About MakerBot
About MakerBot
MakerBot Industries was founded in January 2009 by Bre Pettis, Adam Mayer, and Zach Smith in New York City, introducing its first 3D printer, the Cupcake CNC, that same year as an open-source DIY kit. The company grew rapidly, shipping thousands of printers within its first few years and launching Thingiverse, an online repository that became the largest community for sharing 3D printing files.
In June 2013, MakerBot was acquired by Stratasys in a $403 million deal, a transaction that shifted the company's product strategy away from its open-source roots toward closed-system desktop printers such as the Replicator line. Over the following decade, MakerBot released multiple generations of printers, including the METHOD and METHOD X systems aimed at more demanding prototyping applications.
In August 2022, MakerBot merged with longtime competitor Ultimaker to form UltiMaker, with the MakerBot name retained specifically for its Sketch line of education-focused 3D printers. ChatMRO indexes the MakerBot catalog so buyers can search by printer model, build volume, or material compatibility to find matching equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
Who founded MakerBot?
MakerBot was founded in January 2009 by Bre Pettis, Adam Mayer, and Zach Smith in New York City. Their first product, the Cupcake CNC, launched the company into the early desktop 3D printing market.
What is Thingiverse?
Thingiverse is MakerBot's online file repository where users can share and download free and paid 3D printing files. It grew into the largest online community for 3D printing content.
Is MakerBot still an independent company?
No, MakerBot was acquired by Stratasys in 2013 and later merged with Ultimaker in August 2022 to form UltiMaker. The MakerBot name continues today specifically for its Sketch line of education-focused printers.
What is the MakerBot Sketch line used for?
The MakerBot Sketch line is designed for education-focused 3D printing, giving schools and training programs an accessible entry point into desktop manufacturing. This product line carries the MakerBot brand forward under UltiMaker.
What other printer lines has MakerBot produced?
Between 2009 and 2019, MakerBot released seven generations of 3D printers, including the Replicator series and the later METHOD and METHOD X systems for more demanding prototyping work. These models reflected the company's shift from open-source kits to closed, professional-grade systems.