I'm a strong believer that 3D printers will become standard home equipment just as e.g. microwaves did. Not for digital purchases of things that you are then supposed to print yourself (“you wouldn’t download a car”) but for convenience and control over how you design the things you need. You just bought a new vacuum and need an adaptor to get to tight spaces? 3D print it. A wall mount for a guitar? 2 hours and it’s done, exactly as you wanted. Once CAD/3D modeling becomes more accessible, a 3D printer will become a standard part of every DIY semi-enthusiast.
It also allows you to iterate quickly. Getting tolerances and fit right is a major pain especially when moving parts are involved and a 3D printer allows you to make several iterations in a relatively short time span. This allowed me to actually experiment with what works and what does not, and tinker with the model to the point where I was happy with it. I cannot imagine doing the same thing any other way (maybe CNC would work).
But, most importantly for tinkerers like me, there is virtually no upfront cost. The holders are made to order, I don’t need to order 100s of parts up-front (apart from a couple of small pieces, like magnets) and it costs me very little in terms of investment in material. This is my hobby, not a business I want to get rich from, and I want it to stay that way.
Now, let’s talk about the obvious thing. 3D-printed parts will never be as nice as molded or milled ones. Layers will always be visible and you will see visual imperfections on the parts, that’s just the way it is. On the other hand, printed parts can be tough (and the Lobster Holder certainly is) and may last years if made well. Also, additive manufacturing allows me to make some design choices that would not actually be possible with the classic molding process, which is simply awesome.
As I mentioned - I make these at home, by hand. Every order is printed on my Prusa printer, assembled and tested by me, and I want it to stay that way. I may consider offering a “premium” Lobster Holder made of aluminum, molded or printed on an SLS printer, but not if I’m not sure there is actually demand for it. One of the goals I committed to is affordability, and the SLA printing process allows just that.