3D printer recommendations

[HondoMan]

Had a thought last weekend regarding a 3d printer.  Since then, been watching YouTube videos and trying to learn about 3d printing as I know FA about them.  Is this idea feasible?

I thought it nice when a customer arrives in me shop with, for example, a knife or a pen set and rather than leave these with me for weeks, I scan and print them to use for a custom sheath or case? The customer takes their item along with them.  It would seem that I could theoretically print patterns as well.  I generally use poster board, but the smaller pieces either get lost or tear and the larger pieces wear after time.  A plastic 3d printed pattern would last longer and it's additional weight would offer less chance of moving or sliding and hold the leather down as well, albeit a wee more than poster board.

I do worry that with a knife, the 3d printed blade would be to slim or flimsy to work with and essentially break whilst working with it for a proper fit into the leather.

Is this idea really doable or is this really as complicated as some of the videos I've watched indicate?  I am truly interested.

One other thing is all the printer upgrades that seem to be needed.  Seems one buys the printer, scanner, and programme, but the printer seems to warrant upgrades to make them better.  Is that true as well?

Thank you all in advance for the thoughts.

Cheers!

[dikman]

Are you talking about 3D scanning? if so it's certainly feasible but expensive. As for upgrades, it depends what you buy. If you buy a kit then the chances are that once you understand what you're doing you'll want to improve the printer as many of the kits will be functional but can be improved upon. Not necessary, but if you'r a kit builder you probably won't be able to help yourself!

[HondoMan]

On 9/2/2018 at 2:04 PM, dikman said:

Are you talking about 3D scanning? if so it's certainly feasible but expensive. As for upgrades, it depends what you buy. If you buy a kit then the chances are that once you understand what you're doing you'll want to improve the printer as many of the kits will be functional but can be improved upon. Not necessary, but if you'r a kit builder you probably won't be able to help yourself!

This seems like more effort than I was hoping.  I appreciate your insights.  Perhaps I'll wait a few years and revisit this idea.  Cheers!