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What is 3D Printing? A Simple Introduction to the Future of Manufacturing

Updated: Apr 12

Have you heard the terms "3D Printing" or "3D Printed" sometime in the last six months?

If you have, you're not alone. And if you haven’t, don’t worry—this is your chance to get caught up on one of the most exciting and transformative technologies of our time.


Whether you're familiar with 3D printing or just hearing about it for the first time, the truth is, very few people actually understand what it is or how it works. Ask someone what 3D printing is and you’ll likely hear, "Isn’t it when a printer makes stuff in 3D?"

Technically, that's true—but there's much more to it.

What Is 3D Printing?

3D printing is the process of creating three-dimensional objects by building them layer by layer from a digital file. The idea is simple: instead of subtracting material like traditional manufacturing (cutting, drilling, etc.), 3D printing is additive. It starts from nothing and adds material until a shape is formed.

To get started, you need a digital 3D file of the object you want to create. These files are commonly saved in a format called STL (short for stereolithography). You can create STL files using free and open-source software like Google SketchUp, MeshLab, or more advanced tools depending on your needs.


Once the STL file is complete, it’s loaded into a slicer program, which translates the 3D model into a set of instructions the printer can follow. The slicer compresses the data and creates layers that are then stored on a mini SD card and inserted into the printer.

The 3D printer takes it from there.


Using a spool of material called PLA (Polylactic Acid, a biodegradable plastic derived from corn), the printer heats the filament to around 200°C. That plastic is then pushed through a small nozzle, which moves on a multi-axis system to precisely place melted material, one layer at a time, until the object is fully built.

It may sound a bit complicated, but the result is almost magical.

Want to see it in action?


Check out this video:

3D Printing Is the Future

After spending time learning more about 3D printing over the past few years, I’m convinced this technology will be a defining force in the future of home and small-scale manufacturing. As smart home technology continues to evolve, so will the ability of everyday people to design and create exactly what they need—on demand.


Right now, 3D printing is still somewhat limited in terms of what the average user can produce. Many people use it for novelty items or household gadgets—fun and unusual creations, toys, or decorative objects.


But there are already companies and individuals using 3D printing for highly practical applications: prototyping new products, creating custom bike parts, even making tools and household components. The possibilities continue to grow.




When Crisis Hit, Makers Stepped Up

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the practical value of 3D printing became very real. As PPE shortages hit the U.S., people across Maryland and beyond began designing and printing face shields and masks from home. Non-profits, volunteers, and small businesses put their 3D printers to work—and the results made a real impact.

While these early designs were basic, they proved a powerful point: when supply chains are slow, 3D printing can be fast. This technology gave ordinary people the ability to help in extraordinary ways.



A Natural Fit for the On-Demand Economy

If there’s one thing today’s consumers want, it’s speed. First it was two-day shipping. Then one-day. Now, many customers expect products immediately.

3D printing is the next logical step.

Why wait for a replacement knob, phone stand, or stove handle when you could just print one at home? Instead of browsing endless product listings or making a trip to the store, people are learning to fulfill their own needs with a bit of filament and a design file.

And for small businesses? It’s an innovation tool. You can go from idea to prototype in hours. You don’t need an expensive manufacturing partner—you just need a printer and a plan.

Getting Started Is Easier Than Ever

You might think a 3D printer is too expensive, but that’s no longer the case.

  • Entry-level printers start around $175.

  • High-end desktop models go up to $4,000+.

  • Industrial models used by governments or aerospace manufacturers can exceed $100,000.


But for most users, a few hundred dollars is all it takes to open the door to a new creative world.


Here are a few examples (Updated 2025):

If you have any questions or want to learn more about 3D Printing feel free to reach out to me at bkostinsky@correallecompanies.com


 
 
 

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