New to 3d printing, is it a good hobby?

[Roberts_Clif]

I have is an art teacher who had a 3d printer in class. I'm interested in getting a 3d printer to expand the range of DIY projects I'm able to do but I'm curious if it's a good hobby or more for a career.

3D Printing is an for Art, it is for Hobbyist and it is for the Career minded.

I started with the indention of using it for my DIY projects. Though found it useful for many others as well.

_{I 3D Printed this globe for my yard lights as the originals had deteriorated away.}
Globe 1.jpgGlobe 2.jpg

These PLA Globes have remained outside in the the weather for 2 years, the weather has ranged from -32 in 24 inches of snow to blistering 110 + degrees Fahrenheit in direct sunlight. This project alone saved me the price of a new yard light system and the time to install the new system. Though the Metal light holders now have have a lot of weather and bird droppings, the globes still look brand new. Looks like more water and a stiff brush is needed to clean them again though this is a project for the cooler days of fall.

The point is, I saved enough money on a single project to pay for the purchase of a 3D Printer for the DIY replacement globes.

Not to change the subject but I have tripled the number of " Trick or Treaters " in the last 2 years.
It was at the point where it felt like they would skip the house to get treats faster.

So How did I triple the number of " Trick or Treaters " I started 3D Printing 1/2 of their treats.
Between Airplanes, 3D Benchy's, Fidgets, Bat-O-Rains, Halloween stuff ect. It brought the kids back, and the cost was less than the price of the candy.