How to start a 3D printing business?

To start a 3D printing business, you must research and choose a market, purchase a printer, research filaments, and decide on a platform. The 3D printing market value has increased by an average of 25% each year for the past five years, so it is a growing market to which you can add value, should you choose to.

1. Research and choose a market. There are many different markets in 3D printing, from working with professionals or with parents looking for a new toy. Knowing how your specific market performs is a great way to understand how best you can fit into it.

2. Purchase a printer. You should research and purchase a printer that works best for what you plan to print. You may print toys and games for kids or prototypes and models for professionals. Different printers have different strengths for these different markets.

3. Research filaments. Filaments are the different materials used in 3D printing. Knowing and choosing the correct filaments for your products is important so you don't have mishaps like warping.

4. Decide on a platform. Deciding how you want to market and sell your item is important. If you want a physical storefront, this would be an additional expense but beneficial if your local market is strong.

   Opening a shop on Etsy or a similar site is a lower-priced option and allows for greater visibility of your products, but there is more direct competition.