We’ve seen the success in social websites that offer a platform for user generated content, while engaging the community, like Flickr for example. But there are still plenty of untapped niches that would benefit largely from user engagement; 3D printing to be exact. Makeidea, now in beta, seeks to tap into that industry, and connect 3d designers everywhere.

Before Makeidea, a social platform for 3D printing, there was a large niche for designers, makers and developers; but no mainstream hub where users could gather, exchange ideas, get inspiration, or ask questions.

But now, there is a burgeoning community for 3D makers & designers that gives users the opportunities to create, review, or share their own 3D print files directly from Makeidea’s website.

Simplifying the process

Equipped with its own editor, but also compatible with your favorite modeling app, Makeidea makes it easy to create whatever 3D image you have in mind. Once you create or upload your file, you can add additional instructions and comments before publishing it for all of Makeidea’s users to learn from or even use.

If you choose to publish, you can also choose the usage limitations on your images. So, if you want to sell a particular model, you can do that directly through Makeidea; same if you want to give it away to other users for free.

Perfect for the experienced 3D connoisseurs, Makeidea is also awesome for beginners (or you’ve simply hit a roadblock and need inspiration). Makeidea’s community of more experienced users and examples can guide you to creating your very own images.

I would strongly advise anyone looking to buy a 3D printer, or that is new to 3D printing, to sign up for their service, bookmark it, or what have you. Makeidea will definitely be a hotspot for all of the big dogs to share their material, their methods, and practices, so you won’t want to miss out. The massive amounts of information, help, and expertise is sure to quickly transition your 3D printing from beginner to experienced.

#3Dprinting