📰 This Week in 3D Printing

🚀 Industry Headlines

• Global 3D Printing Market Reaches $24.2 BillionAccording to Wohlers Associates, the additive manufacturing market hit $24.2B in 2025, with continued double-digit growth expected. The industry is maturing from prototyping into full-scale production.
• 1 Million+ Entry-Level Printers Sold in Q1 2025Chinese manufacturers (Creality, Bambu Lab, Elegoo) dominate 95% of entry-level shipments. Consumer interest peaks in Q1 and Q3, creating seasonal opportunities for accessories sellers.
• MyMiniFactory Acquires ThingiverseThe 3D model marketplace consolidation continues, with MyMiniFactory now owning 100% of Thingiverse, affecting 8M+ users and changing the landscape for digital file distribution.
• Flashforge Launches Full-Color Desktop Printer at £2,400First affordable full-color high-resolution desktop 3D printer using Xaar printhead technology, opening new possibilities for multi-color accessory production.
• Large-Format AM Dominates at Formnext 2025Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and large-format printing stood out as defining trends, especially for metal applications in automotive and aerospace.

🔬 Technology & Materials

• EPFL Scientists Transform Hydrogels into Tough Metals/CeramicsNew process allows multiple infusions of metal salts forming dense, high-strength structures without porosity issues of earlier methods.
• Researchers Develop 3D Printed Soft Optical Sensor (SOLen)New sensor guides light with internal lens for mechanosensing, opening applications in wearable tech and smart accessories.
• Metal-Textile Hybrid InnovationResearchers created innovative metal-textile hybrids using 3D printing, potentially revolutionizing wearable accessories and functional fashion.

🏢 Business Moves

• Aectual Partners with Lululemon3D-printed ceiling and storefront systems being installed across key stores worldwide, showing retail adoption of AM for interior design.
• ATO Technology Expands US Presence via DynamismPartnership announced at RAPID + TCT, signaling continued growth in advanced manufacturing technology distribution.
• Prusa Day 2025 HighlightsAM is no longer limited to prototyping—increasingly adopted for real-world, high-volume consumer products.

💡 Business Opportunities

📊 Market Snapshot