As I worked at my desk, fine-tuning my 3D printer, I felt a mix of wonder and excitement. This machine, now my creative partner, could do so much more than just make small items and prototypes. With smart planning, it could open the door to a side hustle that turns my 3D printing hobby into a steady income.
In this guide, we’ll look at 16 ways to use your 3D printing skills to make money. Whether you want to cover your printer costs or start a full business, the 3D printing industry is full of chances.
Key Takeaways
- The 3D printing industry offers various lucrative opportunities for turning your hobby into a source of income.
- Online platforms like Cults3D, CGtrader, and TurboSquid allow designers to earn royalties of up to 92% on 3D printer design sales.
- Around a million households own a 3D printer, indicating a growing market for 3D-printed products and services.
- Renting out 3D printers can generate additional income, with rates ranging from $25 to $40 per day on platforms like FatLlama.
- Successful 3D printing content creators on YouTube can achieve a six-figure income, showcasing the scalability of this side hustle.
Sell 3D Printer Designs
One easy way to make money with your 3D printer is by selling design files online. The demand for unique and innovative designs is growing. Hobbyists and businesses want them for custom products.
Popular Design Categories
Some top categories for 3D printer designs are:
- Miniatures and models
- Game pieces
- Cosplay items
- Tools and spare parts
- Jewelry
Upload your designs to sites like Cults3D, CGTrader, Pinshape, MyMiniFactory, and Turbosquid. You’ll earn royalties each time someone downloads and prints your design.
Marketplaces for Selling 3D Designs
Choosing the right marketplaces is key when selling 3D printer designs. Here are some top choices:
| Marketplace | Royalty Rates |
|---|---|
| Cults3D | 80% of sales |
| CGTrader | 70-80% royalties |
| Pinshape | 30% markup on your desired price |
| MyMiniFactory | 92% of sales (monthly fee) |
| Turbosquid | 40-60% royalties |
Choose a platform and follow all copyright and licensing rules. This way, you can protect your 3D designs and 3D models. And, you’ll keep earning royalties on 3D designs and selling 3D models online.
Sell 3D-Printed Models
If you don’t have a 3D printer, buying 3D-printed models is a great choice. Offering a variety of 3D-printed products lets you meet this growing demand. You can make a good income from your 3D printing side job. Dollhouse miniatures, collectibles, and custom items are top sellers.
Prices for these models range from $8 to $40. Customers often buy more than one item at a time. This means you can make more money, especially if you can’t afford a 3D printer.
| Popular 3D Printed Product Ideas | Average Selling Price |
|---|---|
| Flexi Octopus | $15-$25 |
| Personalized Soap Dishes | $12-$20 |
| Fidget Toys | $8-$15 |
| Flower Pots or Planters | $18-$30 |
| Personalized Keyrings | $10-$18 |
To sell 3D-printed models well, offer unique and personalized designs. Know what your customers want and use popular sites like Etsy. This way, you can make your 3D printing hobby profitable.
Create Product Prototypes
3D printing is now key for inventors and product creators to make their ideas real. By offering 3D printing and design services, you can help them make real prototypes. Scott Tarcy, a member of the Side Hustle Nation, charges $50 an hour for his CAD design and 3D printing skills. This is great for early businesses and people who can’t make prototypes on their own.
3D Printing and Design Services
3D printing has made it easy to turn hobbies into money-making side hustles. 3D printing services help people and businesses make prototypes, custom parts, or products. You can design and make things like custom keychains and wine bottle stoppers with 3D printing. Jewelry designers can also make unique and detailed jewelry pieces.
| Service | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| CAD Design and 3D Printing | $50 per hour |
| 3D Printed Prototypes | Varies based on complexity and materials |
| Custom 3D Printed Products | Depends on materials, production costs, and profit margins |
“3D printing enables the creation of detailed and eye-catching artistic sculptures for sale or display.”
If you’re into product design, jewelry making, or architectural modeling, 3D printing can help you earn more. By offering 3D printing design services and creating product prototypes, you can meet the growing demand. This way, you can make extra money to add to your main income.
Provide 3D Printing Services
The 3D printing market is growing fast, increasing by 25% each year for the last five years. This growth offers a great chance for entrepreneurs to start 3D printing services for businesses. Companies and product developers often need quick models for meetings or to check a part’s size. By offering 3D printing as a service, you can meet this need.
Having a strong online presence is crucial to draw in clients. Start by making a Google Business Profile that shows your 3D printing for local businesses skills. Then, build a simple, informative website that lists your services, prices, and any good reviews or stories from customers. Even big names like UPS Stores are now offering 3D printing services, showing how much demand there is.
