Diversify Your Income by Starting a 3D Printing Business

[@Immolate62]

Most of the Bambu print farms I've seen have used the P1P almost exclusively with the occasional P1S, A1 and X1C thrown in for kicks or special purposes that require an enclosure. It's not just economics. The X1C doesn't bring anything to the table from a production standpoint that the P1S doesn't do, and adding systems like LIDAR are just unnecessary points of failure. If you're not printing ASA or ABS, the enclosure isn't needed either, so go for the P1P. AMS is another story. For a personal printer, I wouldn't be without it. For a production printer, AMS is too inefficient for full color prints. For labeling on top or bottom as you did, it works just fine. Many would say that you can buy an A1 with the AMS Lite for the same price as a P1P alone, and that's right. But in my experience with two A1's printing almost non-stop, the occasional problem pops up requiring replacement of the heating element (thrice), the hot bed (once) or the extruder (twice). These printers put in over a hundred hours a week, which is a heavy load, and they just don't hold up as well as the P-series printers. My oldest, a P1S, has 3,000 hours with no parts changed out other than the hot end and the build plate. If you're buying a printer for your own giggles, then for sure get the one that makes you happy. If you're serious about production though, I recommend the P1P or the A1 if your budget is more constrained, either with or without AMS (depending on the kind of parts you're going to print.)

[@Ask-Jesus-for-the-Holy-Spirit]

That’s because it was the cheaper version a years ago, it will change out over the next 12 to 18 months

[@RobOfTheNorth2001]

Exactly this - the P1P is squarely aimed at being the workhorse of a printer farm. Who cares about closed source if it’s the most reliable and cost effective production printer out there? If you’re running a business you don’t want to have to waste time tinkering with your printers and software. The P1S is there for handling the occasional high temperature material order.

[@nkadyk]

I started with the same printer. Being made of laser cut pieces of wood and zip ties really raised the engagement in learning about what 3D printing was.

[@DuesFalchion]

As someone who has been following for a while as A 3D printer who also dabbled along with laser/woodworking projects, I'm SO EXCITED for you to be jumping (back) into 3D printing as well! Cheers!

[@Samcraftcom]

I'm very happy to hear that! I tried to not just geek out in this video, not knowing how others would receive it, but it simply amazes me how much the technology has progressed.

[@purvislewies3118]

thats my plan...(furniture)and more household things

[@nolanmeyer4052]

Watching your channel has made me want to explore 3D printing more as a business, keep up the great work!

[@shuster1921]

Much Thanks Sir! Just ordered an A1 and A1mini last week and have never touched a 3d printer in my life. These videos shine light on what can be done starting small and moving up as business grows. I'll keep an eye out for more of your videos,,, Subbed!

[@brandonrife]

I love your honest and straight-forward communication. I've been watching your videos in reverse order, strating with the one where you rearranged your 3d printers. I think you had 9 A1s, an X1, and a P1S. I hope you have lots of sucess as you grow!

[@Samcraftcom]

I appreciate that!

[@barrybowden5778]

I came across your video and wanted to say you are just like my wife. She also has a lot of businesses (hobbies or side hustles). So I can relate to what you are doing. I am looking forward to seeing all the things you are doing.

[@mmathis9860]

You’re such a calm soul.

[@mrst3433]

Hi iv just subscribed to you i purchased a Bambu lab x1c a couple of months ago and it’s absolutely fantastic i had never done 3d printing before then and iv been experimenting on different items and the Bambu lab has never let me down iv been looking for a new 15:17 business for quite a long time and thought this looked really interesting but im really stuck on what to make and sell Etsy is full of 3d printed items and im looking for different ideas but im finding software like CAD is quite hard to get around with my aging brain I will definitely be watching your videos for ideas Many thanks for uploading your interesting video

[@RosalaniArt]

I'm one of those people who have been interested in 3d printing since the beginning and have been waiting for the technology to refine itself. I think it might be time to dive in!

[@IndianaDiy]

Well, please be careful and make sure it's something you really want, it is an investment and a rabbit hole that expands fast!

[@bujin5455]

You're going to be one of two different people: 1) Someone who never uses their printer. 2) Someone who thinks they wasted a lot of time not buying one sooner. I haven't seen a lot of middle ground.

