The 3D printers represent a revolution in production, and it is not a surprise for such hype over these devices in recent years. The main advantage is that 3D printing can be used in different industries like medicine, the automotive industry, robotics, AI technology, education, and more. The main benefits are flexibility, convenience, speed of production, accuracy, affordability, and more. Therefore, it is not a surprise that many people are interested in starting a business with this printer.
In that matter, this can be an excellent way to create additional income. You can buy a decent model for around $5,000, which is a great option for start. Also, if you don’t have any experience with the process of 3D printing, you can read about this device at 3dprinterworld.co.uk. In this article, we are going to present you with some of the best ways where you can invest in 3D printing as a side hustle.
Main Features of 3D Printer
This model of manufacturing is using advanced methods and software where you can achieve high accuracy. Also, depending on the model, you can process different materials like metal, plastic, wood, and more. This is an automated process where you can create the object in digital format, and the machine will create the same replica in the printer.
Source: forbes.com
We can notice that this option is becoming more popular in recent years in many industries. The developers are also improving these printers by adding more capabilities and higher quality, especially when it comes to speed, ability to process different materials, and incredible precision.
How To Start Business With 3D Printing?
There is great potential when it comes to this business. However, it is crucial to determine the right niche. Therefore, you should consider your knowledge and experience, along with various other factors to select the right option. Here are the most popular niches for this model of business.
Industrial Printing
While it offers a chance to make the most out of this model, the main issue is related to higher risks of failure. Also, you will have to invest a lot more than in most other types of printing. However, you can avoid risks by making a reliable analysis of the market, which can help you to determine the industry with higher demand, where you can position your business properly. For instance, you can create a partnership with some big companies and produce some parts for them.
Scanning and Printing
For this option, you will need an additional scanner. The main benefit is great flexibility since you can make tools, replicas of toys, parts for the vehicles, accessories, authentic products, and more.
3D Molds
This trend is becoming more popular in recent years. You can use your machines to create molds that other owners of these printers could easily attach to make certain products. Still, this option requires high knowledge.
3D Modeling
Source: edynamiclearning.com
This is the most common option, and it can be seen in various industries. The reason for the high demand is that you can make prototypes of various projects and present them in public. For instance, the model of the building, vehicle, interior design, and much more. It is much cheaper and faster for engineers to introduce some new product with this method.
Print on Demand
This is very attractive for many people, just as the standard print-on-demand option. Many people have some great ideas related to 3D modeling. However, they don’t have enough money or time to deal with these advanced machines. Therefore, they are interested in businesses where they can order the particular product by sending the model of it. For example, if you need a certain design of some product for your store, this is a great solution. Also, it can be quite cheaper than ordering it from merchants.
Toys
These options offer the most flexibility, and the great thing is that you can create an online store, and make some unique toys to sell them there. If you are creative enough, you can make a successful business from it.
Finding Clients is Simple
With the expansion of online platforms, most businesses today are using the internet to communicate with their clients. There are some websites specially designed to connect businesses and customers. That is a great solution since making a website and optimizing it to be more popular requires a lot of time and effort.
Therefore, you can choose platforms like Fiver, Treatstock, Shapeways, 3D Hubs, Ponoko, and more. These online platforms provide you with the ability to quickly find clients and sell your products and services. On the other hand, it is always a good idea to try making some authentic products and create a unique brand. You can start by selling these items on Bonanza, eBay, Facebook, Etsy, and more.
Source: yourbigbusiness.org
Is It Affordable?
It depends on your ideas. You can find cheaper models for under $500, but you have to know that there will be some limitations related to quality and speed of processing. On the other hand, models with a price of around $5,000 should be capable of advanced processing.
However, if you don’t have any experience, maybe the more affordable model is the best solution since you can learn more about modeling and printing in practice. Besides that, you have to consider additional expenses on tools and materials required for manufacturing the models with this machine.
Last Words
There are many modern methods of starting a business or a side hustle. There are many possibilities when we can use the internet to promote our products and services for free over social media or other online platforms. When it comes to 3D printing, you should create a plan and check various niches to see if you have a good chance to start a successful business that will secure an additional income.
You should focus on being more unique and try to offer high-quality products for a decent price. Also, keep track of current trends since that can help you to avoid mistakes and be more effective in this sphere.
