Full Breakdown
12-Year-Old Twins Turn 3D-Printed Toys into a Small Business
7/15/2026, 12:00:32 PM
The Twins’ 3D-Printing Venture
Aaron Osirus, 12, launched a custom 3D-printing shop called A3D from his playroom after noticing classmates carrying fidget toys. He borrowed $600 from his parents to buy a high-tech printer that can switch colors automatically. As demand grew, his twin brother Alain joined the operation, handling design, marketing, cost tracking, and fulfillment. Together they produce items such as pass-through fidgets and articulated toys, with the most elaborate four-color kitten taking a full day to print and selling for $5.
Business Model and Earnings
The brothers set prices and delivery timelines per order, offering a 50-cent discount to repeat customers. After covering supplies and labor, they net roughly $200 in profit each month. Industry analysts cited by CBS News—PrintPal and SelfCAD—note that profit margins on 3D-printed products can reach 70 % to 90 % because raw materials are inexpensive. The twins further reduce costs by recruiting volunteer help from friends before considering paid staff.
Lessons and Aspirations (Verbatim Quotes)
- “One day at school I was just looking around, and then I saw that a lot of people had fidgets or toys… if all these fidgets are plastic, why can't I make them?” — Aaron Osirus, 12-year-old entrepreneur
- “I'm a designer for A3D. Sometimes I make the toys, and I also help with marketing… I check the time, how long it takes, the cost, fulfillment and everything.” — Alain Osirus, 12-year-old co-founder
- “When I see them play with my prints, I'm like, 'Oh yeah, that's really cool because I made it,'” — Aaron Osirus
- “My brother Aaron is actually very cool because we're able to spend time together… It's really special to own a business with your brother.” — Alain Osirus
Why It Matters
The Osirus twins’ success illustrates how affordable 3D-printing technology enables young entrepreneurs to create niche products with high margins. Their experience also highlights early lessons in investing, customer service, and entrepreneurship, which they hope will inspire other youths to pursue similar ventures.
