Martha Stewart launches line of 3D-printable home products

LOS ANGELES (Variety.com) - Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia -- in a pact that seems aimed more at generating publicity than actual revenue -- announced an exclusive deal with 3D printer manufacturer MakerBot to jointly sell designs and materials for products that consumers can produce in their own homes.

The first Martha Stewart products for MakerBot's line of 3D printers are the Trellis Collection: a three-piece set that includes a coaster, napkin ring/place-card holder, and LED votive holder. Individual designs start at 99 cents and the full collection is available for $2.99.

To actually print the products, MaketBot users must buy a spool of filament in one of three proprietary colors designed by MSLO. That's priced at $25 for a half-pound spool and $65 for the two-pound package.

"We are thrilled to work with MakerBot to bring our signature color palette and designs to the world of 3D printing," Stewart, founder and said in a statement. "3D printing allows for cost-effective product design without compromising artisanal character."

It's an interesting idea, but today 3D printing is a relatively small industry. As of Dec. 31, 2013, MakerBot had sold about 40,550 units of its 3D printers since 2009, according to parent company Stratasys, which acquired MakerBot last year.

The initial Martha Stewart for MakerBot PLA Filament colors -- lemon drop, robin's egg and jadeite -- went on sale Nov. 17 at MakerBot Retail Stores in New York, Boston and Greenwich, Conn., as well as online.

New York-based MLSO is a media and merchandising company whose brands include Martha Stewart Living and Martha Stewart Weddings magazines; TV and video programming including the "Martha Stewart's Cooking School" and "Martha Bakes" series on PBS; and Martha Stewart-branded lifestyle products available through retailers including The Home Depot, Macy's, JCPenney, Staples and PetSmart.