The miracles of 3-D printing range from restaurant-caliber ravioli to human body parts. Ordinary consumers are increasingly gaining access to the technology at their local public libraries, where they can produce low-cost tools, toys or even shoes.
You’ll find libraries with printers in 35 states, in cities ranging in size from Denver and Washington, D.C., to Westport, Conn., and Glen Ellyn, Ill. Printing is typically free, but you may pay about $5 for materials (usually plastic). Libraries offer classes and online guides for people interested in designing their own objects. Or try free software, such as Tinkercad or 123D Design. If you want a professional design, you can find templates at Thingiverse.com.
Print household objects, from cell-phone cases to wall hooks, or homework helpers, such as a world map or DNA model. Or print your business logo on keychains. Avoid anything too large or complex because libraries place limits on the time it takes to print your object. If your library doesn’t have a 3-D printer, you can send designs to local services listed on 3DHubs.com and MakeXYZ.com, or visit one of 60 UPS stores with 3-D printers. A printer of your own costs about $200 for a basic model.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
Trump Picks Dr. Oz as Head of Medicare and MedicaidPresident-elect Donald Trump picked Dr. Mehmet Oz to lead the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Here's what to know about the former TV host.
-
What's Next for MicroStrategy Stock as Bitcoin Nears $100K?MicroStrategy stock is up more than fivefold in 2024 thanks to a furious rally in bitcoin. Here's what you need to know.
-
Roth IRA Contribution Limits for 2024 and 2025Roth IRAs Roth IRA contribution limits have gone up. Here's what you need to know.
-
Four Tips for Renting Out Your Home on Airbnbreal estate Here's what you should know before listing your home on Airbnb.
-
Five Ways to a Cheap Last-Minute VacationTravel It is possible to pull off a cheap last-minute vacation. Here are some tips to make it happen.
-
How to Figure Out How Much Life Insurance You Needinsurance Instead of relying on rules of thumb, you’re better off taking a systematic approach to figuring your life insurance needs.
-
Amazon Big Deal Days Is Coming! We’ve Got All the DetailsAmazon Prime To kick off the holiday season with a bang, Amazon Big Deal Days runs Tuesday, October 8 and Wednesday, October 9.
-
How to Shop for Life Insurance in 3 Easy Stepsinsurance Shopping for life insurance? You may be able to estimate how much you need online, but that's just the start of your search.
-
Five Ways to Shop for a Low Mortgage RateBecoming a Homeowner Mortgage rates are high this year, but you can still find an affordable loan with these tips.
-
Retirees, It's Not Too Late to Buy Life Insurancelife insurance Improvements in underwriting have made it easier to qualify for life insurance, which can be a useful estate-planning tool.
