A new internet based 3D printing service has emerged this year. It’s a really interesting (conceptual) business model that focuses on supply and demand in a very localized manner, with the central hub — the interface — being online.
The basic premise of makexyz is that anyone with a 3D printer, anywhere in the world, can register their printer at the makexyz website by creating an account and filling in a quick form that lists 3D printer details (capabilities, materials, volume etc) and location. Once on board, makexyz will send ready-to-print files from local designers, if you and your 3D printer are available, you set your price and then you print the parts and the maker picks them up or delivery is arranged. makexyz will then send the money and ‘positive maker vibes.’
The makexyz site is also the interface for the designers that want their parts printed – files can be uploaded directly. Makexyz organizes for the files to be printed in the designer’s local area and then organize delivery or pick up.
It’s a really simple idea, although I can see a couple of issues that might need ironed out, for instance once designers make contact with people with 3D printers in their area, why would they go through makexyz again? But the concept is engaging and I really hope to see it develop and grow into something great.
yes! I just used makexyz the other week and had an awesome experience.
Unfortunately makexyz is limited to the US only.
I am wondering which of the about 10 marketplaces with this same idea will become the leader. Just recently another one “ProtoExchange.com” started on Indiegogo.
About your last idea. There is no reason that they won’t circumvent the site after they make contact, but the same thing goes for etsy, and most of the current online marketplaces, but that hasn’t even slowed them down.
There is FabGate and Fabbeo in Germany
My experience with Makexyz has not gone well. The web site is not well thought out, in terms of makign it clear if you are sending to a local maker or not. My order ended up being sent to the other side of the continent. I contacted them immediately when I saw what they had done, but when they replied a few hours later, they said it was already in the mail, and wold be delivered to my home in 3 days.
It took over two days after that for them to actually ship it. So, the total time to get it will be over a week, which is 4 days beyond what they promised after sending the project to another sate.
Though xyz’ web site Ifound a local maker and contacted them directly. Hopefully I will get better results that way.