While other freshmen are just getting used to entering high school, Carson Franz is starting his own business.
Carson’s 3D Solutions began as a hobby-project but with a combination of a passion for the hobby and knowledge of running a business, Franz has quickly turned the business into a moneymaker.
Franz, a freshman at Normal West, is also a member of Wildcat Live and the golf team, as well.
To create his product, Franz uses a 3D printer to melt the plastic rolls and make them into a variety of options, such as battery holders and the pushroom holders that are used in the shop classes.
Franz describes himself as a “businessman” who likes to make money.
“I like making money and I like 3D printing. it’s fun to see 2D coming into 3D, and you see your ideas coming to life,” Franz commented.
To bring his models to life, Franz uses the software Tinkercad or Maker Online.
Although he does not have any set prices, he generally determines by the cost of the rolls and the size of the item the customer has ordered. It also depends on the color they want.
“Printing can be as low as ten minutes to days. My printer is pretty fast,” Franz commented on the speed of the printing process.
Although, Franz recently bought a PC, allowing him to handle more complex files and custom prints.
Carson has also faced some challenges, but he’s figured each one out.
“A piece [once] broke off into the nozzle, so I had to take a part the whole nozzle and fix it, so that took a few days to do,” Franz noted about a specific challenge he had.
In addition to the 3D printer business, Franz also runs a lawn mowing business in the summer, as well.
Franz is always open to taking new customers and finds ways to spread the business around.
“I do print ads in different classrooms around school, and I updated it recently to showcase what colors I have and what I can do more of,” he noted.
If you’re interested in supporting Franz’s business, send him an email or look him up!
And if you are considering pursuing your own business or passion, Franz sends you encouragement.
“I would go just try everything. Do what makes you happy. No idea is a bad idea…if you want to do that and you’re happy doing that, do it. There may be some things that you have to do to make that a reality, but you can make that a possibility,” he shared.
