3D printing is still a dream that was popularized by early Star Trek episodes. The replicator was something that could create objects on the fly and that is what is being attempted today.
One of my favorite sites to see some really cool inventions that are rolling out is KickStarter. There often some really interesting gadgets that appear (and some really stupid ones too).
Check out these 3D Printer projects.
Printrbot: Your First 3D Printer
______
_______