Imagine technology in which you can create anything you want in the comfort of your home. This type of technology is called 3D printing.  It is already common for some businesses and is now becoming mainstreamed for the use by the public.

3D printing has taken great leaps and bounds over the past year, and several advancements in the technology have allowed for the machinery to be seen worldwide. Producers and businesses are looking to cash in by making objects from the printers such as designer clothing, bicycles, and sneakers.

“In the future I see 3D printing evolving to be able to print entire organs in order to make organ donation obsolete,” senior Arden Stayer said. “I want to be able to help create those organs and combine 3D printing with stem cell research in order to genetically engineer organs that could possibly cure diseases.”

Everyday people can buy personal 3D printing machines to use at home through several different companies including MakerBot, Stratasys, and 3D Systems. Consumers will be able to use these machines to make any object from a variety of materials such as wax, plastic, and several types of metals.

“I plan on buying a cheaper 3D printing machine so that I can get to know the technology and experiment with it before buying a higher end model,” junior Zach Seitz said.

However, the reaction to 3D printing in the headlines has been mixed. Stories range from prosthetics and human organs being created, to working firearms being produced by entrepreneurs. The unlimited possibilities of the system and what it can create have called governments to begin enacting laws to protect what can and what can’t be made by the average person.

“I’ve heard several different stories about entrepreneurs using these machines to make guns, and [I think] this should be regulated by law,” senior Anthony Lauer said, “although I am also very excited for all the immense possibilities that people will be able to use this technology for.”

Three-dimensional printing technology seems to be here to stay and will be revolutionizing through the next couple of years. The printing companies will continue to look for advancements in the technology which is sure to be one of the biggest markets in the future.