Manhattan-based Tech-Designs, a three person company that builds prototypes of jewelry designs, operates seven 3D printers to print out models for jewelry makers throughout the United States.

The company, which has $400,000 in annual revenues, primarily uses printers produced by Solidscape.

In a Q &: A on Crain's New York Business, founder Carlos Zamora, points out that the machines have helped his business create models 5 times faster than the traditional method of hand carving the prototypes (wax masters). Also, while there are many jewelry companies outsourcing (design and printing) prototypes to China, the 3D printers allow him to be price-competitive and keep the work in the U.S.