Want to start a 3D printing business? You must be wondering where to start. Most importantly what you will need is a 3D printer. Using this device you will have the ability to print anything off a digital file. After that you can start learning how to print projects. There are several high profitable things to 3D print and sell. In order, to make money you can sell the projects online or you can start print-on-demand 3D printing services.

We at founderactivity will be covering what 3D printed items can you make and where can you sell them. This article also covers depicted projects for you have inspiration and a great start.

• What is a 3D Printer?

3D printing is a unique creative process of bringing any digital design to life. Or this can also be defined as 3D printing or additive manufacturing is the process of producing layer-by-layer to create a three dimensional solid object from a digital file on a computer.

This is an additive process where layers of material are laid down till a 3D object is created. Every layer can be seen as a thin sliced cross section of the object created.

Below is a video to help you further to understand what 3D printing is and how it is used.

• Best 3D Printed Things to Sell

If you can print it, you can most definitely sell it. Finding things to 3D print and sell is easy but choosing the right project is hard. When choosing which items to sell, it always comes down your design specialty, preferences and what the hardware you use is capable of.

Below are over 40 ideas that will make you capable of earning money by 3D printing projects for sale.

1. Prototype Models

Prototype Model Things to 3D Print and Sell

Since 3D printers have the ability to create any digital design with lowest manufacturing cost. Most companies use 3D prototype models to come to a final decision regarding a final design.

2. Personalized Soap Dish

Personalized Soap Dishes Things to 3D Print and Sell

There is a growing market of people who loved soap dishes. Even more it is customized with a name or phrase on it. Personalized soap dishes have the ability to give people’s bathrooms a unique look that visitors will like.

3. Miniatures

Miniatures Things to 3D Print and Sell

Miniature figurines are small and detailed hence the name miniature. There is nothing like decorating your home with mini representations of your favorite characters from the big screens. Buying these from stores can be ridiculously expensive and much cheaper to 3D print for sale.

Your figurines do not have limit to characters. It can be broadened to animals or anything that can be miniatured printed. Such as celebrities, animals or mystical creatures.

4. 3D Printed Cities

3D printed cities Things to 3D Print and Sell

3D printing and selling of printed cities is a very unique niche segment that people are raising their interests in. It is surprising to know how much people enjoy having a miniature city modeled in their home in 3D. They are able to enjoy the mini details, landmarks and buildings in miniature form.

5. Cosplay items

cosplay items Things to 3D Print and Sell

Cosplay items are known to be expensive products. They are the most labor intensive product on this list. It could take from hours or days from the beginning to end to complete the product. You can use this to your advantage by charging the right amount of cost for the great deal of time and effort taken to produce it. Also, since customers are willing to pay well for these kinds of products, your product should be able maintain premium quality.

6. Personalized Keyrings

personalized keyrings Things to 3D Print and Sell

Another unique item you can create and print for sale is personalized keyrings. In current day, people are no longer attracted to generic or regular accessories. They prefer personalized items. This is where your 3D printing business is valued. You can make personalized keyrings according to customer preferences. Keyrings are also an accessory that help people stay organized and keep track of their belongings.

7. Jewelry

jewelry Things to 3D Print and Sell

With growing demand for unique jewelry, people are willing to pay premium prices for one of a kind accessories. Using a 3D printer, you can print a variety of different designs like pendants, earrings or even bracelets.

8. Toys

toys Things to 3D Print and Sell

Finding new and unique toys can be quite tough. People find it difficult to find them. There is a growing demand for toys that are one of a kind. Therefore, you can 3D print different designs on toys, animals, cars or dolls. Or further, customize it to their preferences.

9. Fidget Toys

fidget toys Things to 3D Print and Sell

Another multipurpose item you can make with a 3D printer is fidget toys. It can serve as a desk toy or stress reliever. They can bring in great sales if attract your customers with creative designs.

10. Nerf gun accessories

nerf gun accessories Things to 3D Print and Sell

Nerf gun accessories and gun bodies are trending in the 3D printing community. Customized accessories have a demanding market. Items like dart holders or larger magazines are a popular nerf related 3D prints. It is easy to create these accessories for nerf guns.

11. Flower Pots/Planters

flower pots/ planters Things to 3D Print and Sell

Flower pots or planters are known for being fragile. Hence, printing with a 3D printer both of these issues can be avoided. Plant pots can be 3D printed with your unique designs or what the customer requests and sold. You are able to find a wide market of people who seek one of a kind décor. On the plus side, unlike a regular flower pots, 3D printed pots do not break easily and they are also easy to move around.

12. Vases

vases Things to 3D Print and Sell

Just like 3D printed flower pots, 3D printed vases are another type of decor that is capable of bringing large number of sales. The unique designs that can created on the 3D printer are modern and elegant compared to vases that are available in stores. People tend to attract to this item not because of the fact that it is 3D printed but the fact it is high end and luxurious. Unique vases can be a trend setter.

