MakerBot’s 3D model repository, Thingiverse, has over 500,000 free 3D printable models. And, while you can follow your favorite members of the Thingiverse community and they can follow you back, MakerBot has introduced a new feature that brings everyone on the site a little bit closer together, called Thingiverse Groups.
Groups gives users the ability to join and create sub-communities devoted to specific topics or types of designs. These mini clubs enable a subculture within the Thingiverse subculture to start discussions and share designs with others that within that Group. You can easily imagine that medical Makers might form a Group devoted to medical models, CT scans, and the like. Or those involved in designing prosthetics could share design ideas within their own Group. You get the idea!
You can already find a few Groups on the site, including My First Make, devoted to initial printing experiences, or a few different clubs surrounding specific 3D printer models. If you’re unhappy with what’s up there, you can start your own. Need ideas? How about a Group titled, “Not a fan of Brendan Frasier.” And, if you hate or love any or all of this new feature, you can join Groups Feedback to let ’em have it.
