3D Printing Service Near Portage

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Community 3D Printing Instead of a Traditional Service Bureau

Bring your file, learn the workflow, and print it yourself with help from our members.

Instead of dropping parts off at a commercial 3D printing shop, Kalamazoo Makerspace gives you access to the tools directly. Use our desktop FDM 3D printers, get informal training, and learn how to run your own prints for prototypes, cosplay, DIY repairs, and more.

Who This 3D Printing Option Is For

  • DIY makers who want affordable access to 3D printers in Kalamazoo.
  • Students from local high schools and colleges who need prints for class projects.
  • Startup teams that want an inexpensive way to prototype parts before production.
  • Hobbyists & cosplayers making props, brackets, and custom pieces.
  • Engineers & tinkerers who want to experiment with rapid prototyping tools.

Why Use a Makerspace Instead of Outsourcing?

  • Learn how to prepare, slice, and monitor your own 3D prints.
  • Print multiple iterations without paying a per-part service fee.
  • Work alongside other makers using the 3D printing lab, industrial laser cutter, and other tools.
  • Combine 3D printed parts with woodworking, metal shop, and electronics areas.
  • Access the space evenings and weekends as a member, not just during business hours.

How 3D Printing Works at Kalamazoo Makerspace

  1. Schedule a tour. Visit the space, see the 3D printers, and ask questions about your project.
  2. Become a member. Choose a membership option that fits how often you want to print.
  3. Complete orientation. Get familiar with basic 3D printer operation and safety.
  4. Prepare your file. Use slicing software to set layer height, infill, and supports with help from experienced members.
  5. Print, iterate, and improve. Run test pieces, adjust, and reprint as needed for your prototype or project.

Safe from the Rain – Playing with Cooling & Stringing

Safe from the Rain by 3DPrintBunny

Safe from the Rain by 3DPrintBunny is a clever model that really shows off the powerful cooling systems on modern Bambu Lab 3D printers.

This print intentionally uses stringing and bridging to create thin lines in the air that look like sheets of rain, while the character stays safely tucked under the umbrella.

Layers String Art – Creative Use of Stringing

Layers stringing art by 3DPrintBunny

On the theme of stringing, this Layers string art model by 3DPrintBunny has also gone viral recently.

Again, it makes smart use of cooling and controlled stringing to create intricate patterns in mid-air. It has us wondering how far we could push non-planar stringing here at the makerspace to create even more wild 3D printed art.

The MiniSkidi – RC Controlled Mini SkidSteer

The MiniSkidi RC mini SkidSteer by Professorboots

The MiniSkidi is an RC-controlled mini skid steer that lets you build a tiny construction site on your desk.

Created by Professorboots, it uses common electronics, clever programming, and a lot of 3D printed parts. The full instructions and files are available on Instructables so you can build the whole project yourself.

Mini Warehouse – The Perfect Desk Companion

Mini Warehouse 3D printed storage by Wim V

This Mini Warehouse by Wim V pairs perfectly with your new skid steer.

It is a fun, functional model that stores AA batteries and office supplies in style. Every home office could use one of these miniature warehouses—download the files and start adding it to your own 3D printed project collection.

Ready to Get Your Part 3D Printed?

Most people start by visiting our dedicated 3D Printing Lab page to see detailed equipment info, then choose a membership.

View 3D Printing Lab Details View Membership Options Schedule a Tour

3D Printing Service FAQ

Do you offer a traditional "drop off and pick up" 3D printing service?

We are primarily a DIY makerspace, not a commercial print shop. Instead of paying someone else to run the job, you become a member and learn to use the 3D printers yourself with help from our community.

Can startups and businesses prototype parts here?

Yes. Many members use the makerspace for startup prototyping in Kalamazoo, combining 3D printing with our laser shop, metal shop, and electronics tools to iterate on products quickly.

Is this a good option for students?

Absolutely. Our space functions as an informal student makerspace in Kalamazoo, MI, especially for students who don't have access to a campus lab or who want to work on personal projects outside of school.

How much does 3D printing cost?

Costs depend on your membership level and the materials used. Visit our pricing page for up-to-date membership details, then talk with volunteers about filament options and guidelines.

Can I combine 3D printing with other tools?

Yes. Many projects combine 3D printed parts with laser-cut panels, wood shop pieces, and metal shop brackets. Our goal is to be a complete community workshop where tools work together.