Chapter 2. 3D Printing and the Maker Movement

Many people find the act of making very satisfying. New, inexpensive, and more readily available technologies are allowing makers and DIYers to do things they couldn’t do before. Inexpensive 3D printers are enabling ordinary people to make their own jewelry, toys, mechanical parts, and many other items.

Impact of the Maker Movement

The “maker movement,” an extension of the DIY community, has had a tremendous influence in promoting consumer awareness of 3D printing. Hundreds of thousands of people have learned about 3D printers and saw them in operation for the first time at Maker Faires. Figure 2-1 shows attendees at a local Mini Maker Faire listening to our lecture on 3D printing.

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