ItsTheMitchell

It's 12:37am as I write this sentence. I'm tired. I should be in bed, but there's a lot going on still. Well, not really, but umm... for this to make sense we're going to have to rewind a bit. I was a band director for most of my teaching career. Absolutely loved (most of) it, but teaching band takes its toll. Not only that, but I was feeling both complacent and restless. It was time for a change. A new challenge. I went back to school... you know... because being a full time band director, husband, and father wasn't enough on my plate, now I was going to add more work. I was going to add more commitments. I was going to add more things that require time, but had nothing I could let slip to be able to get that time. I was insane. I wrote reflections on bus trips with the high school marching band. I woke early while on family vacations to head to the hotel lobby to get an hour of quiet time to read. I took tests on a laptop while the kids were swimming in the

"I want to know about making money with 3D printing, and you show me a picture of a lamp?"                                                                                                     - My Reader... probably Yes, a lamp. Okay, look. There are more things we have to discuss about 3D printing, but I've teased you with the idea of profit long enough. It's time to get to it. There are some things you need to know first before you run out and buy a 3D printer, so sit tight and keep reading. First, take a moment to visit Etsy or Ebay and search for "3D Printed." Go ahead. I'll wait.... Back now? Good, let's keep going. There are tons of things for sale on the internet on platforms like Etsy and Ebay that are 3D printed. You could get in on that action too. Obviously there is a market there, and it's relatively easy and inexpensive to get started. Don't yet. Keep reading. I can tell you're excited about selling plastic trinket

Okay... yes, I know my finger is in the picture. Had a good laugh? Take your time. It's okay... laughter is the best medicine. Ready to move on? Okay, then. See that center cap on that wheel? The thing in the middle. It's gold, and has some kind of chicken logo on it in black. See it? That's 3D printed. Yes. I have 3D printed center caps on the wheels of my car. Intrigued? Let's keep going. There are so many parts to the what question when you are talking about 3D printing. What are you going to print? What printer are you going to buy? What filament are you going to use? What slicer? What 3D design software? Wait... What IS a slicer? So, as with the rest of my posts here, your mileage may vary. That being said, I'm going to share what works for me. It is not the only way to do it. It is not even close to the only solutions out there. Let's tackle some "whats." What #1 - What are you going to print?  Really. You need to ask yourself w