Why You Need a 3D Printer for Your Home

By Katy S

July 25, 2016

In January 2009, the BfB RapMan 3D printer became the first commercial 3D printer available for sale. Since then, the 3D printing industry has flourished, with 80,000 desktop 3D printers sold in 2013, 160,000 sold in 2014, and 275,000 in 2015.

A July 2016 report from CONTEXT, an IT market research company, forecasts the global 3D printing industry to grow to $18.4 billion in 2020. This growth largely stems from individuals like you and me entering into desktop or personal 3D printing. Chris Connery, VP for Global Analysis at CONTEXT, says, “… as generations before had to become familiar with PCs, this generation needs to learn 3D printing.”

3D Personal Printing Is No Gimmick

While you may think 3D personal printing is a fad now, there are already useful applications of 3D, such as exoskeleton hands for greater accessibility. And with 3D printers gradually making the production of items even more convenient and personalized, you would be unwise to underestimate the use of 3D printers in the future.

You can find a variety of 3D designs at MakerBot’s Thingiverse.com, the world’s largest open source 3D printing design community. Ross Maddox at LayerTrove also pulled together some great designs. Even if you don’t have technical expertise or previous experience with 3D printers, you can still create household objects, accessibility items, and much more.

3D Printed Toys

Are you an avid Pokémon fan? Thingiverse has many toy designs your children (or you) will love. Check out some of our favorite toy designs below.

Pikachu from Pokémon


Any Pokémon collector will want to add this Pikachu to their collection.

Minecraft Chess Set


Your little Minecraft players will enjoy playing chess with you using this Minecraft set.

“ROCKETZ” with Storage Compartments


These rockets come apart to create storage compartments.

3D Printing for Accessibility

Assistive and adaptive technologies play vital roles in allowing people and pets to lead their lives comfortably.

Adjustable Wheelchair for Dogs


Does your dog need some help getting around? Use this ingenious wheelchair made for canines.

Flexy-Hand

Watch how Jack uses his prosthetic hand.

Braille Business Card


This is a useful business asset for the blind community.

3D Printed Jewelry

Create custom jewelry and be the envy of your friends.

Caged Bird Pendant


This adorable necklace is perfect for a bird lover or anyone who wants to wear unique 3D jewelry.

Bracelet


Stay up to date on the cuff trend with this 3D printed bracelet.

“Daenerys Targaryen” Necklace


I f you’re a devoted watcher of Game of Thrones, you’ll want this 3D printed necklace fashioned after what the Khaleesi wears.

3D Printed Items for Your House

Make useful items for your kitchen, bathroom, and more.

Key Holder with Shelf


Keep your keys organized with this handy shelf.

Sushi Maker Set


You won’t need to go out for sushi with this set.

Toothbrush Holder


Make a functional and attractive holder for your toothbrush and toothpaste.

For more ideas, browse Thingiverse’s vast collections of designs. And let us know below what your favorite 3D design is.