I am a 3D digital modeller (mainly CAD, but some organic/Zbrush experience) who works in the industry. I am trying to gauge the interest level in 3D Modelling for hire, making custom bits and models for 3D printing. With the price of 3d high quality printing dropping (and medium quality places like Shapeways being already pretty cheap) it seems that it may be a lucrative side business. The basic idea is you'd contact me with an idea, I'd build the 3d model, and once you're happy with it, you'd pay me, and I'd send you the digital file, cleaned up and ready to print.
It seems to me the upside of such a service is "getting whatever custom bits I want" but the downside is "I have to pay for the model, and then pay again to get it printed."
Opinions?