[@amyproebstel6227]

So nice to see you expanding your horizons with the 3D printer!!! Wambu Bambu!! Also, thanks for showing us what you learn we love learning along with you!! Take care and give your family a hug from us.

[@dab34rs]

Wambu Bambu!! Sam, thanks for all you contribute to the community!

[@oneChanelCherie]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I just got started so seeing someone else’s journey is encouraging. I too chose the Bambu but the A1. Looking forward to more of your videos.

[@georgehardy8165]

Hi Sam my Wife Carmen & I have been watching both of your channels on KZbin for many years, and we enjoy the content, never boring. There is always something new and interesting to watch and learn, you have a lot of talent that is for sure...! We wish and send our regards to you, Angela, and the boys...! From your friends here in Lima Peru George and Carmen 🙏

[@live4eva1987]

As soon as I saw this video come up I was glad you went into this area. I have my Bambu arriving in a week and it's going to be a game changer for my laser business

[@podman63]

Also a newbie a few weeks into ownership of a bambu A1 loving it sending prints from my phone is awesome

[@DueyMiller-rk9dr]

I have two bamboo p1s printers and they've been a basically disappointment. My problem is that I need to use Cura slicer for my projects. The bamboo slicer basically sucks for what I need. But I have figured out how to run a cura g code on the bamboo. Getting there I have taken apart both of the machines more times than I want to think about.

[@Alias8686]

Use Orca Slicer, it's a much improved fork of Bambu Slicer.

[@mango9805]

Thank you for sharing. Happy new year!

[@salemalzaabi3824]

Thank you, Sam, for this video. It helps me a lot in choosing my first 3d printer. Prepare yourself for a lot of questions and guidance from me in the future. I am thinking of starting a small setup from home. Thank you once again 😊🙏

[@edgar-j6h]

love watching your vids, Sam keep up the good work...especially your honesty

[@Samcraftcom]

Thanks, will do!

[@tonycollins1278]

Thank you for your experience in 3d printing. I HAVE NOT started yet but plan to. Any and all suggestions will be helpful. How much did it costs including the printer spool.

[@dannygoates5658]

Nice setup! Way to repurpose & modify existing items too. Thank you for the video!

[@RedRockingBird]

Whamboo Bamboo 😁 I really need to diversify what I make on my 3D printers, definitely going to make a jig for my lasers 👌 thanks for a great video Sam 🇬🇧

[@JoePrice-x2n]

Wamboo Bamboo! Great information, AS ALWAYS!! I am waiting on my Smartstitch to arrive and also looking at the XTool P2 laser and F1 Ultra to add to my business here in Texas.. Now I have another option for a revenue stream. Thank you for everything you do!

[@Samcraftcom]

Happy to help! I just received the xTool F1 Ultra and am testing it out now. That content should be coming up soon.

[@richardcrossen9480]

Good work, the more items the better the business. 🇨🇦

[@markah910]

I love your videos... you're so humble.

[@clydedecker765]

Love what you're doing Sam. I have followed another chap that has started a complete large scale print farm to make products he sells for Miter saws dust collection. His channel goes through his tribulations with printers in large quantities and what to do to avoid down time losses etc. Might want to do a binge watch on some of his stuff. Its called Shop Nation.

[@Samcraftcom]

Oh yes, I watch Travis' videos too. :) He also has a new channel just on Print Farming.. I think it's called Print Academy

[@simonr6793]

Good for you Sam, I too love the idea of basically having a number of different types of tools/machines so that I can at least have a go at making pretty much anything. I think that the only thing's you're missing now is a metal workings area. A plasma cutter and other bits and Bob's 🤔. As alway's buddy 💯% 👍 🇬🇧.

[@Samcraftcom]

I'm glad someone else thinks like I do. :) Metal working is interesting, but I don't know I have the space to do much else.

[@simonr6793]

@Samcraftcom that's two of us, Sam, just a very large pond between us 🤪.I don't know about you, but I have a bad habit of buying tools/machines with the plan of having a go when they arrive, but unfortunately, it never works out that way. To give you an idea, I bought the latest model 4x4ft cnc from Carbide 3d. I arrived around Christmas time in 2023. I managed to put it together around Feb 2024 and haven't had the chance to do anything with it, I did pretty much the same thing with a Gweike 55watt laser, except that sat in my dinning room still in it's shipping crate for six months before I got even near to opening the crate and putting it in my workshop. Again, I still haven't had a chance to do anything with it. There seems to be a pattern at the moment 🤔🤔🤯🤯.

