I am a high school FACS (home ec) teacher. My principle is interested in possibly investing in a 3 D printer for my high school interior design class. This is something that would be purchased with grant funding that is to support industry standards. ( something that would be used out in the work place by interior designers/design firms) Is this something that would be a valuable piece of equipment to use in my classroom? Why or Why not. I am not sold on its educational benefits(and I lack the knowledge of what the benefits would be). What quality of 3d printer would need to be purchased to replicate what is being used in the real working world? Any suggestions on a particular printer versus another. Cost will most certainly be of a concern, is the supplies needed to create the 3 D image expensive. Please be honest, there are many other educational items I need and I do not want to invest in something that would have little educational value in the long run. If from my research and advice from professionals can show me the benefit of the investment and maybe some suggestions of how I could use it in my classroom then I am all for the purchase. Any and all help/advice would be greatly appreciated and price estimates if you have any would be great too. Thanks Deb