interesting. Include detailed descriptions and nice pictures. This helps people see how great your designs are.
| Marketplace | Commission Rate |
|---|---|
| Cults3D | 70-92% |
| CGTrader | 70-85% |
| Pinshape | 70-85% |
| MyMiniFactory | 70-85% |
Using these 3D model marketplaces can help you reach more people. This can lead to a steady income from your designs. With quality designs and the right marketing, selling your designs can be a profitable side job or even a main business.
Starting a YouTube Channel
Starting a YouTube channel about 3D printing can be very profitable. People who love 3D printing look for tutorials and reviews. You can share your knowledge and earn a lot of money, like Uncle Jessy did.
To make a great 3D printing YouTube channel, you need to post high-quality videos. These videos should be helpful and interesting to your viewers. This can lead to more money, like from ads or selling your own products.
To start, follow these steps:
- Find your special area in 3D printing, like for beginners or advanced users.
- Get good equipment, like a camera and lights, to make your videos look professional.
- Plan your videos, mixing fun and useful content to keep your viewers happy.
- Use the right words in your video titles and descriptions to help more people find them.
- Talk to your viewers by answering comments and asking for their thoughts.
- Look into ways to make money, like YouTube’s Partner Program or selling products.
By starting a 3D printing YouTube channel, you can share your knowledge with the world. You can also make money by monetizing your 3D printing knowledge.
| Key Factors for a Successful 3D Printing YouTube Channel |
|---|
| Consistent, high-quality content |
| Targeted niche within the 3D printing space |
| Engaging and informative videos |
| Optimization for search engine visibility |
| Interaction and engagement with the audience |
| Monetization through YouTube’s Partner Program, affiliate marketing, and sponsorships |
Selling Online 3D Printing Courses
If you know a lot about 3D printing, you can teach others online. Instead of basic lessons, teach how to make money with 3D printing. You can charge more for your advanced knowledge.
Places like Udemy, Skillshare, and your own site are great for selling courses. More people want to learn about 3D printing online. In fact, there’s been a 45% increase in course enrollments recently.
To be noticed, make a detailed course. It should cover:
- Choosing the best 3D printer for your business
- Learning design software and making money with 3D models
- Setting good prices and finding clients
- Growing your 3D printing business with more ways to earn
- Using online stores to sell 3D printed items
By teaching your 3D printing knowledge, you can help others make money. This way, you can earn well from home with the right course and marketing.
“The demand for customized 3D printed products is on the rise, with a survey indicating that 68% of consumers are willing to pay a premium for personalized items.”
So, use the growing interest in 3D printing to teach others. It’s a smart way to monetize your 3D printing knowledge and help others succeed in this fast-changing field.
Ways to make money with a 3D printer at home
The 3D printing market is growing fast. It’s expected to hit over $37 billion by 2026. This makes it a great time to explore ways to make money with a 3D printer at home. Whether you’re new or experienced, there are many 3D printing side hustles and 3D printing business ideas to try.
Selling 3D prints on Etsy is a popular choice. You can keep up to 92% of your sales. You could also offer special 3D printing services like design help or printer repair. Starting a local 3D printing business is another good idea, as more people want easy access to 3D printing.
If you’re good at 3D design, you can sell your designs online. You can use marketplaces or YouTube to show off your work. Teaching online 3D printing courses is another way to share your skills and earn money.
If you don’t want to buy a 3D printer, you can rent it out or sell your used one. You could even write a book about 3D printing to share your knowledge.
To succeed with a 3D printer at home, know what your local market needs. Use the special features of 3D printing to your advantage. By exploring these ways to make money with a 3D printer, you can make your 3D printing hobby into a business.
| 3D Printing Side Hustles | Potential Earnings |
|---|---|
| Selling Pre-made 3D Prints on Etsy | Up to 92% of sales (excluding processing fees) |
| Offering Specialized 3D Printing Services | Varies based on expertise and client demand |
| Selling 3D Printing Designs Online | Depends on platform and popularity of designs |
| Renting Out Your 3D Printer | Hourly or daily rates based on market demand |
| Writing a Book on 3D Printing | Royalties and potential for passive income |
The best 3D printers for beginners are easy to use. They can make almost anything you can imagine. With the right plan and hard work, you can make your 3D printer a profitable side hustle or business.
“The key to success with a 3D printer at home is to identify the specific needs of your local market and leverage the unique capabilities of this transformative technology.”
Renting Your 3D Printer for Events
Renting your 3D printer for events might seem like a good way to earn extra money. But, experts say it’s not a smart move. 3D printing is slow and takes a lot of time. This makes it hard to meet the quick needs of events like weddings or company parties.
