You don't go to Shapeways as an alternative to Toys R Us. They serve the market of DIY enthusiasts, independent artists, people who need models for mechanical R

You don't go to Shapeways as an alternative to Toys R Us. They serve the market of DIY enthusiasts, independent artists, people who need models for mechanical R&D, etc. That $40 part can be used to check fit and proportion before going to a process like injection molding or as the basis for R&D. Shapeways, better than any other company in the space opens up these expensive machines to individuals at fair prices.