Shapeways Holdings, Inc. is a 3D printing service and marketplace that enables designers, creators, and businesses to turn their digital designs into physical products. The company was founded in 2007 by Peter Weijmarshausen, Marleen Vogelaar, and Robert Schouwenburg in Eindhoven, the Netherlands. They sought to make 3D printing accessible to a wider audience and provide a platform for individuals and businesses to bring their ideas to life through additive manufacturing.
Shapeways allows users to upload their 3D designs to its platform and offers a range of materials, including plastics, metals, and ceramics, to 3D print their products. The company's sophisticated printing technology and manufacturing capabilities enable the production of highly detailed and customized items, making it popular among designers and small businesses.
Over the years, Shapeways has expanded its services and now offers a marketplace where designers can sell their 3D-printed products to a global customer base. This marketplace model allows creators to monetize their designs and reach a broader audience without the need for large-scale manufacturing or distribution capabilities.
Shapeways has positioned itself as a leader in the 3D printing and additive manufacturing space, serving a diverse customer base that ranges from individual creators to established businesses. The platform's ease of use, vast material selection, and on-demand production capabilities have made it a go-to choice for anyone looking to turn their digital designs into tangible products using 3D printing technology.