A 3D printer takes minutes to make even simple things. This can make guests unhappy if they don’t get their items on time. It’s also hard to make money like a photo booth does.
The idea of renting 3D printer or offering 3D printing event services might sound cool. But, the tech has big limits for 3D printing for parties and other events. It’s smarter to look for other ways to make money, like selling prints or teaching online.
The 3D printing world is always changing, with new ways to make money popping up. By keeping up and adjusting your business, you can make your 3D printer a steady income source. Just avoid event services, as they can cause more trouble than they’re worth.
Selling Your Used 3D Printer
3D printers are getting more popular. This means you might make money by selling used ones. Look for deals on used 3D printers, fix them up, and sell them online. People might sell their 3D printers because they don’t use them anymore.
But, making money from selling 3D printers isn’t always easy. The market can change fast. Newer models might make it hard to sell your printer for a good price.
Before you start selling used 3D printers, learn about the market. Know what people want and how much they’re willing to pay. Also, keep up with new 3D printing tech. This helps you find the best models to sell.
Selling a 3D printer might not be a steady job. But, it can work if you’re careful and patient. Keep learning and be ready to change your strategy. This way, you can do well in this competitive field.
Writing a Book on 3D Printing
Use your 3D printing skills to write and self-publish a 3D printing book. You can make money from book sales on places like Amazon. Self-publishing 3D printing lets you share your knowledge with many people.
Even a simple 3D printing logbook can make money with little effort. Find a need in the market and fill it with useful content. This way, you can make money by sharing your 3D printing knowledge through a book.
| Book Details | Statistics |
|---|---|
| Title: 10 Ways to make money with a 3D printer at home | Publisher: CreateSpace |
| Author: Jeffrey Ito | ISBN-10: 1512250767 |
| Publication Year: 2015 | ISBN-13: 9781512250763 |
| Genre: Architecture, Design, Drafting, Drawing & Presentation | Number of Pages: 34 |
| Format: Trade Paperback | Ratings: 66 |
| Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.1 inches | Reviews: 10 |
This book is the “#1 Amazon Bestselling 3D Printing Book”. It talks about seven ways to make money with a 3D printer. It also has a 2015 3D printer buyer’s guide and info on 3D CAD modeling software. It’s a great resource for starting a 3D printing business or making extra money.
“Even a ‘low content’ project like a 3D printing project logbook can generate passive income with minimal upfront work.”
Conclusion
3D printing is a fast-growing field with lots of ways to make money from your skills. You can sell 3D prints, offer special services, or make content and courses. These are all ways to make your hobby profitable.
Finding a profitable niche is key. You need to get good at it and offer something special. This way, you can earn more and make your business a success.
If you want to start a 3D printing business or just make money with your skills, there’s a lot you can do. With the right plan, hard work, and creativity, you can make the most of this exciting technology.
FAQ
What are the best ways to make money with a 3D printer at home?
You can sell 3D prints on Etsy. Or offer special 3D printing services. Start a local 3D printing business too.
Make money by selling your designs. Start a YouTube channel. Or sell online 3D printing courses.
Can you really profit with a 3D printer?
Yes, the 3D printing market is growing fast. It’s expected to hit billion by 2026. You can make more money by focusing on special services.
What is the best entry-level 3D printer for beginners?
The Phrozen Sonic Mini 4k is a good choice. It’s affordable at 9.99 and prints in high resolution.
How can I sell pre-made 3D prints on Etsy?
Etsy is great for 3D printed items. Offer unique, high-quality prints. Give great customer service and take good photos.
Don’t just compete on price.
What kind of specialized 3D printing services can I offer?
You can offer services like making miniatures, toys, jewelry, or prototypes. Add services like painting or metal plating to charge more.
How can I start a successful local 3D printing business?
Offer more than just 3D printing. Add services like painting or molding. Find high-value clients and build a local reputation.
How can I make money selling my 3D printing designs?
Sell your designs on sites like Cults3D or CGTrader. In-demand designs are for miniatures, game pieces, and tools.
How can I monetize a 3D printing YouTube channel?
Create valuable content for 3D printing fans. This can lead to ad revenue, sponsorships, and selling products.
What kind of online 3D printing courses can I sell?
Teach courses on making money with 3D printing. Sell on Udemy, Skillshare, or your own site.
Is renting out my 3D printer for events a good way to make money?
No, it’s not reliable. 3D printing is too slow for events, making customers unhappy.
Can I make money by selling my used 3D printer?
It’s a possible income stream. But it’s not as reliable as other ideas.
Can I make money by writing a book on 3D printing?
Yes, self-publishing a 3D printing book can earn you royalties. Sell on Amazon.
