Busting 7 Myths About 3D Printing with Real Facts

You've probably seen the Reddit threads, the YouTube “experts”, all parroting the same tired 3D printing myths. Some say 3D printing is expensive. Others call it dangerous. Some act like you can print a car in your garage by Friday.

3D printing is powerful tech, but if you’re working off bad info, you’ll waste time, money, and maybe even risk safety. In this post, we’re busting 7 of the most common myths with real 3D printing facts, and giving you the clarity you need before you start your next print.

1: “You Need to Be A Professional 3D Designer to Use a 3D Printer”

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This myth stops a lot of people before they even start, and it’s completely outdated.

Yes, designing your own models gives you creative freedom, but it’s not a requirement. Today, anyone can download free, high-quality files from sites like Printables, Thingiverse, and Cults3D. No CAD degree needed.

When you do want to try customizing or creating your own stuff, the software side isn’t as scary as it sounds. Tools like Tinkercad, Fusion 360, and Blender are beginner-friendly, with drag-and-drop features, step-by-step tutorials, and huge online communities ready to help.

Even better? Many 3D printer manufacturers now bundle in plug-and-play software that handles settings, calibration, and auto-slicing for you. That means you can go from box to bench without knowing the difference between STL and G-code.

Want to get into the design side? Start with our The Initial Guide to CAD Software for 3D Printing, it’ll walk you through the basics without overwhelming you.

2: “Is 3D Printing Expensive to Start?”

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Let’s kill this one right now: is it too expensive? Sure, it can be, if you're building an industrial lab in your basement.

But for most people? Not even close.

Now, one of the best 3D printing facts for everyone is that entry-level FDM printers are under $300, filament is affordable, and free design files are everywhere. You don’t need a huge setup to start prototyping, creating parts, or even launching a small side hustle.

What is expensive? Wasting money on bad machines, poor prints, and no clear plan.

3: “3D Printing Is Dangerous”

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There are dangers of 3D printing, but they’re not what people make them out to be.

No, your printer won’t explode. But yes, there are real safety considerations:

The truth? Most of these risks are easily managed with a little common sense and basic safety gear. You wouldn’t cook without knowing how to use the stove, so don’t print without learning how to run your setup responsibly.

4: “3D Printing Isn’t Profitable”

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If 3D printing wasn’t profitable, why are so many people doing it full-time now?

The truth is, it can be profitable, if you treat it like a business, not a hobby. That means:

If you're thinking of turning your printer into a money-maker, start here: How to make money by selling 3D printed products?

5: “3D Prints Are Weak and Break Easily”

(source: fuse3d)

This 3D printing myth used to be true… back in 2012. But not in 2025.

Today’s materials can handle impact, heat, stress, even load-bearing jobs. PETG, ABS, nylon, and carbon-fiber-infused filaments give you serious strength, and that’s before you get into advanced slicing techniques.

Your prints are only as weak as your settings. Want strength? Choose the right material, optimize orientation, and stop using 15% infill on functional parts.

6: “Anyone Can Just Hit ‘Print’ and Get Results”

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People think 3D printing is like regular printing. Press a button, and a perfect part appears.

In reality? Bad design, wrong supports, warped prints, failed adhesion… it's a whole world of tiny disasters if you're winging it.

3D printing isn’t hard, but it’s not instant either. You need design sense, proper slicing, correct temps, material knowledge, and patience.

That’s exactly why Online 3D Printing Instant Quote - JLC3DP like ours exist, to help you skip the learning curve and get consistent results from day one.

7: “You Can Make Anything You Want”

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There are limits based on material, printer size, orientation, overhangs, layer adhesion, and good old physics. You can’t just throw a complex design into a slicer and expect it to work perfectly, especially if it has unsupported bridges, microscopic details, or moving parts printed in place.

Some models will need tweaking, multiple supports, or splitting into multiple pieces. Some things just aren’t printable yet, and some ideas are better suited for CNC machinery, injection molding, or your sketchbook.

Can you make amazing, functional, custom things? Absolutely. Just don’t expect to defy thermodynamics on your first try.

Stop Believing in 3D Printing Myths

Myths like “it’s too expensive,” “it’s only for engineers,” or “you can print anything” only hold people back. The truth is, with the right mindset, tools, and a little help, 3D printing is more accessible, affordable, and practical than ever.

If you're ready to explore how 3D printing can enhance your projects, we’re here to help. Let us handle your next project, check out our 3D printing services, get a free quote and see how we bring life to CAD files.