We are the first 3D printing store in the UP of Michigan. This came about in a bit of a convoluted way. I (Tom) grew up in a ceramic studio (1970’s) as well as my mother, and grandmother having studios I ran one for several years. I was in field repair IT for about 15 years until I educated my self out of a rural IT position, as I was became qualified to run the departments than work in one. I was offered employment if I moved to Chicago or another large city, with my two little girls (3-4) we decided that was a total no go. So I drove semi for the next 12 years until back surgeries put me out of that.

During this time my wife (Love) was given a 3D pen for her birthday (thanks Bruce Jr). She made some really cool things, I thought it was cool as well but I like using molds/models and I started looking in to 3D printers.

So if you take a guy who has a deep foundation in real life modeling and heavy hardware IT experience, add in being used to 60-70 hour work weeks, you get the first 3D printing company in the UP.

I started in my living room and at my first show, I had just enough stuff to sort of fill a single table. It was a 2 day event I was skeptical of response but in the first day I was nearly wiped out! Went home with my wife kind of freaked out about what to do for the next day. Love told me to take the bucket next to the printer. You mean the bad prints? Told me they are my ‘seconds’ put a lower price on them and kids will buy little fidgets if they can afford them. Sold nearly all of that too. In the end I had enough left overs to fill an ice-cream pail and put the lid on.

Our first show was only a couple weeks before I got the news that my back was going to need another surgery and put me out of work. Its been a up hill battle but we have been blessed with a 23 year marriage and 2+1 wonderful daughters. My youngest helps at the shop most days.

We have moved 4 times so far in one year. Into bigger and better spaces hopefully this last place will be for a lot longer.

We are now up to 11 high speed printers including a conveyor belt unit for making huge items many feet long in one piece. Feel free to come in any time and see the machines in action. As soon as we get into the newest space we will be having several local artists showcasing their unique works. As well as opening a small coffee bar, featuring single-origin coffees from around the world, no fancy drinks just really great coffees at fabulously cheap prices.