Status: AVAILABLE
Below is an image of some items I've printed and the different colors I have available.
To do something different, I'm going to try offering printing/design services on the forum. If you have an idea for an item that you want to become physical reality, there is a large possibility I can design the part(s) and create the assembly in a 3D printed fashion providing the 3D printed item(s) and/or final .STL files. It's great for prototyping and offering this service ensures you don't have to possess the CAD skills, 3D printing experience/equipment, or machinery maintenance knowledge. You get to "design" the item, choose the color, sizing, and quantity - while functioning as a client and receiving status updates throughout the process.
You can choose to have something custom designed or you can find something from thingiverse.com that is already available. I'm not sure of the price structure yet for custom work, but it will have to be broken down depending on if the item(s) requires CAD time and how many prototypes have to be created. Most models/parts don't require more than one print, but complex assemblies with mating parts and some models from thingiverse don't play well with the slicer (3D printing software). I'm currently using Simplify3D which is an extremely well tuned piece of software that rarely has an issue. The filament (ABS plastic) has a cost but it's quite minimal unless you want a large item printed in multiple quantities. The printing will be done in one chosen color (your choice) since the machine is the most reliable that way and multi-color prints currently require special .STL files until newer software is available. My machine has the capability to do dual color prints and I may offer this service in the future. The printed part(s) can be post-processed using sanding, painting, and various other methods. I will be offering optional full sanding services as an extra for post-processing and you can paint/seal the item with any method that's out there.
You can rest assured that your idea/design will be safe and won't be posted or shared anywhere without your explicit permission. I'll be operating on the premise that everyones custom design is private unless otherwise specified. If you have any question about the process, pricing, or color availability, please feel free to PM me or post on this thread.
Sample Cryptocurrency & Custom designed models
I custom designed the Bitcoin Toast stamp (~3.9in square) and Ethereum Capsule (~4.25in tall assembly) in CAD based off images I saw that other individuals posted on the internet. The Bitcoin logo stand was downloaded from thingiverse.
Printer information
My printer is an upgraded MakerBot Replicator 2X Clone. It's finely tuned and can churn out long or complex prints that may take the whole spool of filament. The maximum size that I can print is 9in W x 6in D x 6in H and my printers maximum resolution is 0.1mm (very fine detail). The prints come out much better than most other 3D printed items you see on the internet because I have machine knowledge which allows me to tune the settings for greater output quality. During the process there may be bumps in the road (required maintenance) for which I expect to overcome each one in a timely and effective manner. I'm operating one printer at the moment so I can only guarantee/take on so much work at a time and will strive to keep this thread updated with my status at the top.
3D Printing general information
3D printing takes time dependent on how large the item is. Small items can be printed in a matter of minutes/hours, while larger items can take multiple hours or even days. On thingiverse, there are a few models which aren't really meant to be printed and may not be printer friendly for the 3D Printing I do, FDM (fused deposition modeling). If you select one of these models for printing I will let you know it isn't something my printer can support. As you can see from the Terminator skull (has removable CPU housing!) in the sample image, intricate designs are possible while preserving detail and this shouldn't dissuade you from selecting something intricate.
Some items require support structure to be built with the part and this can leave a "mark" where the support is touching the part. Usually the support is from below and allows the part to build effectively in mid-air, it can be sanded or painted afterwards to post-process these "marks" out. I utilize ABS filament for printing as it holds up really well to UV rays and high temperatures/heat. On occasion, ABS warps a minor amount near some of the edges but this usually doesn't affect assembly and is also corrected via post-processing.
Pricing
For extremely large prints, filament payment will be required up front. Final pricing TBD based on initial requests. Thigiverse items will be printed at near the cost of filament and there will not be a large premium on the custom design service or printer time.
In the "Sample Cryptocurrency" image above, the Bitcoin Toast Symbol would be approximately $8 shipped, the Ethereum Capsule $18 shipped, and the Bitcoin Stand logo $8 shipped - all US shipping quotes. International shipping will have to be quoted based on destination. Special packaging may be required for certain printed parts if they have delicate features.
I will update this post with further information once I iron out all the details and pricing. Thanks for checking it out and find something you like on
http://www.thingiverse.com!