A 3D-printed Santa hat. (Photo: flickr.com/creative_tools)

Hrm: Staples, that place your office manager disappears to twice a week, has just announced its very own 3D printing service, in partnership with MCOR. Fast Company reports it'll be called "Easy 3D" (natch) and ought to launch in early 2013.

But before you dash out to try printing yourself some new shoes, you should know it will initially be limited Dutch and Belgian customers. Interestingly, the Netherlands is also home to competitor Shapeways' European outpost. No word when the service hits stateside.

We foresee a lot of plastic tchotchkes handed out at upcoming trade shows.