3-D Printing: Boom or Bubble?

The annual South By Southwest Interactive conference is, if nothing else, an explosion of big ideas. Yet, this year, nothing proved to be so big, or so crazy, as printing clothes.

Seriously.

In one panel discussion, Mary Huang, co-founder of 3-D printed design house Continuum Fashion, expounded on the possibilities unleashed when consumers are granted control over the process. "If you give people the opportunity to be creative, they will surpass your expectations," Huang said.

If she's right, it would be great news for 3D Systems and Stratasys , both of which are working to bring down prices and put 3-D printing into the hands of more businesses like Continuum Fashion.

What does the endgame look like? Is 3-D printed fashion destined to put garment districts out of business? In this interview with The Motley Fool's Alison Southwick, Tim Beyers of Motley Fool Rule Breakers and Motley Fool Supernova says there's promise to the idea, though it may be too early to go all-in. Please watch, and then leave a comment to let us know what you think.

3D Systems is at the leading edge of a disruptive technological revolution, with the broadest portfolio of 3-D printers in the industry. However, despite years of earnings growth, 3D Systems' share price has risen even faster, and today the company sports a dizzying valuation. To help investors decide whether the future of additive manufacturing is bright enough to justify the lofty price tag on the company's shares, The Motley Fool has compiled a premium research report on whether 3D Systems is a buy right now. In our report, we take a close look at 3D Systems' opportunities, risks, and critical factors for growth. You'll also find reasons to buy or sell the stock today. To start reading, simply click here now for instant access.

The article 3-D Printing: Boom or Bubble? originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Tim Beyers is a member of the Motley Fool Rule Breakers stock-picking team and the Motley Fool Supernova Odyssey I mission. He didn't own shares in any of the companies mentioned in this article at the time of publication. Check out Tim's web home and portfolio holdings or connect with him on Google+, Tumblr, or Twitter, where he goes by @milehighfool. You can also get his insights delivered directly to your RSS reader.The Fool owns shares of and has created a covered strangle position on 3D Systems. Motley Fool newsletter services have recommended buying shares of 3D Systems and Stratasys. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days.

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