What Is 3D Printing? And How Does It Work?

3D printing is exactly what it sounds like – using a machine to create a three-dimensional object out of thin air. Well, not exactly thin air. They use everything from metals to ceramic powder. But the process does look like magic. (Before I go on, it’s worth noting that 3D printing goes by a number of different names, including: rapid prototyping, direct manufacturing, solid freeform fabrication, and additive manufacturing. I’ve chosen to use the term 3D printing, but they all mean approximately the same thing.)

I suspect that this is the sort of thing that, regardless of any identified purpose, would be useful in ways you can’t imagine until you have it and have learned how to use it.