Getting started with 3D printing is easy, and it has never been cheaper to buy a 3D printer than it is now. You can get a basic 3D printer online for around €600 and there are plenty of cheap materials that you can use to make your own creations.
In addition, you can now get modular printers in the market at an affordable price. An example is Snapmaker 2.0.
That said, here are the 5 most compelling reasons you should buy a 3D printer to use at home:
1. Empower Your Creativity
Aside from being able to make things, 3D printing is also about learning and exploring new ideas. This is very different from what you might expect when it comes to technology. With a 3D printer, you can create almost any item that you can imagine. It’s like owning a real-life gadget that you can use in Sci-Fi.
The best part about 3D printing is that it’s not hard to learn the basics. With high-quality guides that are available online, you can easily learn how to use computer-aided design software. There are also countless tutorials on the web that will help you set up your printer.
In addition to being able to make various useful accessories such as credit card holders, cellphone cases, and hinges, 3D printing can also be used to create amazing artwork. People have used the technology to create life-sized models of the heart and brain, as well as detailed maps of Tokyo.
It can also help you lower your stress levels and improve your mood. According to studies, people who engage in creative hobbies can lower their anxiety and depression.
2. Develop New Skills
Being able to create something using 3D printing can help you develop new ideas and improve your creativity. It can also help you expand your scope of knowledge. Although it’s a fun and marketable skill, it’s still not enough to just learn how to use it. You need to consider the technology’s future advancements and be prepared for them by gaining the right skills.
Another important factor that you should consider when it comes to learning how to 3D print is being familiar with the equipment. Having a good understanding of it will allow you to be more capable of even printing more complex products.
Despite the various global health concerns like Covid-19 that have affected the 3D printing industry, the demand for the technology is still expected to continue growing. By getting familiar with the latest technology, you can be a step ahead.
3. It's a Lot of Fun
If you're an avid gamer or enthusiast of 3D printing, then you'll be thrilled by the various activities that you can do with it. Some of these include creating action figures, chess boards, and mini-machines of war such as crossbows and catapults. You can also make fully functional models of cars, airplanes, and trains.
For some people, the process of learning how to use 3D printing can be very exciting. They'll be able to test out the various features of the printing machines and their software. It can also help them develop new ideas and improve their creativity. Learning new things can stimulate the parts of their brain that are responsible for releasing endorphins.
One of the best ways to get involved in the hobby is by letting your friends and family join in on the fun. Having them help you create a design can be a great way of having constructive fun.
If you're not motivated by the practical aspects of 3D printing, then consider other interests or hobbies that can provide you with inspiration. For instance, if you're a huge video game fan, then creating a customized object inspired by your favorite characters can be a great way to start.
4. Educate Your Children
According to studies, children are more likely to retain information if they're able to perform tasks and put their hands on objects instead of just reading alone. 3D printing can help in this regard. This is because they'll be able to learn by actually carrying out the tasks involved in 3D printing. Aside from the technical aspects of the technology, it's also beneficial for children's creativity.
Children can develop their problem-solving skills and knowledge of complex concepts with the help of 3D-printed models. Creating a model using the technology can also help them grasp abstract concepts.
Due to the increasing number of universities investing in 3D printing facilities, students are now able to work directly with the technology. Therefore, having your kids learn how to use a 3D printer and operate popular software programs can help them get ahead in their studies.
5. Make Money
On top of being fun and educational 3D printing can be a source of steady income. Therefore you can consider establishing a side hustle to make money from 3D printing.
Being able to create a customized object that fits a buyer's specifications is a valuable skill. Many people who have started 3D printing also sell various products, such as children's toys and statues of popular characters from video games and pop culture.
Aside from being able to create and sell products, you can also teach others how to use the technology. With many people embracing and seeing the potential of 3D printing there will always be a need for quality information on the subject. You can position yourself as an authority in the field by providing quality information on 3D printing through a Youtube channel, Instagram, or on Twitter.
With a high-quality printer, you can expand your scope of activities and provide better services to customers. Doing so can eliminate the guilt of spending a lot of money and time on a hobby that has no monetary benefits.
One great 3D printing machine you can consider if you want to make money through 3D printing is Snapmaker 2.0. This is a 3-in-1 3D printer that does 3D printing, laser engraving and CNC carving.