To start your 3D printing service, think about the type of 3D printer, materials, utilities, rent, and marketing costs. Starting costs can be from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on what you need. Also, keep up with the latest in 3D printing, like plastics, filaments, and resins, to offer top-notch service to your clients.
| Service | Description | Potential Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Prototyping and Model Printing | Offer 3D printing services for businesses to create prototypes and models for their products. | $50 – $500 per project, depending on complexity and materials used. |
| 3D Printing for Hobbyists and Collectors | Cater to the demand for 3D-printed toys, figurines, and collectibles from hobbyists and enthusiasts. | $20 – $200 per item, based on size and complexity. |
| Industrial 3D Printing | Provide advanced 3D printing services for industrial applications, such as manufacturing custom parts or tools. | $500 – $5,000 per project, depending on the scale and complexity. |
By offering 3D printing services for businesses, you can enter a growing market and start a profitable side hustle. With the right plan and focus, you can become the go-to 3D printing service for local companies and product developers needing quick prints.
Resell Used or Refurbished 3D Printers
The 3D printing industry is growing fast, making reselling used or refurbished 3D printers a great side hustle. Not many homes have a 3D printer yet, offering a big chance for people to make money from this new tech.
Reselling used 3D printers can save you a lot of money. For instance, Solidoodle’s refurbished models are cheaper by up to $400 than new ones. You can get the Solidoodle 2nd Generation Pro for $299, which is $400 less than buying new. The Solidoodle 3rd Generation is also cheaper, at $399, saving $400 from the new price.
Looking for good deals on used 3D printers is key when buying and selling them. Hobby items like 3D printers often get sold or returned, making them great to “flip.” By buying these at a discount, you can sell them online for a profit on eBay or Facebook Marketplace.
Buying a used 3D printer has its downsides, like hidden damage or tricky setup. But, the savings can be worth it for those who know their way around 3D printing. To avoid problems, buy from trusted sellers, check the printer well, and test it before you buy.
Reselling used or refurbished 3D printers is a smart move for those wanting to make money from their hobby. With the growing demand and cost savings, it’s a chance for entrepreneurs to succeed in 3D printer flipping.
“Reusing or repurposing used 3D printers supports environmental sustainability by reducing electronic waste.”
Rent Out Your 3D Printer
Want to make extra money with your 3D printer? Consider renting it out when you’re not using it. Sites like FatLlama and HireStuff connect you with people who want to pay for your printer. You can earn between $25 to $40 a day, making it a great way to earn extra.
Peer-to-Peer 3D Printer Rentals
Peer-to-peer rental sites let you list your 3D printer for rent. They handle payments, insurance, and support, making it easy for you. You can rent out your printer when you’re not using it. This way, customers get to use 3D printing services without buying a machine.
To start, just make a listing on a rental site. Share details about your 3D printer and set your price. After someone books your printer, the site takes care of everything, and you get paid.
| Platform | Rental Rates | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| FatLlama | $25 – $40 per day | Extensive insurance coverage, secure payments, and customer support |
| HireStuff | $30 – $50 per day | Flexible rental durations, wide selection of 3D printers, and easy listing process |
Renting your 3D printer turns your hobby into a side hustle. You can earn money when your printer sits idle. Check out peer-to-peer rental sites and start making money today!
Become a 3D Printer Content Creator
If you love 3D printing and making content that teaches or informs, you can make money as a content creator. By making tutorials, reviews, and other videos or blog posts about 3D printing, you can earn from ads, affiliate marketing, and sponsorships. Uncle Jessy, a popular 3D printing YouTuber, has over 500,000 subscribers and makes a lot of money from his videos. To succeed, focus on two main places like a website and a social media platform. Keep making great content for your fans.
To make money from your 3D printing skills, try these methods:
- Start a YouTube channel for 3D printing tutorials, reviews, and news. You can earn from ads, Super Chat, and memberships.
- Make a blog or website about 3D printing. Use it to make money with ads like Google Adsense, Mediavine, or Monumetric, and affiliate marketing.
- Teach online courses and workshops on sites like Teachable, Udemy, or Skillshare. Share your 3D printing skills, design tips, and more.
- Publish a book on Amazon or other sites. Share your 3D printing knowledge in a detailed guide or reference for fans.
Being a successful 3D printer content creator means always making great content that your audience loves. Use different ways to make money and build a strong following. This way, you can turn your 3D printing passion into a profitable side job or even a full-time business.
“Many have turned their passion for 3D printing into a profitable side hustle or full-time business.”
3d printing side hustle
For 3D printing fans, making money from your hobby can be thrilling. With smart strategies, you can turn your 3D printing hobby into a side income. You can sell custom designs or offer prototyping services. There are many ways to make money with 3D printers, 3d printing side business ideas, monetizing 3d printing hobby, and making money with 3d printers.
