Editor’s Note
This article provides a foundational overview of 3D printing technology, explaining its core additive manufacturing process and introducing common printer types like FDM. It serves as a useful primer for understanding the basic principles and market landscape of this transformative technology.
3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing that creates physical objects from materials such as plastic, metal, and nylon. Machines use 3D models, advanced scanning technology, and computer-aided design to create highly complex structures.
3D printer prices vary widely, from tens of thousands to millions of yen, depending on quality and type. Here are the most popular types of 3D printers:
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): The most common consumer-grade printers use FDM to form plastic objects through a heated nozzle.
Stereolithography (SLA): SLA printers use a laser to cure liquid resin, turning it into solid material.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): SLS printers transform polymer powder into solid objects.
Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS): DMLS printers use a high-power laser and metal powder to build objects layer by layer.
Digital Light Processing (DLP): A digital light projector cures liquid resin into solid structures.
As access to 3D printing technology increases, many entrepreneurs are exploring 3D printing business ideas to capitalize on the demand for customized, on-demand manufacturing.
Here are 3D printing business ideas to achieve your first sale:
1. Prototyping
You can use a 3D printer to create functional prototypes of products you intend to manufacture. This allows you to evaluate structural and visual quality before investing in production.
Combining these prototypes with 3D product rendering software allows you to view and edit designs in a virtual space. You can iteratively adjust shape, texture, and color without investing in physical prints.
2. Customized Products
By leveraging 3D printing technology, you can customize products to fit customers’ specific preferences.
For example, you can use a 3D printer to manufacture and sell custom-made eyeglass frames or earbuds that fit individual customers’ faces or ears. In the medical industry, 3D printers are also used to create items like customized prosthetics.
3. Footwear
Fashion designers can use 3D printing tools to manufacture shoes. Fashion companies can also utilize 3D printing to create items using more sustainable materials than traditional manufacturing processes.
For example, footwear business Rothy’s uses 3D knitting technology to create comfortable, washable, eco-friendly shoes from innovative materials, including recycled plastic.
4. Collectibles
Consider starting a collectibles business that uses 3D printing technology to create unique gifts. Popular products include custom miniatures or figurines of customers’ friends, family, or pets.
To start a 3D printed collectibles business, find a niche and identify customers willing to pay for your items.
5. 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.
6. Art
Graphic designers and sculptors use 3D printers to create artworks based on original designs. 3D printing facilitates the realization of complex pieces that would be time-consuming and labor-intensive by hand.
You can display 3D printed art on online art galleries like Artsy, sell art on marketplaces like Etsy, or launch an e-commerce site on Shopify.
7. Product Value-Add
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, or home appliances.
It’s also possible to use 3D printing to modify existing products. For instance, you can print ergonomically designed smartphone cases.
8. 3D Printing Education
Consider offering classes for hobbyists or local businesses wanting to learn how to use a 3D printer. If you own a reliable 3D printer and understand the process, you can offer workshops to teach clients how to use the technology.
9. Robotics
Entrepreneurs can use 3D printers to develop customized robotic solutions for various fields such as manufacturing, healthcare, and construction.
One estimate suggests the global market size for robotics technology will exceed $200 billion in the near future, indicating growing interest in robotic solutions. Robotics engineering firms can utilize 3D printing technology to manufacture complex-shaped robot components.
10. Smartphone Cases
3D printed smartphone cases are promising because many people own smartphones and most need protective cases.
Business Research Insights predicts the global smartphone case market will exceed $15 billion in the coming years.
Cases are small and have low production costs, allowing for inexpensive creation of individual designs. Furthermore, by utilizing an e-commerce platform like Shopify, you can sell smartphone cases online to anyone.
11. Interior Decor
Interior decor is a growing market, expected to reach $139 billion. Markets like the US and Germany offer many business opportunities.
Examples of products you can sell:
- Custom centerpieces for weddings and events
- Artistic statement pieces
- Custom-made items by interior designers
- Sustainable and eco-friendly decorations
These items can be printed on demand, so you don’t need to hold much inventory.
12. Medical Models and Training Tools
3D printed medical models and devices facilitate the creation of accurate anatomical replicas for surgical planning and training. The market is growing rapidly and is predicted to reach $16.5 billion soon.
Unlike mass production, using 3D printing allows doctors to customize parts inexpensively. Opportunities include:
- Patient-specific surgical guides and anatomical models (the fastest-growing segment)
- Custom prosthetics and implants (expected to reach $1.9 billion in the near future)
- Training tools for medical education
- Specialized bioprinting applications
💡 Note: This technology business idea requires HIPAA compliance and explicit FDA approval for clinical use.
13. Architectural Models
Architectural models help builders and clients visualize projects before construction. They can be physically held and examined, not just viewed as on-screen designs.
There are several ways to generate revenue in this field:
- Create AI-generated models for architects and real estate developers.
- Create models with removable parts to show building interiors.
- Collaborate with designers to create detailed project mockups.
- Quickly update models when designs change.
14. Gaming Accessories
Gamers generally prefer personalized accessories and are willing to pay for them. Mordor Intelligence predicts the gaming accessories market will grow from its current $13 billion to over $21 billion within a few years.
You can create custom miniatures for role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, design special storage cases for popular board games, or partner with indie game developers to produce official merchandise.
Since every gaming group or player has different needs, there is always demand for new designs.
15. 3D Printer Rental
Entry-level or hobbyist printers range from $300 to $900, while premium models can cost over $20,000. Another way to make money with 3D printing is by renting out the equipment.
You can create a 3D printing facility where others can rent the machines. Your facility would provide the machinery, workspace, and expertise, charging customers an hourly or monthly fee.
What types of materials can be used for 3D printing?
Different materials are used for different purposes in 3D printing. Here are some options and their uses:
- PLA (Polylactic Acid): Decorations and toys
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Durable parts and prototypes
- PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): Sturdy, water-resistant products
- TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): Flexible items like smartphone cases
- Nylon: Highly durable, functional parts
- Resin: Detailed miniatures and jewelry
- Metal Filament: Metallic finishes
- Carbon Fiber Composite: Strong, lightweight objects
How long does it take to print an object?
Small objects like smartphone cases print in 2-4 hours, while large or detailed items can take over 24 hours. Print time depends on size, complexity, layer height, and print speed settings.
How can I make a 3D printer a profitable business?
You can make money with a 3D printer in several ways, such as selling 3D printed art, jewelry, or collectible items. Before making your first sale, conduct market research, develop a business plan, and choose your 3D printing technology.
Then, sell your 3D printed items through a reliable e-commerce platform like Shopify.
Is 3D printing a profitable business?
Companies can profit from 3D printing by selling art, jewelry, collectibles, and custom accessories. The key to success is finding a market niche and identifying customers willing to pay for your work.
Can I 3D print and sell anything?
Which industries utilize 3D printing?
Entrepreneurs can explore 3D printing business ideas for various industries, including retail, manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, construction, and robotics.