There’s a very strong chance that you will have by now noticed the recent eruption of 3D printing. With news of 3D printed records and even 3D printed stem cells oozing out from all corners of the web. And rightly so, as there’s no doubt that developments in this technology will inevitably have a profound impact on numerous aspects of our daily lives.

But how many of us have stopped to think how this could benefit us personally?  Introducing ‘Makexyz’: an online storefront that connects people who need 3D printers with those who are lucky enough to have them (for a fee, of course).

Inspired by the same philosophy that drives the ‘Sharing Economy’, and by way the success of services such as ZipCar and Airbnb, ‘Makexyz’ lets you browse a list of available 3D printers in your area, alongside their price. If you find one you want to use, you can upload a file, choose your colour and material, and then choose if you want it shipped to you or if you will pick it up.