Shapeways

Shapeways is a leading digital manufacturing platform that specializes in additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. Since its inception, Shapeways has produced over 24 million parts for more than 1 million customers across 180 countries, demonstrating its extensive global reach and expertise in the industry.

Key Features of Shapeways:

1. Diverse Manufacturing Technologies:
   Shapeways offers access to 12 additive manufacturing technologies, including Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF), and Stereolithography (SLA). This variety allows for the production of parts with varying degrees of complexity and material properties.
2. Extensive Material Selection:
   Clients can choose from over 90 materials and finishes, ranging from versatile plastics like Nylon 12 to metals such as Stainless Steel 316L. This broad selection caters to both prototyping needs and end-use production parts.
3. Advanced 3D Model Viewer:
   In 2023, Shapeways introduced a 3D Model Viewer on its MFG.com platform. This feature enhances the quoting process by allowing manufacturers to view 3D models of custom parts, leading to more accurate and faster quotes. It includes advanced measuring tools and annotation capabilities for improved communication between buyers and manufacturers.
4. E-commerce Integrations:
   Shapeways supports entrepreneurs and businesses by offering integrations with platforms like Shopify and Etsy. This enables users to seamlessly connect their online stores with Shapeways’ manufacturing capabilities, streamlining order fulfillment and expanding market reach.
5. Professional Design Services:
   Through partnerships with design experts, Shapeways provides assistance in 3D file creation and optimization. This service is particularly beneficial for clients who require guidance in translating their concepts into manufacturable designs.

Benefits of Using Shapeways:

• Reduced Assembly Time:
  By leveraging 3D printing, complex geometries can be produced as a single piece, minimizing the need for assembly and reducing potential points of failure.
• Fast Turnaround:
  Shapeways’ efficient production processes enable rapid prototyping and production, allowing clients to receive models quickly and iterate as needed to finalize designs.
• Reliable Quality:
  With proprietary processes, skilled operators, and thorough inspections, Shapeways ensures consistent, high-quality products for every order.
• Cost Efficiency:
  The elimination of expensive tooling and the ability to produce parts on-demand reduce upfront costs and inventory requirements. This is particularly advantageous for mass production scenarios where traditional manufacturing methods may be less flexible and more costly.
• Supply Chain Resiliency:
  Shapeways’ digital manufacturing approach enhances supply chain flexibility by enabling localized production and reducing reliance on extensive global supply networks. This agility is crucial in responding to unforeseen disruptions and meeting just-in-time delivery requirements.

In summary, Shapeways combines advanced 3D printing technologies, a vast selection of materials, and comprehensive support services to deliver high-quality, customized manufacturing solutions. Its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction positions it as a valuable partner for businesses and individuals seeking efficient and reliable production capabilities.

What types of products can I create using Shapeways?

Shapeways offers a robust platform for creating an extensive variety of custom 3D-printed products. The platform is designed to cater to a wide range of needs, from personal items to professional prototypes or products that you can sell. Whether you’re an artist looking to create unique pieces or an engineer in need of custom prototypes, Shapeways enables you to create products with high precision and quality.

• Jewelry: You can design a variety of custom jewelry items, such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and cufflinks, using high-quality metals like silver, gold, and brass. Whether you’re looking to design elegant pieces or bold, statement-making accessories, Shapeways offers diverse materials and finishes to match any design.
• Home Décor: Create personalized home décor items such as lamps, vases, sculptures, and wall art. Shapeways’ wide material selection allows you to design functional yet artistic pieces that suit modern and contemporary interiors.
• Miniatures & Figurines: Whether you’re designing for a hobby or for professional use, you can create highly detailed miniatures, action figures, and models using materials that allow for intricate detailing and durability.
• Mechanical Parts and Prototypes: Engineers, designers, and manufacturers can use Shapeways to create custom mechanical parts, prototypes, and functional tools. The platform supports materials that are strong enough for real-world applications, like durable plastics and metals.
• Fashion Accessories: From custom phone cases to belt buckles, bracelets, and even shoes, you can create fashion items tailored to your specific needs. You can personalize designs with logos, patterns, and unique textures.
• Custom Gadgets and Toys: Whether you’re creating a unique tech gadget or a one-of-a-kind toy, Shapeways allows you to bring your ideas to life with 3D printing. This includes anything from phone holders to custom-designed board game pieces.

