3D printing is a process by which material is joined or solidified layer by layer, under computer control to create a three dimensional object.

3D printing is used in rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing. Objects can be almost any shape or geometry and can be produced from a wide range of materials, including nylon, resin, stainless steel, gold, silver, glass, ceramic, gypsum, titanium, wax, wood and even human and animal cells.

3D printing allows the production of complex shapes using less material than traditional manufacturing methods. 3D printers come in many sizes, and printers have been used to print cars, houses, guns, bridges and furniture for demonstration purposes.

Every 3D print starts as a digital 3D design file, like a blueprint for a physical object. Car manufacturers, doctors, dentists, prosthetics, aircraft manufacturers, aerospace companies, prop makers, product designers, sculptors, architects, students, engineers, drone enthusiasts, jewellery designers, shoe manufacturers and consumer product makers are all using 3D printing in some way.