One way is to sell 3D-printed models and designs. Personalized earrings are a hit on Etsy, making them a profitable niche. You can also print and sell many other products like customized phone stands, planters, board game pieces, and pet items.
Another option is to offer 3D printing services. This is for people or businesses without their own 3D printers. You can help with rapid prototyping or making custom products. This meets the growing need for quick 3D printing solutions.
If you’re good on camera, consider starting a YouTube channel about 3D printing. Share tutorials, reviews, and insights. You can earn money through ads and sponsorships.
You can also earn passively by renting out 3D printers or selling digital designs. Sites like Thingiverse, Shapeways, and Cults3D let creators sell their designs. You can also rent out your 3D printing gear to others.
If you’re handy with repairs, offer 3D printer repair services. As more people own these machines, they’ll need skilled technicians. This could be a profitable side hustle.
To succeed in a 3D printing side hustle, find opportunities that match your skills and interests. Use your 3D printing knowledge to make money. You could earn thousands from your hobby.
“With the right strategies, individuals can potentially make thousands of dollars from their 3D printing ventures.”
Sell Custom 3D-Printed Jewelry
The jewelry industry is booming in the 3D printing world. Entrepreneurs are making the most of this trend by offering unique, custom 3D-printed jewelry. Etsy has become a key place for these makers to share their unique pieces with people all over the world.
3D-printed jewelry is all about customization. You can add logos, initials, or special touches to make each piece unique. This meets the modern buyer’s need for personal style. Plus, 3D printing lets you make complex jewelry that’s hard or impossible to make the old way.
Etsy Sellers and Custom Designs
Many Etsy sellers have made a name for themselves with custom 3D-printed jewelry. They stand out from common jewelry by offering one-of-a-kind pieces. This approach draws in customers who want something special and unique.
For those looking to get into 3D-printed jewelry, getting a top-notch 3D printer is key. A Mass Portal 3D printer, for example, lets you make intricate, high-quality jewelry. It takes skill and creativity, but the payoff can be big if you build a strong brand and loyal customers.
The 3D printing market is growing fast, expected to hit over $37 billion by 2026. This means big opportunities for those in the 3D-printed jewelry business. By focusing on customization and using 3D printing’s versatility, new jewelry entrepreneurs can find a profitable spot in this expanding field.
Write a 3D Printing Book
Writing a 3D printing book can be a great way to make money on the side. You can use platforms like Amazon to publish your book without a traditional publisher. Even small royalties each month can add up over time.
Or, you could make a logbook for 3D printer owners. They can track their projects, print times, and results. This book is easier to make but can still bring in passive income.
First, pick a topic in 3D printing you know a lot about. It could be a guide for beginners, a technical guide, or a book of project ideas. Focusing on a specific audience helps you make content they’ll love.
After choosing your topic, look at what’s already out there. Find areas where you can offer something new and useful. Adding pictures, like diagrams or step-by-step photos, can make your book more helpful.
By self-publishing a 3D printing book, you share your knowledge and passion. You could also earn passive income from 3D printing. If you’re into 3D printing and want a side job, this could be a good choice.
Teach a 3D Printing Course or Workshop
If you love 3D printing, you can make money by teaching online courses or local workshops. You can focus on a certain software, design tool, or project type. Sites like Skillshare and Udemy help you reach many students. If you have a big online following, you can sell courses on your own site, like Nikko Mendoza does with his “3D Printed Profits” course.
Online Course Platforms
You can also host workshops in person at places like your city’s organization, library, or community college. You’ll charge a fee for these workshops. This is a great way to make money from teaching 3d printing courses and 3d printing workshops, as well as earning money from 3d printing education.
- Over 7,300 3D printer enthusiasts have signed up for the Friday Factory weekly newsletter.
- Ed Tyson has been in the 3D printing space since 2014 and claims to have grown ecommerce businesses to 6 and 7 figures.
- Clients working with Ed Tyson reportedly make significantly more money with their 3D printing businesses after interacting with him.
- The Institute of 3D Printing client mentioned purchasing other training courses costing thousands in comparison to what Ed Tyson offers.
Subjects for teaching 3D printing courses or workshops include Physical Science and Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Arts and Humanities. The most common languages used are English, Spanish, and French, with English leading the pack.
There are many types of learning products available, like Guided Projects, Courses, Specializations, Professional Certificates, and University Certificates. They cater to all skill levels, from Beginner to Advanced. Course lengths vary, with most lasting 1-4 weeks or 1-3 months.
