Shapeways

Shapeways

Shapeways is an online 3D printing service and marketplace. Users can upload their 3D model designs and have them printed in various materials and shipped directly. Shapeways offers printing in materials like plastic, metal, and sandstone.
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3d-printing 3d-models custom-printing marketplace

Shapeways: Online 3D Printing Service & Marketplace

Upload your 3D model designs for online printing in various materials like plastic, metal, and sandstone, with direct shipping options.

What is Shapeways?

Shapeways is an online 3D printing service and marketplace that allows users to make, buy, and sell 3D printed products. Users can upload their own 3D model files created in CAD or 3D modeling software and have them printed in various materials like plastic, metal, sandstone, and ceramic.

After uploading a design, users choose the material, color, and size they want it printed in. Shapeways will then manufacture the product and ship it directly to the customer. Products range from jewelry, art, home decor, gadgets, miniature figurines, and more. Users do not need their own 3D printer - Shapeways handles the printing and shipping.

In addition to custom 3D printing, Shapeways has an online marketplace where independent designers and artists can upload and sell their printable designs. Shoppers can browse over 1 million 3D printed products for purchase from these designers. This gives independent makers a manufacturing and distribution channel without needing to have their own printer.

Some key capabilities and benefits of Shapeways 3D printing service include: no upfront costs, ability to print very complex geometric designs, variety of printing materials and colors, easy online interface for uploading and ordering prints, access to a global manufacturing and distribution network, and integration with major online marketplaces.

Shapeways Features

Features

  1. 3D printing service
  2. Online marketplace for 3D printed products
  3. Allows users to upload 3D model designs
  4. Prints models in various materials like plastic, metal, sandstone
  5. Ships printed models directly to users

Pricing

  • Pay-As-You-Go

Pros

Easy way to get 3D models printed without owning a 3D printer

Large selection of materials to choose from for printing

Marketplace allows users to sell their printed designs

Good quality 3D printing and materials

Fast turnaround time on printing orders

Cons

Can be expensive for large or high detail prints

Limited selection of colors for some print materials

Printed models can be fragile for some materials

Model design errors can result in failed prints

Marketplace takes a commission on sales


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