In this inaugural episode of The Prototype, Patrick lays out multiple, real-world ways to turn your digital-fabrication hobby into an income stream—whether you can design from scratch or not. From flipping ready-made STL files to consulting on prototypes, you’ll get a buffet of ideas you can test this week.
🕒 Timestamps
- 00:00 Welcome & show purpose – why this podcast exists
- 01:30 Origin story – $150 Ender-3 → obsession unlocked
- 02:57 First Etsy win: retro RPG keychain that sparked Pine & Print
- 03:30 No-design strategy – buying commercial-use files on Etsy/Patreon
- 05:34 Expanding tool-set: 3-D printer → laser → CNC (debt-free approach)
- 06:50 Marketplaces rundown: Patreon, Thangs, Cults3D, Etsy digital
- 10:17 Service path – selling print time & prototyping for small businesses
- 12:18 Case study – custom ATV speaker surrounds client project
- 13:56 Education angle – teaching digital-fab skills locally or online
- 14:39 Content-creator route – YouTube & brand partnerships
- 16:58 Wrap-up & teaser for deeper dives in future episodes
💡 Episode Highlights
- Ready-Made Files = Fast Cash
Buy commercial-license designs, crank out physical products, and list them on Etsy or at craft fairs—zero design experience required. - Service Overhead Is Low
Rent out your printers or laser time for prototypes; small firms happily pay for quick turnarounds and troubleshooting know-how. - Teach What Seems Obvious
Your “basic” slicer tips might be mind-blowing to someone who just unboxed their first machine—monetize that via workshops or online courses. - Multiple Income Lanes Can Co-Exist
Combine product sales, digital files, prototyping services, and content creation—or cherry-pick the lane that fits your goals.
🔗 Resources & Links
🚀 Action Challenge
- Identify one pain point in your shop or daily life.
- Find a commercial-use file on Etsy/Patreon that solves it (or design it yourself).
- Make 3 units and list them for sale within 48 hours.
- Tag #CWMPrototype so Patrick can shout you out next episode!
🗣️ Keep the Conversation Going
Thanks for tuning in—now go make those machines earn their keep!