3D Printing Consulting
The world of 3D printing is growing fast, and there’s a big need for skilled 3D printing consultants. If you know a lot about 3D printing and have developed your skills, you can make money by offering 3D printing consulting services. This can be a great way to turn your hobby into a side income.
You can make money by answering questions on sites like Clarity.fm or JustAnswer. Here, you can get paid for helping other people who are into 3D printing. You can charge between $60 to $200 per hour, depending on how much you know and the questions you answer.
You can also share your 3D printing knowledge in Facebook groups or online forums. This way, you can show people you’re an expert and might find clients who want to pay for your advice.
When setting your prices for 3D printing consulting, think about the project’s size, your skills, and how much value you add to your clients. Many consultants charge a percentage of the project’s total value. This way, you get paid based on the help you give.
To be a good 3D printing consultant, always keep up with new 3D printing tech, materials, and trends. By learning and getting better, you can be seen as a true 3D printing expert. This means you can give your clients great advice and solutions.
3D printing consulting can be a great way to make extra money if you love the tech and are good at solving problems. By using your skills and offering top-notch services, you can make your 3D printing hobby into a successful consulting business.
3D Printer Repair and Maintenance Service
3D printing is getting more popular, so the need for repair and maintenance services is growing. You can make good money by offering these services. Plus, you can earn more by filming how you fix 3D printers, just like Matt Bochnak did with motorcycle repair videos on YouTube.
Filming Repairs and Building an Audience
Sharing repair videos can bring in money from both the services and the videos themselves. By gaining followers, you become a go-to expert in 3D printer repair. This lets you make money through ads, sponsorships, or product deals.
Industry stats show you can earn thousands from 3D printing, including repair services. The 3D printer repair market is especially profitable because these machines are complex and need ongoing support.
| Service Offerings | Key Features |
|---|---|
| 3D Printer Repair |
|
| 3D Printer Maintenance |
|
Using your 3D printing skills to offer top-notch repair and maintenance services can pay off. You’ll not only make money from your skills but also gain loyal customers. Plus, you’ll have steady income from sharing your knowledge through videos.
Selling 3D-Printed Products
3D printing is getting more popular, making it a great side hustle to sell your own products. You can make everything from art for your home to useful items for daily life. Finding the right niche is key to success.
First, do some market research to find what people want. Look at what others are selling and see where you can do better. You might offer unique designs, better quality, or lower prices. Some top niches include art, toys, cosplay items, phone cases, office gadgets, replacement parts, and jewelry.
After picking your product focus, choose where to sell it. Shopify, Etsy, Amazon, and eBay are good places to start. Make sure your listings look great with clear photos and detailed descriptions. This will show off what makes your 3D-printed items special.
To really stand out, think about having your own online store. This gives you full control over how you sell and brand your products. Also, use social media to connect with customers and boost sales.
By tapping into the growing demand for 3D-printed items and using the right sales channels, you can make your hobby profitable. With good market research, creative designs, and smart marketing, you can find success in the 3D printing world.
“The future of 3D printing is limitless, and the possibilities for monetizing your skills are truly exciting.”
Providing On-Demand 3D Printing Solutions
Unleash the power of on-demand 3D printing services. Turn your 3D printing hobby into a side hustle. Offer custom 3D-printed products to clients, from individuals to businesses. This way, you can make more money and grow your business.
To stand out, find a niche that matches your skills and interests. This could be prototyping for startups, making architectural models, or creating custom gifts. Focusing on a specific area will make your services unique and help you gain loyal customers.
To attract clients, set fair prices and offer discounts and free consultations. Also, have a strong online presence with a website and good marketing. Use social media, email newsletters, and targeted ads to show off what you can do and reach more people.
| Key Considerations | Strategies for Success |
|---|---|
|
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By using on-demand 3D printing services, you can turn your 3D printing hobby into a side hustle. You’ll offer a variety of products to different clients, making a steady income.
“The future of 3D printing lies in on-demand services, where businesses and individuals can access customized solutions to meet their unique needs.”
Conclusion
3D printing opens up many ways to make money from your hobby. You can sell custom designs, 3D-printed models, or offer on-demand printing services. Teaching workshops is another way to use your skills to earn extra cash.
Identify what you’re good at and what you enjoy to find your niche. This way, you can make the most of your 3D printing skills. You can earn money through passive income or by offering services directly.
Starting a 3D printing side hustle requires a strategic and entrepreneurial mindset. With affordable 3D printers and cheap materials, now is a great time to get into it. This makes it easier for you to start making money from your hobby.
Using 3D printing can help you earn more and support this exciting technology. It’s used for quick prototyping, eco-friendly production, and even saving lives. Joining this field lets you make money and make a positive difference in the world.