Hasta La Ideas

Here’s a great example of a design entrepreneur with a 3D printer, and how they were able to parlay some good design ideas based on their hobbies into a successful Etsy shop.

The aptly-named TreeHugger Systems came up with this simple, 3D-printed $12 hook and bungie system ($12) to keep a backpack up off of the ground:

An even simpler 3D-printed $4 cord wrap:

A $12, lightweight 3D-printed utility knife and cord wrap that integrates an off-the-shelf cheapie compass:

And this simple Camping Gear Plate that goes for $9.60 and keeps things organized in your backpack:

The shop’s sales are in the hundreds and the margins can’t be huge, but the reviews are all solid. All in all, an inspiring example of a guy or gal with good ideas using digital fabrication to start a successful small business. Investigate your hobbies; this could be you!