Getting involved in 3D printing doesn’t have to be as expensive as you might think. First of all, there are different brands and models of affordable 3D printers that can perfectly meet your needs. Additionally, several platforms and sites offer free 3D printing projects to help you get started. That said, as with many technology-centric hobbies, there are some “hidden costs” associated with 3D printing that you should be aware of.
Many of these relate to the ongoing costs of operating and maintaining 3D printing equipment. For example, running a 3D printer for around 100 hours per month can add a few extra dollars to your monthly electricity bill. This may not seem like much at first, but these costs can add up if you’re not careful.
None of this is meant to discourage anyone from pursuing this hobby. It’s just important to know what you’re getting into from a financial standpoint when you start learning the ropes of 3D printing. Being economically prepared will help you with everything from choosing initial projects to planning upgrades.
The cost of materials
Just like a traditional home printer needs ink to operate, a 3D printer also needs materials to produce physical objects. This means that you will need to regularly purchase materials such as filament, resin, or both to consistently use your 3D printer. The cost of these materials can add up over time.
This is especially true if you make mistakes in your first experiments and have to start over or abandon projects altogether. Or you may find that the materials you are working with are no longer satisfactory. Sometimes a project may call for a stronger material than you started with, or maybe you just want to use a different color.
It’s worth noting that strategic use of a 3D printer can, in theory, offset some of these costs. For example, there are many 3D printing projects that can save you money by allowing you to print inexpensive alternatives to items that you might otherwise spend more money on. However, you cannot ignore the fact that you will always need to restock your materials if you want to continue using your 3D printer.
The cost of repairing, replacing and upgrading parts
A 3D printer is a complex machine. Like almost all complex machines, they are made up of many components that wear out with time and use. So, someone purchasing a 3D printer should consider the possible cost of repairing and replacing these components.
It may also happen that a 3D printer part still works technically, but still does not meet your needs. For example, different 3D printer nozzles and nozzle sizes give users more flexibility on their projects. This is an example of a part that a budding 3D printing enthusiast may feel the need to upgrade relatively early on as they learn the hobby.
Examples like this highlight the importance of conducting thorough research when purchasing your first 3D printer. While you need to consider your budget, you also need to consider the types of projects you want to work on. This will improve your chances of choosing a 3D printer that’s right for you, rather than investing in a unit that requires substantial upgrades to meet your expectations.
The cost of 3D printing models
Again, there are various platforms through which 3D printing enthusiasts can access free models and files for 3D printing projects. While these models may satisfy new hobbyists, they might not impress those with a little more 3D printing experience under their belt.
As you become more familiar with this hobby, you may decide to work with more sophisticated models. The cost of models can vary significantly. Some may only cost a few dollars, while others may be closer to $100. For custom projects, you may need to hire a designer. This can cost you up to $200 per hour, depending on the complexity of the project, the experience level of the designer, and other factors.
Keep this factor in mind when choosing which projects to start with as you learn the basics of 3D printing. As you might assume, small projects with relatively few parts tend to cost less than large, complex projects. They are also generally better suited to those with limited 3D printing experience.
Remember, the purpose of this information is not to deter. 3D printing can be very rewarding. That said, it’s more likely to be the case if you know what to expect in terms of costs.
