From creating trinkets to entire towns, 3-D printing is reaching new levels.

“3-D printing a pretty wide range of scales, from very tiny objects, a couple microns, up to whole houses,” Dr. Jack Koch, an Assistant Research Professor at LSU said. “It covers a variety of sizes but also covers a variety of uses.”

Companies like non-profit “Make Good NOLA”, create devices using 3-D printings to support individuals with special disabilities.

“We design and 3-D print all of our materials so that it’s much cheaper, it’s much more efficient to create,” James Robert III, the Chief Print Technologist at Make Good NOLA said. “And it can be customized specifically to the individual we are looking at.”

Their many 3-D printed devices including their hand prosthetic and toddler mobility trainer has helped people regain their independence

“Now to be sitting here and knowing that I have helped someone walk again,” Robert said. “I’ve given someone the opportunity to walk their dog again and just to make peoples’ lives a little bit easier”

3-D printing these devices not only reduces manufacturing time, but it also leaves a smaller dent in your wallet.

“Using 3-D printing technology to make things much cheaper, much more efficient, and much more durable than what is currently available through occupation therapy, physical therapy, and prosthetist,” Robert said.

Print by print, Make Good NOLA is one of many companies helping patients regain their confidence.