I think it would be a great idea to add a system for paid models directly on MakerWorld. Something like separate categories or labels such as:
Normal Models
Exclusive Models
Paid Models
The idea would be that users could easily see paid models either directly on a creator’s profile or through a filtered category. These models could be purchased as a one-time purchase, without any commercial license, only for personal printing.
It would also be great if users could pay for these models either with MakerWorld points or directly with cash. This would make the system more flexible, because some users may prefer using points they already earned on the platform, while others may simply want to buy the model directly.
For example, if someone wants to print a specific exclusive or paid model for themselves, they could simply buy the model once and download it. A similar system already works on platforms like Cults3D and other 3D model marketplaces.
I believe many users would welcome this feature on MakerWorld as well. It would also support creators more directly and give them a reason to keep their paid models on MakerWorld instead of uploading and selling them across many different platforms.
wyt ?
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We can’t have any system that allows users to send points to each other. Right now you can get 150 points just from creating an account and doing some basic stuff. Scammers would create a bunch of accounts, then send those “starter points” to a single account that has models for sale.
It would be nice to have the ability to sell models on Maker World, but I think they would have implemented that already if they had intentions of doing so.
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I have zero interest in paying for models. If my requirements dictate the need for a high end model (stop motion film and such), I’d interview and directly hire an artist. There is no shortage of sites that charge for models for those with an interest in paying for different hat hangers and cat poses. This one is an oasis for casual users like myself.
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Plenty of pay sites already. They don’t have anything I “just have to have”. I avoid them like the plague.
The problem is people can post a poorly designed model and once you pay for it you are out whatever they charge. It may not be possible to print it with any success.
I understand your point. Free models should definitely stay the main part of MakerWorld. I only mean an optional paid section for specific cases, for example car parts, rare replacement parts, or unique items that are difficult to find and difficult to model. In those cases, a one-time purchase could make sense for users and also support creators who spend a lot of time making these models.
That is a fair concern. Paid models should probably require verified print profiles, reviews, user photos, ratings, and maybe refund rules. MakerWorld already has a strong print profile system, so it could handle quality control better than many other platforms.
Good point, I understand what you mean. Maybe it would be smarter to leave points out of this completely and make paid models available only through normal cash payment.
That would probably be easier to control, safer against abuse, and more transparent for both users and creators.
I don’t believe we have a shortage of nice car part prints on MW. It’s one of the sites strengths - depth. If you can imagine the print, there’s more than a good chance it’s already represented on MW. It gives you the freedom to download it and customize it till your heart’s content. A beautiful site.
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It’s not quite what you’re looking for, but there is something similar.
Tier levels from crowdfunding:
It’s also important to note that if people are willing to pay, the quality must improve as well. While MakerWorld does have truly outstanding models and amazing artists, it can’t compete with paid content that truly represents the cutting edge of 3D printing.
We’re really talking about a whole different level here. I don’t see MakerWorld as a whole in that position. Keep in mind: Many professional artists who are considered among the top 10 in the world have completely left MakerWorld. Their models have long since disappeared from MakerWorld.
I don’t know if you’ve ever bought a 3D model? I have, quite a few times: from $10 to $100, just for the file or 3D model. It’s just on a whole different level. You expect professionalism like a top-10 artist - not a hobby project, which is certainly beautiful in its own right, but can’t hold a candle to that.
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I want to print and sell a model I like, but are there options like getting permission from the manufacturer or paying a licensing fee for that model?