Are you interested in getting your designs turned into physical objects through 3D printing? With the growing popularity of this technology, it’s becoming easier to find 3D printing services that can bring your ideas to life. Whether you’re a hobbyist, entrepreneur, or engineer, there are options available to suit your needs and budget.
So where can you get 3D printing done? There are a variety of options to consider. You can choose to invest in your own 3D printer for personal use or for your business, or you can opt for a professional 3D printing service. These services can range from local shops to online marketplaces that connect you with 3D printing companies around the world. The choice ultimately depends on your preferences and requirements. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular options for getting your 3D printing done.
Online 3D Printing Services
If you’re looking for a 3D printing service that can bring your designs to life, there are plenty of options available online. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Shapeways
Shapeways is a well-known 3D printing service that offers a wide range of materials to choose from, including metals, plastics, and ceramics. They also offer a variety of finishes, such as polished, matte, and glossy. You can upload your 3D design to their website, and they will print and ship it to you. Shapeways also has a community of designers that you can connect with to get inspiration and feedback on your designs.
i.materialise
i.materialise is another popular 3D printing service that offers a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and resins. They also offer a range of finishes, such as polished, textured, and matte. i.materialise has a user-friendly website that makes it easy to upload your 3D design and choose your desired material and finish. They also offer a variety of tools and resources to help you optimize your design for 3D printing.
Sculpteo
Sculpteo is a 3D printing service that offers a wide range of materials and finishes, including metals, plastics, and ceramics. They also offer a variety of services, such as 3D design optimization and 3D scanning. Sculpteo has a user-friendly website where you can upload your 3D design and choose your desired material and finish. They also offer a variety of tools and resources to help you optimize your design for 3D printing.
Overall, there are plenty of online 3D printing services available that can help you bring your designs to life. When choosing a service, be sure to consider factors such as material options, finishes, and pricing. It’s also important to ensure that your design is optimized for 3D printing to ensure the best possible results.
Local 3D Printing Services
If you’re looking for a local 3D printing service, there are several options available to you. Libraries and makerspaces, the UPS Store, and local print shops are all great places to start.
Libraries and Makerspaces
Many libraries and makerspaces now offer 3D printing services to the public. These spaces often have multiple 3D printers available for use, and staff members who can help you with the printing process. Some libraries and makerspaces may charge a fee for 3D printing services, while others may offer it for free. If you’re interested in using a library or makerspace for 3D printing, check with your local library or search online for makerspaces in your area.
UPS Store
The UPS Store offers 3D printing services through their partnership with HoneyPoint3D. Customers can bring in their own 3D designs, or work with HoneyPoint3D to create a custom design. The UPS Store also offers 3D scanning services, which can be useful for creating a 3D model of an existing object. Prices for 3D printing services vary depending on the complexity of the design and the materials used.
Local Print Shops
Some local print shops now offer 3D printing services in addition to their traditional printing services. These shops may have a limited selection of 3D printers available, but they can still be a good option for smaller projects. Prices for 3D printing services at local print shops may vary depending on the size and complexity of the design, as well as the materials used.
Overall, there are many options available if you’re looking for a local 3D printing service. Libraries and makerspaces, the UPS Store, and local print shops are all great places to start. Be sure to do your research and compare prices and services before choosing a provider.
Personal 3D Printers
If you’re looking to do your own 3D printing at home, you’ll need a personal 3D printer. These printers come in a variety of types, sizes, and price points. In this section, we’ll cover the different types of 3D printers, the best 3D printers for beginners, and where to buy 3D printers.
Types of 3D Printers
There are three main types of 3D printers: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling), SLA (Stereolithography), and DLP (Digital Light Processing). FDM printers are the most common and affordable, using a heated nozzle to melt and extrude plastic filament. SLA and DLP printers use light to cure a liquid resin into solid form.
Best 3D Printers for Beginners
For beginners, we recommend starting with an FDM printer. They are more affordable and easier to use than SLA or DLP printers. Here are a few of the best 3D printers for beginners:
| 3D Printer | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Creality Ender 3 | $229 | Open source, large build volume |
| Monoprice Select Mini V2 | $220 | Compact, easy to use |
| Anycubic Photon | $259 | SLA printer, high resolution prints |
Where to Buy 3D Printers
There are several options for buying 3D printers. You can purchase them online from retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, or directly from the manufacturer’s website. Some electronics stores may also carry 3D printers in-store. It’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting a quality printer that meets your needs.
