If you’ve invested in a 3D printer, you already have the most important tool for a profitable side business. The challenge? Finding consistent clients, managing orders, and getting paid reliably. That’s where Cadly’s maker network changes everything.

The Opportunity: Why Prototype Manufacturing?

The product development industry has an insatiable demand for rapid prototyping. Entrepreneurs, startups, and inventors need physical prototypes to test their ideas, but they don’t want to invest in their own equipment or deal with the technical learning curve.

This creates a perfect opportunity for 3D printer owners. You have the equipment and skills. They have the projects and budgets. Cadly connects you both.

How Cadly’s Maker Network Works

Unlike traditional freelancing platforms where you chase clients and negotiate every detail, Cadly handles the hard parts so you can focus on what you do best: printing quality parts.

1. Get Matched with Projects

Upload your printer specifications, available materials, and production capacity. Cadly’s platform automatically matches you with prototype projects that fit your capabilities. No bidding wars, no cold pitching.

2. Print on Your Schedule

Choose projects that work with your availability. Whether you can dedicate 5 hours a week or 30, you control your workload. Accept a project, download the files, and print according to provided specifications.

3. Earn Per Print

Transparent pricing based on material usage, print time, and complexity. You know exactly what you’ll earn before accepting any project. Payments are processed through the platform with built-in protections.

4. Simple Quality & Shipping Guidelines

Cadly provides clear quality standards and connects you with discounted shipping options. Take photos of the finished print, package it according to guidelines, and ship. The creator receives their prototype, you receive payment.

What You Need to Get Started

Equipment Requirements

• Any FDM or resin 3D printer in working condition
• Basic materials (PLA, PETG, or resin, depending on your printer)
• A reliable scale for quality control
• Basic post-processing tools (if applicable)

You don’t need industrial equipment.

Skills & Knowledge

If you can successfully print from downloaded STL files and troubleshoot basic printing issues, you’re qualified. Cadly provides:

• Technical support for challenging prints
• Material recommendations for specific projects
• Quality standards documentation
• Packaging and shipping best practices

Time Commitment

It is what you make of it. Start small with one or two projects to learn the system. Many makers begin by dedicating just a few hours weekly. As you become comfortable, you can scale up based on demand and your availability.

Prototype Projects You Can Manufacture:

• Functional Prototypes: Early-stage product testing requires durable, dimensionally accurate parts. These projects typically pay more and come from startups validating their concepts.
• Visual Prototypes: Appearance models for pitch decks and initial customer feedback. These emphasize surface finish and aesthetics over mechanical function.
• Iterative Design Tests: Creators often need multiple versions printed as they refine their designs. These become regular, predictable work once you establish relationships through the platform.
• Custom Components: Specialized parts for unique applications, from electronics enclosures to ergonomic grips and custom mounting brackets.

Maximize Your Earnings as a Cadly Maker

Diversify Your Materials

Offering multiple material options (PLA, PETG, TPU, resin) increases your project matches. Start with one material and expand as demand justifies the investment.

Develop Specializations

Whether it’s mechanical assemblies, miniatures, or large-format prints, specialization helps you stand out and command premium rates for expert work.

Optimize Your Print Farm

As you build a consistent income, consider adding printers. Multiple machines printing overnight dramatically increases your earning potential without increasing active time.

Build Your Reputation

High-quality work and reliable communication lead to repeat projects. Cadly’s rating system helps you build credibility that attracts better projects.

Getting Started: Your First Week

Day 1-2: Create your maker profile, upload printer specifications, and complete the verification process.

Day 3-4: Review available projects and accept your first one. Download files and do a test print to familiarize yourself with the requirements.

Day 5-6: Complete your first prototype print, document it with photos, and prepare for shipping.

Day 7: Ship your first prototype and receive your first payment. Use feedback to improve your process for the next project.

Beyond Side Income: Scaling Your Operation

What starts as hobby monetization can grow into a serious business. Several Cadly makers have:

• Transitioned to full-time prototype manufacturing
• Opened dedicated workshop spaces
• Hired employees to run print farms
• Specialized in high-value niche markets

The platform provides the foundation. Your ambition determines how far you take it.

Common Questions from New Makers

What if a print fails? Cadly’s platform includes provisions for failed prints and technical issues. You’re not penalized for reasonable print failures, and support helps troubleshoot challenging projects.

How quickly do I get paid? Payment releases after the creator confirms receipt and quality. Most makers receive payment within 5-7 days of shipping.

Can I decline projects? Absolutely. You control which projects you accept based on your capabilities, schedule, and interest.

What about material costs? Project pricing includes material costs. You’re compensated for filament/resin usage plus your time and expertise.