[@herbveitenhans3285]

We started 3D printing over a year ago, started with one X1C, then bought another one. Definitely don’t regret it now but at the time it seemed like a lot of money. Now just waiting on my laser to get here so I can experiment with that too.

[@Samcraftcom]

Awesome!!!

[@jimmyjpa]

Thank you for another GREAT Video Please keep them comming !

[@RPGWoodworking]

i recently upgraded my old Ender 5 Pro with a Micro Swiss Direct Drive upgrade kit and WOW what a difference! My setup is nowhere near as good as the Wamboo Bamboo setup you have but I have to say that my upgrade has inspired me to start designing and printing stuff for my own needs instead of just doing the whole Thingiverse thing...although, i still do that too. good luck on your new endeavor and hope to see more of this in the future! Cheers!

[@anthonypaulus3489]

I have a wire shelf just like that and was about to give it away but you have inspired me to modify it for my printer workbench. I did keep the back poles the full length and connected the back board to it.

[@Samcraftcom]

That is awesome!

[@stefbekaelza]

Great job wish you lots of success and thank you for the motivation and sharing!!

[@brendahogue5487]

Sam love and enjoy your videos. May the lord bless and protect you and your family and the business

[@tris3s10]

thank you for this video great insight. simple and understandable.

[@Vintauri]

I picked up a Whambu Bambu A1 Mini for $199 to see how it might be as a starter 3D printer. I also had one of those laser cut kits back in the day, I think it was called a PrintRBot? Love to see more of this content from you Sam!

[@robthewaywardwoodworker9956]

Cool stuff, Sam. Hope you're enjoying the heck out of that new shop!

[@Samcraftcom]

Thanks! I sure am... I'm in here nearly every day and for long hours. I'm so thankful for it!

[@TacTechMic]

Sam, I believe in you. You have a creative mind, and that is awesome. Do you, and explain how and you’re doing great. Bury yourself in this, and you will become an expert. peace brother

[@kencotton4645]

Do you have any printers with larger print tables for bigger jobs than the Bamboo Labs can produce?

[@poppin_freshgaming4334]

I'm glad I found your channel. I'm going the opposite direction as you. Just started a small 3D printing business for me and my kids and am now looking into adding a CO2 laser. Looking forward to seeing your content around all things engraving and cutting.

[@LayerbyLayer365]

Whambu Bambu! 😁👍👍 Great job Sam!

[@magnusltd]

Pretty cool Sam! Been thinking about this for awhile...

[@Ozzie4Para]

I have that same black shelf which is where I store my filament. I would think that shelf would be wobbling like crazy with an X1C sitting on top. The shelf is nice but its definitely not sturdy enough considering how bad the X1C shakes and vibrates....

[@cscoconut]

Wambu Bambu!! I just received my first 3d printer Bambu P1S and excited to turn into a business. I also have an idea for a product niche I have not seen made yet just need to model it and bring to realization! Thank you for the great advice and guidance.

[@Samcraftcom]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and I hope your business is successful!

[@RumMonkeyable]

Embroidered iron-on patches?

[@scottengdahl4868]

Wambu Bambu! Thanks for the info and inspiration!

[@edwardaleman1658]

When your printing the resins a carbons they exhaust toxic fumes. Don’t you need direct ventilation when printing that type of material?

[@aussiegolddogcnc3d412]

Well done Sam. Diversification is the word in business. I wish you luck mate you’re amazing just for having a go. Cheers. 😊

[@Samcraftcom]

Thank you!

[@watahyahknow]

you could build the connection pieces and the steppermotormounts for open frame lasercutters with the 3d printer , maibe design youre own based on youre experiance with the types you worked with could allso reproduce some of the woodworking tools like the jigs ro drill the kitchendoor hinges pockethole tools roundover jigs for use with a router maibe improved holders or stands for existing tools , could do extraction fan or dustcollection mouths for diverse tools

[@EBussom]

Love the jigs, 3d printer looks awesome.

[@TheExtremeElementz]

Great choice on the Bambu! I have my P1S and with my MakerWorld designs and print profiles I have lots of "points" waiting for the newest Bambu Printer when it releases. Can't wait!

