From One Printer to a Thriving Enterprise: How 14-Year-Old Joshua Turned Setbacks into a 3D Printing Success Story
By Josh Bell, Charitable and Schools Correspondent
What began as a single 3D printer on September 3rd, 2023, has now grown into a full-fledged creative business for young entrepreneur Joshua of JD3DP.
With an inspiring journey rooted in resilience and innovation, Joshua now operates seven cutting-edge 3D printers, with nine machines in total, and is already planning to expand his fleet to meet growing demand.
His business is not only keeping up with replacing sold stock but also flourishing through custom 3D printed designs and bespoke orders.
Joshua’s talents don't stop at 3D printing—he has also added a top-of-the-line laser engraver to his workshop. With it, he produces a wide variety of custom engraved items including:
- Chopping boards & serving trays
- Wooden and slate coasters (customisable with photos & text)
- Pens, keyrings, bottle openers
- Custom engraved wine glasses for trade orders
- And much more
Joshua is constantly researching new materials and products to expand his offerings, and he always welcomes custom design and engraving requests.
What makes Joshua’s journey even more remarkable is his backstory: forced out of school at just 9 years old, his mother, Sonia, took on the responsibility of home educating him due to a lack of adequate educational support and funding.
Against all odds, Joshua has now become self-employed, independently running and maintaining his business—designing, printing, engraving, and even repairing his own equipment.
To further support his growing brand and give back to the community, the family launched the Mead Vale Market—a local initiative that not only offers Joshua another outlet to sell his products but also supports the Donate For Defib W-s-M Project, a charitable cause focused on raising funds for life-saving defibrillators in Weston-super-Mare.
Joshua’s story is a shining example of how passion, resilience, and support can turn challenges into opportunities.
With each design, print, and engraved item, he’s not only building a business but also a powerful legacy of perseverance.
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