13. Architecture models

architecture models Things to 3D Print and Sell

3D printing has made a significant change in the lives of architects. Making their jobs easier, with this new technology architects have been able to improve their efficiency in the workflow. Previously, all 3D architectural models were made by hand using cardboard, wood and foam. Durability of these models were also an issue. It was a very long and difficult process. With growing use of 3D printing, architects are able to get perfect models of their projects since they are more precise.

14. 3D Printed Stands

3D printed stands Things to 3D Print and Sell

Your table desk can only have so much space for your electronics. There is a growing demand for stands that can hold your laptops and phones. But most people also look for new and unique holders. This is where your 3D printing business comes into its expertise. You have the ability to print a variety of different designs for laptop stand and phone stands.

15. Statues

statues Things to 3D Print and Sell

Statues are 3D printed products that sell exceptionally well. Most of these are statues of gods related to different religions or ancient myths. Such as statues of The Buddha, Jesus Christ, The Laughing Buddha also known as Budai in Chinese and many more. These type of statues require an advanced level of skill for 3D printing and sculpting. You will already have plenty of options of ready made models but most people prefer customized items.

16. Phone cases

phone cases Things to 3D Print and Sell

Customized phone cases are a huge market with equal demand. 3D printed designs are also no exception. You have countless possibilities to print and sell phone cases with your 3D printer. Basic cases are inexpensive and are readily available to customers in many stores and online retailers. But there will always also be a market for customized phones cases.

The only downside you will face by starting to 4D print phone cases is that there is large number of phone models. Being able to cater to them all will be difficult. Therefore, the best solution would be to take orders or print on demand. From that point, you can decide whether to upscale your 3D printing business.

17. Eyeglasses frames

eyeglass frames Things to 3D Print and Sell

Eyeglass frames have been growing in popularity over the years. Customers have been flocking towards smaller businesses that design custom pair of frames. Some may want new frames that is comfortable and suits their face or some may want new frames to replace the one that is damaged. Another option would be to switch to a new pair of 3D printed frames for aesthetic reasons.

Beware of the filaments you use for this product. If your customer spends time outside on a hot day, frames have the ability to soften and warp from heat. ABS and Nylon are known to be safer filament choices for a product like this. They consist of a high glass transition temperature.

18.Wall Decoration

wall decoration Things to 3D Print and Sell

A cool item to print and sell by designing it aesthetically to customers. This is a market that is potentially known to grow with the appreciation of 3D printing. Homeowners are keen on looking for amazing wall art that will bring sophistication to their homes. The further your imagination and your customers requirements grow, you can create and 3D print any form of wall décor.

19. Drink coasters

drink coasters Things to 3D Print and Sell

You can easily get tired of seeing and cleaning the endless humidity rings on your countertop. The solution to this was using a drink coaster. But you will see so many regular drink coasters in stores that do not match the ambiance to suit your home. Here you can spice this up by 3D printing and selling drink coasters. Your product should standout that would make you attract customers. To make things even better you can print and sell custom drink coasters since they typically only take a minutes to print.

20. Candle Holder

candle holders Things to 3D Print and Sell

Are you someone who adores candles with lit flames? But you want to clever and interesting ways to display your flames. There are only so many available types of candle holders. You have the ability to 3D print and sell unique candle holders that would attract the interest of your customers. You can also customize candle holders to your customers requirements.

21. Toilet Paper Holders

toilet paper holders Things to 3D Print and Sell

Bored of the same old toilet paper holder? You can now customize and 3D print the type of toilet paper holder you wish. You can grow a business by catering different varieties of toilet paper holders. A design that can be mounted on the wall of your restroom or using double-sided adhesives. Or you can also drill a few holes onto the wall to hold it in place more permanently.

22. Bathroom Phone Holder

bathroom phone holder Things to 3D Print and Sell

Present day, almost no one uses the washroom without their phone in hand. Most likely to avoid getting stuck reading the label of a disinfectant bottle. But the recurring problem is that there is almost no place to keep your phone away when needed. The simple solution to this would be 3D printing an incredibly simple phone holder above your toilet paper holder. Basically a built in platform for your phone that would keep it securely.

23. Lamps

lamp Things to 3D Print and Sell

Possibilities of printing different types of lamps on a 3D printer is endless. There are popular choices and also customized ones. Since home décor is a growing and thriving market. You are able to print and sell something unique for their home space.

24. Personalized Lithophane

personalized lithophane Things to 3D Print and Sell

Most people are not aware of lithophanes. How they work and look is very impressive. They are thin 3D printed tablets that creates an image from the outside of the model when it lights up from the inside. You can use any picture or any picture that customer requests. They will be able use it on their bedside table or gift it for any occasion. Like birthdays, marriages or even anniversaries.

25. Knife Holder

knife holder Things to 3D Print and Sell

Regular knife holders can be seen in every retail store. The unique mind will always look for interesting pieces for their home. Even if it is a knife holder, so be it! A unique piece to do the function that regular knife holder would be great.

26. Art

art Things to 3D Print and Sell

The potential 3D printing has on art is revolutionary. Different and various types of furnishing products can be produced with ease by this additive manufacturing technique. You are able to sell your design your products on the internet that will allow your customers to customize for orders.

