Last week in our how to sell your 3d print guide, we spoke about understanding your market, researching your 3d printing competition, and the importance of working out your profit margin.

This week in our How to Sell Your 3D Printed Products Online guide we will talk about some legalities you should think about, setting up your online stores, and talk about product photography.

So grab your favorite beverage and let’s dive in.

Legal Considerations – Selling 3D Prints Online

If you plan to sell your creations, it’s crucial to consider the legal landscape surrounding intellectual property (IP). Copyright and patent laws play significant roles in this sector and can impact what you are allowed to print and sell.

Copyright laws protect artistic and literary works, which in the context of 3D printing, could include designs, models, and even specific parts of a product.

If a design is copyrighted, reproducing it without permission could lead to legal repercussions.

On the other hand, patents protect inventions and give the inventor exclusive rights to produce or sell the invention.

If a 3D printed object includes patented technology or design, producing it without consent from the patent holder could lead to patent infringement claims.

Understanding and complying with these IP laws is essential not only to avoid legal challenges but also to respect the rights of original creators and inventors.

Before using or selling a 3D printed design, ensure it does not infringe on existing copyrights or patents.

This might involve conducting thorough research into available public patents or seeking permissions or licenses where applicable.

Adhering to IP laws not only protects you legally but also fosters a culture of respect and fair use in the growing 3D printing community.

Setting Up an Online Store To Sell Your 3D Prints

When setting up an online store to sell your 3D printed products, choosing the right e-commerce platform is crucial. Popular options include Etsy, Shopify, and creating your own website. Each platform has its strengths and is suitable for different business needs.

Etsy is ideal for those just starting out or with smaller inventories. It’s user-friendly, and because it’s a marketplace, it has a built-in audience interested in unique and handmade items. However, sellers pay listing fees and a percentage of each sale.

Shopify offers more customization and control, making it suitable for growing businesses looking to brand and scale their operations. Shopify charges a monthly subscription, but it provides extensive tools for managing your inventory, marketing, and sales analytics.

Your Own Website offers the most control and branding opportunity. Using platforms like WordPress with WooCommerce, or Squarespace, you can design your store exactly how you’d like. Initial setup might require more technical skill or hiring a developer, but you’ll save on marketplace fees and have complete control over your store’s functionality.

Setting Up a Shop:

1. Choose Your Platform: Based on your business size, technical skills, and budget.
2. Register and Set Up an Account: Follow the platform’s registration process to create your store.
3. Customize Your Store: Choose a template and customize it to match your brand.
4. Add Products: Upload product photos, write descriptions, and set prices.
5. Set Up Payments: Configure how you will accept payments (e.g., PayPal, credit cards).
6. Test Your Store: Conduct transactions to ensure everything is working as it should.
7. Launch: Announce your store opening through social media, email newsletters, etc.

By following these steps, you can set up a functional and appealing online store that showcases your 3D printed products effectively.

High-Quality Product Photography

High-quality product photography is essential for selling 3D printed items online. Clear, professional photos not only enhance the appearance of your products but also build trust with potential buyers, demonstrating that you value quality and detail.

Importance of Professional Photos: Professional photos showcase your products in the best light, highlighting the unique textures and intricate details characteristic of 3D printing. Good imagery captures the imagination of your audience, making your products more desirable and helping to increase sales. Photos are often the first point of interaction with your customers, making them crucial for a positive first impression.

Tips and Tricks for Effective Product Photography:

1. Lighting: Use soft, natural light to avoid harsh shadows and highlight the details of your products. A simple setup with a few daylight bulbs and a lightbox can significantly improve photo quality.
2. Background: Keep the background simple and neutral to ensure the focus remains on the product. White or light gray backgrounds are ideal as they reflect light better and enhance product visibility.
3. Angles and Composition: Take multiple photos from different angles to give a complete view of the product. Ensure the product is centered and occupies a majority of the frame.
4. Focus and Clarity: Use a tripod to keep your camera steady and ensure your photos are sharp and clear. Adjust the aperture settings on your camera to get the depth of field right, keeping the product in focus while softly blurring the background.
5. Editing: Post-process your images to adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness. Be careful not to over-edit, as this can make images look unrealistic.
6. Consistency: Maintain a consistent style and quality across all product photos. This consistency in visual presentation helps to build a strong brand image.

By following these tips, you can create compelling and professional photographs that will make your 3D printed products stand out online, attracting more customers and driving sales.

What’s Next In The Selling Your 3D Prints Guide?

In part 3 we will tackle the subject of marketing your 3D prints to get the best chance of selling them, and we will also cover the importance of having excellent customer service.

I hope you have enjoyed part 2 of this selling your 3D prints guide, if you missed part 1 you can go back and read it here.

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