Why You Should Build a 3D Printer for Your Shop
- Shop Nation
- Sep 7, 2020
- 1 min read
It's not secret that I am a 3D printing evangelist, especially when it comes to shop applications. I believe that just about anyone stands to benefit from having a 3D printer and in this video I go through the process of building one from a kit. Chances are that if you like building things in your shop you will enjoy building a 3D printer.
The specific kit I am putting together is a Prusa i3 mk3S from Prusa Research. I already own one of these 3D printers and am adding a second one to increase printing throughput. As you probably know I sell 3D printed tools and fixtures for woodshops and these machines produce those parts.
The Prusa kit comes in at $750 (US) and includes everything needed to build a complete, functional, 3D printer. In the kit you assemble all of the structural components, belts, bearings, motors, and even electronics. It's actually a lot of fun to build and as a bonus you end up with an intimate understanding of how your printer goes together and works.
If you have been on the fence about 3D printing - take the leap! It will provide a whole new set of solutions to solve problems and will probably force you to grow outside of your "making" comfort zone. If you have kids it also represents a great collaborative tool that you can share with them to get them excited about making things too.
Really enjoyed this! Building your own 3D printer not only saves money but also gives you the flexibility to customize and innovate for your shop projects.