At Steel Goat Marketplace
We caught up with the maker behind Papa Bear Printz, the go-to booth for 3D-printed art, dragons, keychains, and filament supplies. What began as a hobby quickly evolved into a passion-fueled business. Here’s the story behind the bear.
🐻 The Maker Behind the Prints
So tell us—what sparked the idea behind Papa Bear Printz?
After being laid off from Argo AI, I needed to find a way to generate income. I’d always loved tinkering and creating, and 3D printing offered an incredible outlet for both creativity and entrepreneurship. It started as a necessity but quickly became a passion project.
Was 3D printing something you were already into, or did that come after the idea for the business?
It began as a hobby. I experimented with different machines and materials, and as I grew more skilled, I realized the potential to turn it into a business. I started taking requests through Facebook and building inventory, which eventually led to selling at markets and forming partnerships.
And what about the name—why “Papa Bear Printz”? There’s gotta be a story there?
The name “Papa Bear” is a nickname I’ve been given over the years because of my similarities to a bear—fun, charismatic, and laid-back, but also fiercely protective of my cubs, whether that’s my family or the things I care about. The “Printz” part is spelled with a “z” as a nod to our Pittsburgh roots, giving it a local flair while tying it all together. It’s a name that reflects both my personality and the values of the business.
🖨️ About the Business
Let’s talk products. What kinds of 3D art do you specialize in?
We specialize in articulating dragon toys, phone stands, and keychains, as well as large-scale custom prints like the 3-foot Chucky bust. Our focus is on unique, high-quality designs that bring joy and value to customers.
Something that makes your booth really stand out is that you also sell 3D printer filament—what inspired you to branch out like that?
I saw a gap in the local market. While selling 3D-printed products is rewarding, I realized there was a growing need for accessible supplies for hobbyists and professionals. Offering filament and other essentials allows me to support the 3D printing community while diversifying my business.
What kinds of filament do you currently carry?
We carry PLA and PETG filaments, as these are the most versatile and widely used materials for both beginners and advanced users. PLA is beginner-friendly and great for detailed prints, while PETG offers durability and strength for more demanding projects.
Do you plan to expand the selection down the road?
Yes! We’re planning to expand our offerings to include a wider variety of filaments, including specialty options like silk, dual-color, and wood-infused PLA, as well as resins for SLA printers and even 3D printers themselves. This will allow us to better serve the growing needs of the 3D printing community.
👥 For the Customers
For those who don’t know—why is it such a big deal to have filament available locally?
Local availability saves time and shipping costs. 3D printing often requires trial and error, and waiting for supplies can halt progress on projects. By offering filament locally, I can help makers stay productive and inspired without unnecessary delays.
What are some things people might be surprised to learn they can create with 3D printing?
Many people think of 3D printing as just for toys or art, but it’s incredibly versatile. You can create functional parts like brackets, custom tools, home décor, cosplay props, and even educational models for classrooms. The possibilities are endless.
Do you offer support or guidance for people who are just getting started?
Definitely! I love helping beginners. Whether it’s advice on choosing the right filament, troubleshooting a print, or tips on post-processing, I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned. I also host “Lunch and Learn” events at Steel Goat Marketplace to teach the basics.
🐐 Steel Goat + Community
Speaking of Steel Goat—what’s it like being part of that community?
It’s the sense of community. Steel Goat is more than just a marketplace; it’s a hub for local creativity and entrepreneurship. I love connecting with customers and other vendors who share a passion for unique, handmade products.
If someone is curious about 3D printing, can they come talk to you and check out your work?
Absolutely! I encourage anyone curious about 3D printing to stop by. I’m always happy to chat, show off some of my prints, and even demo how the process works. It’s a great way to spark interest and share the magic of 3D printing.
What’s one of the coolest or most meaningful things you’ve printed recently?
Our latest project is a life-sized Stitch, which holds a very special place in our hearts. This piece is dedicated to our lost cub, Aryana, who embodied love, kindness, and creativity. Stitch represents family and the idea that “ohana means family,” which resonates deeply with us as we honor her memory. It’s not just a print—it’s a tribute to someone who inspired us and continues to be a part of our journey.
🔮 What’s Next?
For anyone who hasn’t visited yet—why should they stop by your booth at Steel Goat Marketplace?
My booth offers something for everyone—whether you’re a collector, a gamer, or a 3D printing enthusiast. You’ll find unique, high-quality products, helpful advice, and a welcoming atmosphere. Plus, I’m always working on something new, so there’s always a reason to stop by.
Anything exciting coming up that people should look out for?
We’re thrilled about two key initiatives this year. First, our Lunch and Learn sessions at Steel Goat Marketplace are a fantastic way for people to explore the world of 3D printing. These free monthly workshops provide a 30-minute introduction to the basics of 3D printing, followed by an open Q&A where attendees can ask questions and get hands-on insights. It’s a great opportunity for beginners and enthusiasts alike to learn and connect.
Second, we’re focusing on expanding our offerings to support the 3D printing community. We’ll be stocking a wider variety of high-quality filaments, resins for SLA printers, and even 3D printers themselves. Our goal is to provide everything hobbyists and professionals need to keep creating, all in one convenient place.
