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Etsy's New 3D Printing Policy (2025): The Complete Guide to the "Original Design" Rule
- Oded Kishik
- Jun 19
- 4 min read
Recently, the 3D printing community has been buzzing. An article on Tom's Hardware and viral YouTube videos, like the one from The Maker's Mashup, have sparked a widespread debate and caused real concern among many sellers. The headlines announced a "new policy" on Etsy that seemingly prohibits the sale of 3D printed products that are not the seller's "original design."
So, is this the end of selling with a commercial license on Etsy? In this post, we'll clear up the confusion.
Important Disclaimer Before We Begin
Before we dive in, it's important to clarify: We are not Etsy, and we cannot provide legal advice. The information and interpretations in this post are based on data we've gathered, community discussions, and our experience in the industry. Our goal is to present a logical picture of the situation to help you make informed decisions. However, every seller is ultimately responsible for their own shop and must act according to their own understanding and judgment of Etsy's policies.
What is Etsy's New "Original Design" Policy for 3D Printing?
At the heart of the discussion is a clause in Etsy's Creativity Standards policy, which states that products created with computerized tools (like a 3D printer) must be based on a "seller’s original design."
Naturally, this clause caused concern. After all, most of us sell products based on designs for which we've purchased a commercial license from talented designers. Does this mean our business model violates the platform's policy?
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Selling 3D Prints on Etsy Now
Can You Still Sell 3D Prints with a Commercial License on Etsy?
The short answer is yes. This policy is not as new as it's being presented, and similar guidelines have been on the platform for a while. Etsy's goal isn't to harm legitimate sellers but to improve the quality of the marketplace.
It is crucial for us to emphasize: As of today, we have not heard from a single seller in our HIVE community who has experienced a problem or had their shop shut down specifically for violating the "original design" clause. If you have experienced such a case, we would greatly appreciate it if you contact us. Your experience is vital for us to better understand the situation.
Why Are 3D Printing Shops on Etsy Being Shut Down?
Takedowns of listings almost always happen because of violations of other, clearer, and long-standing policies:
IP Infringement: Selling branded products (Disney, Marvel, etc.) without a license.
Using Non-Original Images: Reusing digital renders or stock photos that appear in hundreds of other shops.
Technical Listing Violations: For example, adding a logo or marketing text to the main product image.
Screenshot of Etsy’s response from the channel of Secret Forge
How to Add "Value" to 3D Prints to Comply with Etsy's Policy?
Here lies the real answer. Etsy doesn't expect you to be an engineer and a designer. Your "creation" as a seller is expressed in other ways:
The Art of Printing: Calibrating your printer, choosing high-quality materials, and ensuring a perfect final product.
Photography and Styling: Creating original and appealing photos that present the product in a unique light.
Service and Customization: Offering options to the customer (color, size, personalization) is a huge added value.
When you do all of these things, you are no longer just "printing someone else's design." You are a craftsperson providing a unique product and service.
Is Etsy's New Policy an Opportunity for 3D Print Sellers?
Absolutely, yes. Instead of panicking, let's see how Etsy's move can work in your favor:
Healthier Competition: Sellers looking for "easy money" who just upload stock photos will disappear. The serious, high-quality sellers—you—will remain.
Price Stability: Less flooding of identical products will allow you to price your items fairly, reflecting their quality.
Brand-Building Opportunity: This is the perfect incentive to invest in a unique look, build a memorable brand, and create a loyal customer base.
Etsy Seller Guide 3D Printing: How to Succeed Under the New 2025 Rules
So what do you do in practice? Here are a few clear, proven steps to ensure your shop not only survives but thrives:
Take Original Photos: This is the most important rule. Invest in taking high-quality, unique photos of your products. It's your most powerful tool for differentiation.
Offer Customization: Add variations for colors and sizes. This makes the product "custom-made" and places you squarely in the "creator" category.
Choose Products Wisely: Look for unique, less-saturated designs. Our Exclusive catalog in HIVE is an excellent example of where you can find products with low competition.
Diversify Your Income Streams: It's always smart not to put all your eggs in one basket. Alongside Etsy, build a Shopify store, approach the B2B market, and participate in local markets.
It’s not recommended to use stock photos when selling a common product.
Conclusion: What's Next?
The storm around Etsy's new policy is more smoke and mirrors than a real, dangerous change. Instead of being afraid, see this as a wake-up call to professionalize, invest, and turn your shop into a true brand.
At CUBEE, we are here to support you every step of the way. We will continue to provide you with amazing designs, tools for growth, and most importantly—a strong, supportive community.
Join the conversation on our Discord server and share your thoughts with us!
About Cubee: Empowering Your 3D Printing Business
At Cubee, we specialize in providing commercial licenses for 3D printing products with a special emphasis on home decor items. Our platform, Hive, is designed to help creators and entrepreneurs streamline their operations and maximize profitability. By offering a comprehensive catalog of high-demand, market-ready designs, Cubee enables you to launch and scale your Etsy shop efficiently.
Whether you're just starting or looking to take your 3D printing business to the next level, Cubee provides the tools and resources needed for success. Our commitment to quality and innovation ensures that your products stand out in the competitive Etsy marketplace, attracting buyers and driving sales.
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