Here's a great example of a design entrepreneur with a 3D printer, and how they were able to parlay some good design ideas based on their hobbies into a successful Etsy shop.
The aptly-named TreeHugger Systems came up with this simple, 3D-printed $12 hook and bungie system ($12) to keep a backpack up off of the ground:
An even simpler 3D-printed $4 cord wrap:
A $12, lightweight 3D-printed utility knife and cord wrap that integrates an off-the-shelf cheapie compass:
And this simple Camping Gear Plate that goes for $9.60 and keeps things organized in your backpack:
The shop's sales are in the hundreds and the margins can't be huge, but the reviews are all solid. All in all, an inspiring example of a guy or gal with good ideas using digital fabrication to start a successful small business. Investigate your hobbies; this could be you!
I’m a lapsed industrial designer. I was born in NYC and figured I’d die there, but a few years ago I abandoned New York to live on a farm in the countryside with my wife. We have six dogs.
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Design Entrepreneurs, Take Note: Smart, Low-Cost 3D-Printed Objects to Make Camping Easier
Wouldn't a simple carabiner work as good or better than the plastic hook? If this rope gets loose the hook will tilt and down goes the bag. And it seems to require an entire tree instead of just a branch or pole..... Also it it kind of only has one function vs a carabiner serving many purposes.... Again, doesn't really seem "news" worthy core77.