New to 3D Printing?
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From types of printers to how a print is made, here's everything you need to know to get started.
What is 3D printing?
3D printing is a method of turning digital designs into physical objects, by either replicating something that exists, or from ideas and imagination. 3D prints build object up layer by layer. We like to describe it as being a little bit like icing a cake, if you imagine filling the 3D printer with icing (except it’s really plastic), that is then piped onto the surface to create something amazing,
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3D prints can be used in endless amounts of applications, however they are most commonly used for hobby models, fixing household items (such as tables and chairs), creating prototypes, tools, teaching, art, and so much more.
What You Need to 3D Print:
A simple checklist that will help kickstart your 3D printing journey:
- A 3D Printer: This feels obvious, but there are so many options available and it is really important that you do your own research to find the right one for your specific needs and requirements. However, it will be either FDM or Resin, which we will explain below.
- A Digital File: This is a bit like a blueprint that tells your 3D printer what needs to be printed. There are various types of file that could be used, however it is usually either .STL or .OBJ.
- Slicing Software: Tells the printer how to print to file.
- Material: This is usually either filament (such as PLA or PETG), or Resin.
- A Well-Ventilated Space: This is often overlooked, however ensuring that printers (particularly resin ones) are located in an area with plenty of ventilation is crucial.
Types of 3D Printing:
FDM Printing (Filament)
- Prints using reels of filament that heated up and fed into the 3D printer gradually.
- Fairly cheap, depending on the type of filament used, and easy to maintain
- Great for large parts, tools and prototypes.
Resin Print
Resin is a very misunderstood type of 3D printing, and should only be used in well-ventilated areas by individuals willing to manage the mess created by this type of printing.
- Uses liquid resin cured by Ultraviolet light
- High-detail, with a smoother finish
- Messier and smellier, but stunning for models
What Can You Print?
The possibilities with 3D printing are generally only limited by your imagination, however, the most commonly made items include:
- Replacements Parts for around the home, such as chair feet, handles, shelving brackets, valves etc
- Toys and Miniatures (mostly amongst hobbyists, but also repairing child toys)
- Customised tools and workshop organisers, because you shouldn’t be limited by what is available on the market, if they don’t fit your needs
- Education models (molecules, maps etc)
- Art pieces, jewellery, gifts
Common Terms Made Simple
Term
What it means
PLA / PETG
.STL file
Slicer
Layer Height
Supports
Curing
Types of filament
A 3D model file
Software that prepares your file
How smooth / detailed a print is
Extra materials used during printing to keep it stable
Hardening resin prints with UV light
Want to learn more?
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