From Digital to Real

I've been learning a lot about what it takes to create 3D printable objects. I've wanted to do something like it when I first learned of the process years ago, but it's always been too expensive to delve into. That is until now. Before that I dabbled into 2D prints. Posters and tee-shirts and the like. While I cannot offer 3D printed (or resin cast) models, I have been getting a number of people asking about them. And I'm happy to offer digital files to people who have access to 3D printers either at work, school, or using an online service. 

The problem seems to be that it's inaccessible for a lot of people because having me create single, custom pieces can be expensive. It takes me a lot of time to build 3D models and I want to be compensated for my time and talents. And I understand the reluctance to buy in. I don't want to price myself out of reach of a lot of people who'd like to utilize my talents at the same time I don't want to feel that I'm cheating myself out of due pay.

What I'd like to do is create a line of 3D models that I can sell to more people rather than having a limited run for just those people who hire me for a job. Instead of paying something like $200+ for a unique custom, (which I will gladly do!). I'd also like to be able to sell the digital files to other people for say...$10 to $20? That way they can print out as many copies as they like on an individual basis. Or license my work for larger scale productions.

"Buy a generic tank for $10! Or order a unique Just-For-You model at a premium price. Inquire within!" Basically I want the $10 Sketch Commission option that a lot of people on art sites have to give them a little extra income.

There are a few issues of course. I don't know what people who visit my page would like. I don't feel like I can just build a bunch of stuff and hope someone will buy. Plus what's usually popular falls under strict copyrights and breaking that could get me into legal and financial trouble. Another problem is one that is inherent to ALL digital files. Once it's out there on the wild web, you lose control of distribution. It's the main reason that people shouldn't find my stuff on Turbo Squid or other sites.

Military aircraft and vehicle models are a safe area, but would anyone want to buy them?

Hmm...Maybe I do have a $10 Sketch offer after all! Ask for a custom render of a model that I've already built and I'll set it up, render it out and send the image. Still, I'd like to be able to offer 3D printable models for those that want them.