World's first 3D printing pen with cool ink is kid-friendly

One of the initial problems with 3D printing pens has been that the devices typically use melting plastic as its key ingredient. This poses a problem for children in particular in that they have to be quite careful when using the pen while making their creations. While 3D pen filament won't typically burn the user after it leaves the tip, it does make it less likely that children will use the devices.

A company called CreoPop proposes to avoid this problem by using filament that cures under UV light rather than by cooling. This technology has been used in several 3D printers in the past, and the company has adapted it to be used in a 3D pen. The device is expected to be shipped in June 2015.

This development - in particular the fact that the technology is already on the market - may be of great interest to buyers looking to differentiate their offerings. Marketing the pen to a younger audience and their parents as a safer alternative could reap significant rewards when attempting to build a brand around a 3D pen or 3D printing suite. Combining this with a set of plans aimed at children - CreoPop calls its offering a "children's playbook" - has the potential to jumpstart a brand in this emerging category.

See a comparison table of selected 3D pen suppliers on GlobalSources.com