How does Shapeways ensure the quality of the 3D printed items?

Shapeways places a strong emphasis on quality assurance, making sure that every product meets the required standards before it’s shipped. This is achieved through a combination of advanced 3D printing technologies, stringent quality control processes, and a variety of material choices. Shapeways’ commitment to quality ensures that the items are durable, precise, and meet the customer’s expectations.

• Advanced 3D Printing Technologies: Shapeways uses a range of high-end 3D printing methods, including Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Multi-Jet Fusion (MJF), and Stereolithography (SLA). These methods allow for precise and high-quality prints with fine details, ensuring that your designs come out exactly as intended.
• Stringent Quality Control: Each item undergoes a detailed quality check process to inspect dimensional accuracy, material integrity, and surface finish. This helps maintain consistency and ensures that every item meets the platform’s standards.
• Post-Processing Options: Shapeways offers a wide array of post-processing services, such as polishing, painting, and coating, to improve the finish and durability of your items. Whether you’re looking for a matte or glossy finish, these options enhance the overall quality of your printed product.
• Materials Selection: Shapeways carefully selects the materials they offer, ensuring they are suited to the specific needs of each product. From highly durable plastics for functional items to fine metals for jewelry, all materials are chosen for their ability to withstand wear and tear while maintaining a high level of finish.

What materials are available for 3D printing on Shapeways?

Shapeways offers an extensive selection of materials for 3D printing, allowing designers to create products that meet various functional, aesthetic, and budgetary needs. Whether you’re designing a high-end jewelry piece, a complex mechanical part, or a decorative art object, Shapeways provides a wide range of materials suitable for all types of projects.

• Plastics:
  • Nylon 12 (Strong & Flexible): This durable material is ideal for creating functional parts, tools, and accessories. It’s lightweight, strong, and flexible, making it perfect for products that need to be both sturdy and flexible.
  • Smooth Fine Detail Plastic: Known for its high detail resolution, this plastic is perfect for intricate designs and models. It’s commonly used for figurines, jewelry, and highly detailed items that require precision.
  • Flexible Plastic: Offers a rubber-like texture that allows for bending and stretching. It’s perfect for wearables or items that require flexibility.
• Metals:
  • Stainless Steel: One of the most popular materials for creating durable, strong, and elegant items such as jewelry, mechanical parts, and even home décor.
  • Aluminum: Known for its lightweight yet durable properties, it’s often used for creating industrial products, tools, and custom parts.
  • Brass and Bronze: These metals are commonly used for jewelry and ornamental items. Their rich, warm tones provide a luxurious finish.
  • Gold and Silver: High-end materials for luxury items, such as rings, necklaces, and other fine jewelry.
• Resins:
  • Frosted Ultra Detail Resin: Provides exceptional detail and clarity, making it ideal for small-scale models, miniatures, and intricate designs.
  • Transparent Resin: Perfect for designs that need to showcase light or translucency, such as custom lighting fixtures and artistic models.
• Ceramic and Sandstone:
  • Ceramic: Great for making decorative items, sculptures, and art objects. Ceramic offers a glossy finish, ideal for high-end décor.
  • Sandstone: Offers a matte finish and is commonly used for small sculptures, models, and artistic designs.
• Specialized Materials:
  • Copper: Ideal for creating detailed, custom items like jewelry or metal parts.
  • Brass and Silver: These metals are perfect for making high-end, elegant jewelry pieces.

For more creative product inspiration, you can visit platforms like Stocksy and Teefury.

Shapeways Partnered or Affilated Program

Shapeways offers a Partnered or Affiliate Program designed to help users earn commissions by promoting Shapeways products and services through their website, social media, or other online platforms. This program is ideal for bloggers, influencers, designers, and businesses looking to earn passive income by referring others to Shapeways’ 3D printing services.

How to Join

1. Sign Up: Interested individuals or businesses can sign up for Shapeways’ affiliate program directly through their website.
2. Choose Your Promotion Method: Affiliates can choose how they want to promote Shapeways, whether through blog posts, social media, email campaigns, or other methods.
3. Start Earning: Once you’ve started sharing your referral links, you’ll begin earning commissions for each sale made through your link.