[@Samcraftcom]

Awesome!! The P1S will likely be the additional printers I get when I expand... unless better ones show up in the meantime. :)

[@jsgrizzly19]

What’s your thoughts on the Bambu P1S? Could you do a video on different types of filaments that you use and recommend for certain types of jobs?

[@bradsexton7295]

I know nothing about 3D printing, but I enjoy the content.

[@KevinBrowne-fm9nc]

Hey Sam, Another great video as always. My question is.....dose this X1-Carbon 3D printer need any air purification? It states a carbon filter but there are mixed reviews on-line about this? any clarification would be very much appreciated! :-)

[@suesgsmn1]

Wambu bambu..... I love that you do and share all these different things. HAGD 😺

[@MartinDdorf]

How do you calculate the prices? Best wishes from germany! 😊

[@MaximAvs]

I do enjoy seeing everything you do as part of your business, but would you be willing to share the process of starting a business? (ie formulating a structure, registering your name, getting an EIN, etc). I like the idea of this channel not only being a SamCraft crafting channel but also , how to start and run a business channel.

[@scogadots]

Great job, Sam! Good luck!

[@Samcraftcom]

Thanks so much!

[@RoseKindred]

I have been 3D printing for a long time now, and the Bambu series is great, but, it is not for everyone. If the work involves NDAs or security, you should not be using it. That being said, it is one of the most user and entry FDM-friendly printers in quite a while. Fast and simpler than most others.

[@3Dgifts]

Is it because it’s cloud based? Isn’t there an offline mode?

[@RoseKindred]

@@3Dgifts I am not tech savvy enough to fully explain, but in short Bambu is a "closed system." The logs that are sent to Bambu for every print include more than just the needed information. 3D Musketeers talks about it, but people have been able to get into the locked info that is sent. Bambu told many... untruths on what they get. The simplest one is they said they don't get the gcode, but they do. And you can use the gcode itself to remake the model. Hence, the NDA and security worries.

[@3Dgifts]

@@RoseKindred thank you, good to know. Adding to this, I wonder if someone does some packet analysis and basically drops all those packets at the firewall 😉🤔

[@RoseKindred]

@@3Dgifts I wish I knew. From what I watched most of it went over my head but they went through everything. Even multiple F-resets do not work. For example, the printer they tested was reset multiple times and the printer still sent the past info. So it not only has new info it resent the past info it already sent. Kinda like how you can get old print jobs from refurbished copiers.

[@SumDumChum]

Interesting, I guess If I ever get to the point in my journey this late in life, and come up with that "thing-a-mabob" that I'm genuinely worried about I'd consider a less worrisome ecosystem. I've heard that but wondered if we just disconnected from the internet and used just SD cards. I'm not claiming to state that approach works as I'm still new to the hobby

[@tim71291]

The x1c renewed my interest in 3d printing, as well as learning a ‘respectable’ CAD system. Like you, making jigs for my xTool D1 pro was a natural move, and the ease of initial design to finished product without failures is truly worth the cost. So - Wambu Bambu! I am not easily won over but this has kept me moving forward every since it arrived.

[@ronnie100393]

Question: can you make the feet extensions that raise the roly mk2 off the table, there are four feet and you need to raise the machine about 6”.

[@Samcraftcom]

That shouldn't be a problem with the correct dimensions! Send me an email at [e-mail]

[@georgewilmore7599]

I was spoiled my first 3D Printer was a $32000 printer I talked the school superintendent into buying for my engineering class. They have come so far in the 12 years since then.

[@Samcraftcom]

Wow! That was probably a much better experience than I had. :)

[@chriswhaling3715]

Great Video Sam.

[@bobbennett7195]

Good luck on all your endeavors.

[@TP-si3km]

👍😃Danke für das Video. Gute Idee mit dem 3D Druck

[@IanNubbit]

Bambu Lab is great as the "iPhone" of printers, the best at a few things pure consumers want, but ALOT lost for the open source, and user experience side. That's why lot's of large scale companies are still using Prusa machines.

[@bobbybaldeagle702]

Where did you get your 3d printer and about how much did it cost????

