Is my experience growing up really that uncommon? Or is having a 3D printer just an expensive substitute for having friends that are in to making and fixing stuff?
In the same way that C++ is just a verbose substitute for having friends that are in to writing assembly.
Yes, 3D printing allows people to get interested in DIY by letting them make these parts without much effort. Most city slickers have no idea how to get into DIY.
For a long time, 3D printing will be useful as a "close-enough" alternative to more expensive models, parts, and replacements.
In the same way that C++ is just a verbose substitute for having friends that are in to writing assembly.