The new Cube comes with proprietary heatless print pad that conserves power compared to other 3D printers. 3D Systems is committed to making consumer 3D printing affordable safe and sustainable.

ENGADGET: 3D Systems second-gen Cube 3D printer boasts faster prints and more materials

Weinberg points out that even before consumer 3D-printing became fashionable, gun enthusiasts were already making their own metal firearm components with computer controlled milling machines and posting their designs to sites like CNCguns.com.

FORBES: 'Wiki Weapon Project' Aims To Create A Gun Anyone Can 3D-Print At Home

In October, 3D-printing startup Shapeways opened its New York production facility in Long Island City, Queens, the biggest consumer-focused 3D printing factory in the world.

FORBES: Inside The World's Biggest Consumer 3D Printing Factory (Video)

Scientists continue to make major advances in 3D-printing technology for the medical community and for wider consumer applications.

ENGADGET: Inhabitat's Week in Green: flying electric car, 3D-printed livers and a two-story-tall bike