27. Customized Shoes

customized shoes Things to 3D Print and Sell

The footwear world, 3D printing is rapidly becoming a popular choice for people if you are looking to start a business. Famously, Adidas is a brand that already has entered this niche market and offers their customers customized shoes that are comfortable and durable.

28. Ornaments

ornaments Things to 3D Print and Sell

Ornaments are one of those universal likes. Where almost everyone owns at least a unique piece or two. Many people who own ornaments in their homes, are most likely to have one of a kind pieces that are custom made for them.

29. Movie-grade Props

movie grade props Things to 3D Print and Sell

Extremely realistic props are mostly demanded by hard core fans. They are also willing to pay any amount for these products. Before you start printing with the big buck on mind, be sure to check the legalities. Selling items like these depend on what game or movie you are basing them on.

30. Secret shelf

secret shelf Things to 3D Print and Sell

Just like any wall mounted shelf, this secret shelf has the ability to look the same. However, by pulling out its outer sleeve, shows a small pocket for storage in it base. This happens to be the perfect hiding place for stashing valuable items like money or your keys. It is a simple design to be printed by 3D printer and a durable products to hold something as a mounted shelf to sell easily.

31. Wall outlet shelf

wall outlet shelf Things to 3D Print and Sell

You can make a variety of different types of lamps on a 3D printer. They are popular choices when it comes to making and selling 3D printed items. Home décor is a thriving market. When you can offer something unique for their living space, design-minded consumers take notice.

32. Headset Holder

headset holder Things to 3D Print and Sell

People are always distracted on where they can keep their headphones. You can save them the hassle by 3D printing headphone stands and selling them. This is a great product if taken as an example as a product that solves and issue you did not even know you had. While most store sells regular headset holders, you have the ability to print and sell unique types of holders. Customized headset holders are also a growing market.

33. Earbud Holder

earbuds holder Things to 3D Print and Sell

This is a situation that most of us face. You take out your earbuds, listen to some music and then put it away. Now with declining use of earphone users with wires, this model of earbud holders are growing in popularity. Using a 3D printer to print will only take a few minutes and also can be sold.

34. Light Casing

light casing Things to 3D Print and Sell

Light casing business can be seen everywhere. But light casing business that cater to the crowd of people who seek unique items is really low. There is a growing market for custom light casing of either their homes or businesses. With the help of a 3D printer, you are able to cater to this market. While staying faithful to your customers requests, you can grow a profitable business with high earning potential.

35. Toothbrush Holder

toothbrush holders Things to 3D Print and Sell

A fun project to start with 3D printing ca be producing toothbrush holders. Most bathrooms do not have a great or sanitary place to place your toothbrush. This is why it would be a great idea to print and sell great storage spaces to store your toothbrush. You can also customize them as per your customer request.

36. Custom Bowls

custom bowls Things to 3D Print and Sell

Custom bowls are exciting to look at. Unfortunately, not a lot of store offer unique sets of custom bowls. A 3D printing business that prints and sells custom bowls would be highly profitable. Customizing to suit your customers preferences or selling custom sets that is relevant to different seasons of the year.

37. Custom Mugs

custom mugs Things to 3D Print and Sell

Custom mugs are always the perfect gift for any occasion. It can be customized in many more ways too. Such as for personal use, convenience and seasonal occasions. This can be done with a 3D printer and can be sold to your customers. You can use some hilarious artwork to grow and attract customers towards your business.

38. 3D Printed Clocks

3D printed clocks Things to 3D Print and Sell

Printed clocks are becoming increasing popular. Customized one even so more. Printing 3D clocks in a variety with logos, patterns and texts or even customizing clocks can be profitable.

39. Key Holder

key holder Things to 3D Print and Sell

Key holders are increasing in popularities in homes and are the hot item these days. You are also able to personalize your key holder to suit the ambiance of your home. Such as you are looking for something funny, quirky, elegant or simple. Printing them using a 3D printer and selling them can turn out to be a very profitable business.

40. 3D Egg Tray and Egg Holder

egg tray and egg holder Things to 3D Print and Sell

Finding a fun and quirky egg holder can be quite difficult with so many standard egg holders that are available in stores. Some people actually prefer to have creative storage items in their homes. But there is no availability. Hence, using a 3D printer, you can create unique egg trays and egg holders with designs or colors of your choice or the choice of your customer and sell them.

41. Tea infuser

tea infuser Things to 3D Print and Sell

While most stores sell the same basic and regular tea infuser, if you own a 3D printer, you can cater to the market that prefers unique products. They are durable and take only a few minutes to print. Selling them online or in a store is a great option to attract customers. This will help you grow a product that has high profitable 3D print and sell potential.

• Where to sell your 3D printed things?

Lastly, after you have put everything together and you are ready to make profits with your 3D printer, you have to know what platforms you can use to build your business. Attract customers will be difficult if you do not have a way of advertising yourself and your business. Platforms like Facebook or Instagram can be used by showcasing your products with pictures and prices in the market place. Online platforms like Etsy, Amazon and eBay can also be used to bring in sales. Online sales are easy and quicker. Your digital files of your models that you advertise also can be sold on these platforms.

What is a robot’s favorite snack? Computer chips.

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