[@mikepetitt9624]

Wham boooo bambooo😂 wow Sam this is great! I think this may have been the same machine I saw on 731 wood works channel? Any way he got his not to make things to sell but to print custom tool holder inserts for tool boxes and wall organizers. Made since to me as I’m finally just a few weeks away from moving into my new shop and will be starting from a blank slate. So may be another avenue for you to consider? Thanks for always needing out with us I always learn very cool stuff from you especially your shop build you saved several mistakes for sure and was perfect timing for me to use some of your tricks. Keep up the good work 😊

[@StoneGully]

I got the Bambu lab carbon x1 in 2023 I used it for what I bought it for but now it just sits there and I haven’t found products I wanted to make. I need ideas? I sell eco products I tried making sprout lids but it didn’t make them well. But I don’t know how to design files so maybe I need a design program? Long time follower glad you’re headed down this rabbit hole too. My lasers run six days a week but just lack inspiration with this 3d thing.

[@TheLouisianaHobbyGuy]

*What is a Whambu Bambu??* 🤪 Welcome to the club! But remember, _1 is none, and 2 is 1_ 😜 You need at least 2 to run a business, probably more. When 1 goes down...

[@Samcraftcom]

You are absolutely right my friend!! I'm already planning the next few to get... would be nice to see some 3D coins coming my way to validate the investments, but I'm an easy one to talk into tax write offs too. :)

[@AlexSwavely]

Wanna bet you get offered another just for being a youtuber?

[@harlowchurch]

Great video. Whambu bambu

[@wadetyler5056]

An acquaintance of mine came up with an idea to have a system whereby some one could send you the 3d file and you could print it out under contract. This could also be automatically billed through the same system…just a thought.

[@paddy4965]

I am starting a 3d printing business and buying bamboo lab X1CC Please recommend the 2nd printer should I you buy bamboo lab A1 with AMS light combo

[@mickeyakins232]

What's in the boxes? Why not the Bambulab p1p?

[@amandastrickland3181]

How do you pick products to print and sell that you will find success in?

[@PCPerks757]

I just got my X1 Carbon a few days ago! Loving it!

[@Samcraftcom]

I have to agree, it's amazing for sure!

[@bryanyoder4161]

sam what item or combination of itwms do you use for payment for your business? credit card reader , paypal. i am just do research for the things i am going to need to start my own 3D company. thank you for your info. Bryan

[@Samcraftcom]

All of my transactions take place through one of my sales platforms -- shopify, etsy, ebay. If it's a local customer, I still send them the invoice and payment through my shopify store. It's easy to create custom invoices. This keeps my books correct and legitimate while also giving them options to pay and track their expenses with me if need be. In the rare instance I take cash payment, I still create the invoice in shopify and send it to the customer. That way my income and sale is still tracked correctly for my business.

[@ChristianLappinOFFICIAL]

Wambu Bambu!! Sam! Congrats, and welcome to the Bambu family. I see on that workbench you have space for another Bambu, so I can't wait to see you grow into a second! That's what happened to us. Lots of 24-hour prints pushed us into another printer. If you need any help, feel free to reach out to me. I'm happy to help! Your ultimate jig for the F1 video and file I am still using, so looking forward to perhaps seeing you offer your STLs for the jigs as well.

[@Samcraftcom]

Oh yes... there may be another (or more) on the way. :) When a one time purchase can immediately affect your production time it just makes sense!

[@ChristianLappinOFFICIAL]

@@Samcraftcom awesome 👍 super excited for you. If you need anything let me know

[@danhalpert2284]

I'd be happy buying supplies from you too ! Just a thought.

[@Samcraftcom]

Awesome! But I'm not sure what you mean?

[@myrnacook2952]

Can you duplicate a small part to an Ott light? I can not find this part to buy nor find my light so it must be out of production.

[@jegesmaci1298]

Excellent Video! I would love to see what you do to design for the Bambu

[@tommyholmberg8961]

Need a link for the intro song 😅 Awesome version 🤩

[@deannaoverstreet4146]

Thanks Sam

[@AlexanderTrust]

Does the display have a crack? Or did you not yet peel the safety foil?

[@gerryoneill8881]

Good video Sam.

[@karencary3312]

Shampoo bamboo. Love watching you.❤❤❤❤

[@russgare6523]

I have 2 Bambu lab X1 Carbons with the AMS and they are great. I don't know if you got any spare parts but it's a good idea to have a few hot ends on hand.

