Although inexpensive 3D printers have been available now for a few years, some readers of Fabbaloo may never have seen one in person.
And after reading so much about them, wouldn’t you want to take a closer look?
While some may take the plunge and purchase their own unit, others may not be so sure, particularly given the insane number of different 3D printer models and printing processes now available.
One way to do so is to simply visit your local Maker Faire, where 3D printers are frequently seen, along with other related maker machines and projects.
Maker Faire is a global phenomenon, produced by Maker Media, the publishers of Make: magazine, to promote the Maker Movement. Access to making machines of all kinds, including 3D printers, has empowered millions of people around the world to create new products and achieve visions not achievable in previous generations.
Some of these projects go on to become actual businesses, which promotes jobs and economic growth. Everything must start small, and a Maker Faire is an interesting place to see things begin. However, many ventures won’t survive, but a few will.
Maker Faires are held almost everywhere, and Maker Media has provided a convenient online map where you can find one near your location. They offer several “grades” of Faire:
- Flagship Maker Faires: Faires curated and produced by the Maker Media team
- Featured Maker Faires: Larger-scale regional events
- Mini Maker Faires: Community events
- School Maker Faires: K-12 Faires (closed to general public)
Costs to attend vary, depending on the event, but all are welcome to explore, with the exception of the closed school events.
At the major and flagship events, it is usually possible to see smaller 3D printer companies showing off their latest equipment, and sometimes even new models are launched at such events.
Regardless of the 3D printers present at the event you attend, I’m sure you’ll have a fine time and learn a great deal about making.
Via Maker Faire
