In this inaugural episode of The Prototype, Patrick lays out multiple, real-world ways to turn your digital-fabrication hobby into an income stream—whether you can design from scratch or not. From flipping ready-made STL files to consulting on prototypes, you’ll get a buffet of ideas you can test this week.

🕒 Timestamps

• 00:00 Welcome & show purpose – why this podcast exists
• 01:30 Origin story – $150 Ender-3 → obsession unlocked
• 02:57 First Etsy win: retro RPG keychain that sparked Pine & Print
• 03:30 No-design strategy – buying commercial-use files on Etsy/Patreon
• 05:34 Expanding tool-set: 3-D printer → laser → CNC (debt-free approach)
• 06:50 Marketplaces rundown: Patreon, Thangs, Cults3D, Etsy digital
• 10:17 Service path – selling print time & prototyping for small businesses
• 12:18 Case study – custom ATV speaker surrounds client project
• 13:56 Education angle – teaching digital-fab skills locally or online
• 14:39 Content-creator route – YouTube & brand partnerships
• 16:58 Wrap-up & teaser for deeper dives in future episodes

💡 Episode Highlights

• Ready-Made Files = Fast Cash
  Buy commercial-license designs, crank out physical products, and list them on Etsy or at craft fairs—zero design experience required.
• Service Overhead Is Low
  Rent out your printers or laser time for prototypes; small firms happily pay for quick turnarounds and troubleshooting know-how.
• Teach What Seems Obvious
  Your “basic” slicer tips might be mind-blowing to someone who just unboxed their first machine—monetize that via workshops or online courses.
• Multiple Income Lanes Can Co-Exist
  Combine product sales, digital files, prototyping services, and content creation—or cherry-pick the lane that fits your goals.

🔗 Resources & Links

• Pine & Print Etsy Shop
• Design marketplaces: Etsy • Thangs • Cults3D
• Autodesk Fusion 360 (personal license)
• Adobe Illustrator
• Crafted With Machines on Instagram
• Crafted With Machines on YouTube

🚀 Action Challenge

1. Identify one pain point in your shop or daily life.
2. Find a commercial-use file on Etsy/Patreon that solves it (or design it yourself).
3. Make 3 units and list them for sale within 48 hours.
4. Tag #CWMPrototype so Patrick can shout you out next episode!

🗣️ Keep the Conversation Going

• Drop questions on Instagram or in the episode comments.
• Early-access & bonus content: Crafted With Machines Patreon

Thanks for tuning in—now go make those machines earn their keep!