3D printers are rapidly becoming the ultimate tool for small businesses as well as do it yourself hobbyists. You think of something unique, draw up the plans with a CAD program, then start printing. But for those people with a limited budget, computer CAD experience, and room for more hardware which takes up space, another option is to start small, and get practice with a 3D pen. Don't expect to start manufacturing things with a cheap pen. They won't provide the precision or resolution of an expensive 3D printer but they will be capable of making small replacement parts, repairs on existing parts, and are fun to use if you like to draw.
Here's an example of something which came in handy. I have a kitchen faucet with a pull out spray. The trigger valve on the top has a rubber cover which fell apart, and got lost over time. I didn't want to replace the entire spout over a missing cover, and couldn't find an exact replacement so I was able to make a replacement with a 3D pen which cost under $18. As you could see in the photos, it takes practice to make a good part. Don't expect perfect results on the first attempt. The results are a little on the rough side but it does the job. The last picture is an improved version. It was made much thinner so it's more flexible. The material is similar to rubber.
Here's an example of something which came in handy. I have a kitchen faucet with a pull out spray. The trigger valve on the top has a rubber cover which fell apart, and got lost over time. I didn't want to replace the entire spout over a missing cover, and couldn't find an exact replacement so I was able to make a replacement with a 3D pen which cost under $18. As you could see in the photos, it takes practice to make a good part. Don't expect perfect results on the first attempt. The results are a little on the rough side but it does the job. The last picture is an improved version. It was made much thinner so it's more flexible. The material is similar to rubber.
