Formlabs is about to launch Form Now, its own 3D printing service
Because never a dull day in the AM industry, Formlabs, a leader in accessible 3D printing solutions, is taking a bold step forward with the launch of Form Now, its new on-demand 3D printing service. The concept is simple but game-changing, especially since one of the largest AM hardware companies is behind it: instead of owning and maintaining a 3D printer, users can upload their design, select from a range of professional-grade materials, and have their parts printed and delivered directly to their doorstep. The service promises turnaround times as fast as two days, offering unprecedented speed and convenience.
The idea is to make 3D printing more accessible without upfront costs, so that when companies understand the value of 3D printed parts, they will invest in purchasing one (or many more) machines to use internally. It’s something fairly common for startup companies introducing new technologies but it’s not as common for an established hardware player to engage in offering service. And yet, it’s clearly the way to go forward, especially in a world where services often outweigh products, particularly as a means to facilitate scalability.
Form Now aims to make high-quality 3D printing available to anyone, whether hobbyists, designers, engineers, or businesses. Users upload their 3D models—either custom designs or files sourced from repositories like Thingiverse or Makerworld—then choose from a wide selection of materials, including durable plastics, flexible resins, and industrial-grade powders. Formlabs handles the printing using its advanced SLA and SLS technologies, ensuring precise, production-ready parts without the upfront cost of a machine.
Pricing is transparent and competitive, with sample parts starting around $20. Options include everyday items like knobs, gears, and bike components, as well as highly specialized parts for architecture, medical testing, or prototyping. Customers can monitor the status of their order in real time and receive updates as their parts are produced and shipped. The goal is to eliminate barriers and make additive manufacturing as easy as online shopping.
Beyond convenience, Form Now could shift how people approach product development and prototyping. Instead of investing in equipment, individuals and companies can quickly test designs, explore material properties, and iterate faster. This service also opens the door for those who may not have the expertise or resources to run a 3D printer themselves but still want professional results.
To encourage early adoption, Formlabs has launched a referral program where users can earn printing credits by inviting friends. Rewards scale from $10 for a single referral up to $500 for fifty referrals, making it clear the company is eager to grow its community around this new offering.
With Form Now, Formlabs is expanding beyond hardware and software into full-service manufacturing. By combining its proven technology with an easy-to-use online platform, the company is positioning itself not only as a leading 3D printer manufacturer but also as a go-to hub for on-demand custom manufacturing. For anyone curious about 3D printing but hesitant to buy a machine, this new service may be the perfect entry point. It remains to be seen how Formlabs’ existing professional AM service customers will react to having to compete with their supplier.