[@Samcraftcom]

Mine came with an extra 0.4 nozzle, but I've since bought a few more full hot ends and a few 0.6 nozzles. Plus more textured plates, and a buss load of filaments. :) I'm looking forward to letting this business pay for more printers too! Consider me hooked. LOL

[@Burnt_clutch89]

getting into printing, to make money. always winds up failing. have fun while it lasts tho

[@AllIsWellaus]

I'm an artist... and I'm desperate in becoming financially independent. I live with CPTSD. Its managable and I know I could make a go of it. There's definitely the incentive there. :) I am an paper, mostly working with paper and considering translating my work through wood, as I do with paper. I do like technology and your video and looking at your 3D printer is certainly seductive. :) I'm based in New Zealand and work a few hours each week as a domestic cleaner ($30 an hour) to afford me a small studio, so I've been trying. Becoming independent through art can be one of the most challenging of industries so, I'd like to be realistic. I wonder if you were able to offer me any advice, I'm open to learn and certainly to be transparent as you have been with us. Cheers: )

[@purvislewies3118]

supercool...i started also with a new business,get ourself a 2nd hand ender 3 v2...next is a engraver...all the best in your path

[@Samcraftcom]

Awesome!!! Same to you with yours!

[@keithclark8030]

Hey Samcraft! This is the first video I have seen of yours. Just a question about the CNC location. Due to limited space, I may have to put the CNC in the house. Since it a small home, it may be the Livingroom (good thing I'm not married). Did you have yours in the house? I am looking at more than just one thing to do.

[@takura187]

Would love to start a business, but I cant keep the quality of my prints consistent.

[@laserengravingwithmatt]

WOW that is awesome! How is the CAD that came with it?

[@wcmeyer6846]

thanks for what you do and share.

[@krisknowlton5935]

Sam, what 3D design software do you use? I bought Alibre because once you buy it, it is yours forever and it doesn't rely on the cloud.

[@Samcraftcom]

I use TinkerCAD right now (free online). I figure when I outgrow it, I'll see what is best at the time. :)

[@jesusislord2457]

You're my hoss, if you never win a race! You video it, I'll watch it! Hi Angela and The Boys!!! ✌️💖🙏🇺🇲🤜

[@heffe2001]

ANY of the Bambu printers are almost a 'send and forget' style printer.. If you don't want to put out the higher price for the X1C, the P1S is absolutely a viable solution as well (that's what I have, among other brands as well). One word of advice on these faster printers, if at all possible, use another infill other than grid, or you'll end up eventually with either a bent nozzle, or a print that's been knocked off the bed (and possible mess on the head to clean). Gyroid is the most preferred at the moment.

[@Samcraftcom]

Thank you for the advice! The P1S is probably the models I'll get when I expand the 3D print business... unless better models are released. :) Thank you for the guidance on the gyroid infill too... I've only used the default grid infill. So far no issues with any print jobs, but still good to know! I appreciate your advice!

[@HoneyHollowHomestead]

Do you have an idea of the structural strength of 3D printed stuff?

[@watcherofwatchers]

It completely depends on the material used, the design, and the printing parameters.

[@Samcraftcom]

Depending on the material used, of which there are tons available now, it can be very strong!

[@kirklanam151]

Can you start making those for the F1 Ultra? I had a bunch in my cart before I realized that the F1 Ultra has a 220x220 base -vs- the 115x115 base of the F1. Glad I caught it before I checked out :)

[@Samcraftcom]

I am in the process of that right now! :) I'm expecting my F1 Ultra in the next week to validate my layouts and XCS file creations.

[@8thsinner]

I've seen many businesses go with the x-max 3 from qidi, unless you actually need the multicolour options because the proprietary thinking behind bambu's work flow, and the amount of waste produced from multicolours is ridiculous. But as you have it, theres a hack out there that cuts purge waste down 40% or there abouts. might wanna look for that. I don't have either but thats what my research is revealing...which is why I'm leaning towards qidi, and the larger volume isn't bad either. In my head, for jigs you probably aren't going to be doing multi colour prints only different coloured prints so I'm not sure you made the right call there, and the larger volume for jigs means you could have gotten more products on one sheet...depends on what lasers n stuff people have too I suppose though so...Will be interesting to see how this new venture pans out.