“A lot of people have gotten ideas for new products and it’s very difficult for them to turn those ideas into prototypes which can then go into samples for products, Pieter Cilliers, Cape Craft and Design Institute project support coordinator told CCTV Africa.

Affordability and the ease of learning the operational aspects of 3D printers is increasing the popularity of housing them within design firms. According to the video report, costs for 3D printers in South Africa starts around $1,000. One 3D printing shop is aiding small enterprises across industries to capitalize on business through reliable product development.

“The 3D printing is a very quick — and actually neat — way for them to realize these physical products,” Cilliers added.