Short answer: like magic. Long answer: we help people make stuff by connecting people who need something 3D printed with makers and print shops neighborhood. You browse printers in your zip code, and after you have found one, you upload your file, choose your color, material, zip code, and checkout. They print it for you and then either ship it to you, or hold it until you can pick it up. It's an easy way to get quality 3D prints fast.

Good question. If you need to have something printed, we have 3D printers in your area. And the printers set their own prices. So how much does it cost? Well, it depends. But you will certainly be able to find a printer that matches your budget. For printers, it's free to list your printer on makexyz.

Currently we can print ABS, PLA, Nylon, Wood, and Aluminum. With more materials (chocolate!) coming soon. More colors are being added every day. Currently red, blue, green, purple, clear, white, black, silver.

By request. Email nathan@makexyz.com.

First of all, we will never give out anyone's address without their permission. When the customer is placing an order they choose whether they would like to have the item shipped, or to pick it up themselves. If the customer chooses shipment, the printer places the print in the mail after it is finished. If the customer chooses to pick up the item, he or she is responsible for meeting the printer to pick up the item. Most of our printers and customers choose to meet in coffee shops or near their places of work to hand-off the finished products.

It's completely free. You set the price per cubic centimeter that you will charge, then when you receive an order through makexyz, we offer that print to you at the price you have designated.

If you have added your printer to makexyz, your printer profile is, well, your profile. It lists the materials you print in, the colors you print in, and has a bit of personal information about you too. Printers use their profiles to easy gather and quote orders. If someone orders through your profile, we send you the file to print, the money, and the order details.

Many makexyz printers have had success posting links to their profiles on their facebook, twitter, google+, etc. And posting on their local craigslist and reddit. Also emailing your address book is very effective. Post links to your printer profile, then watch the orders come in!

The printers set their own prices (a $ per cubic centimeter). So it's great for the printers; they can keep their printers humming and make some money / maker friends on the side!

Lots. We have good coverage in most metro areas.

We have really enjoyed working with printers who care about their product. Most of our printers sign up because they love printing in 3D and want to do more of it, helping people make cool stuff. They certainly don't seem to be looking for a lazy buck. Which is awesome. That said, if there is a serious quality issue, we refund the purchase and remove the printer from our system.

email nathan@makexyz.com

Yes.

Han.