3D Printing Business Models
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Basics
- This page aims to show various Business Models to aid Microfactories and Print Farms in breaking even, or earning a small profit, to prevent the typical issue of good causes becoming Money Pits
- #3 business models - subcontracting, reverse engineering, product design
Models
Art
- Not for everyone, but 3D Printing can be a GREAT art medium
- Lattice Cubes, Lampshades, Lithophanes, Sculptures, and kinetic art can all be made easily (assuming you have someone to make the desings...)
- Market may be the issue, but either online Etsy , Flea Markets, or local craft fairs are all options
Cosplay/Props Service/Store
- Between Haloween, local theatres/indie film studios, and the emerging prevalence of cosplay there is a large market for 3D Printed Parts, or Molds etc in costumes or props
- Many can't afford 3D Printers, but a 3D Printed Helmet, Sword, Mask, etc is often doable
- Can also be combined with metal casting (even simple aluminum from Lost PLA Casting , Greensand Casting (using 3d Printed forms), Lost Wax Casting ), Silicone Molds (3D Printed), CNC Foam Cutting and more for little additional cost of equipment (toolheads, or propane etc, and a crucible + some cans)
Desing/Model Service
- Make architechtual models
- Make models for various academic uses (heart cutaways, skeletons, cell cutaways, etc) (something as simple as a local elementary school would work as a user base)
- Make models for presentations
Educational
- Work hand in hand with local schools
- Mainly middle and high schools would be the targets (perhaps vocational schools (models of engines?) ? )
- Work with engineering classes, physics classes, art classes, and anyone who would want the service
- Print designs made by students, print models, or even do 3D Printer builds long term