1. Filament – The Printer’s Ink
3D printers use special plastic called filament, which comes in rolls. The most common types are:
- PLA – Easy to use and great for beginners.
- ABS – Stronger but needs more heat.
- TPU – A rubbery filament for flexible prints.
2. Designing the Model
Before printing, we need a 3D model – a file in STL format that printer can print. This can be:
- Downloaded from websites like Thingiverse, Printalbes etc.
- or your own designs can be made using 3D modeling software (like Tinkercad or Blender, etc).
3. Slicing the Model
Since 3D printers build objects layer by layer, we need to slice the model into thin layers. Instruction that 3D printer can understand.
- A slicer program usually comes with your printer does this.
- It converts the design into G-code, a language that tells the printer how to move.
4. Preparing the Printer
- Set up the printer
- Load the filament into the printer’s hot end, where it will be melted.
- Load the sliced file into the printer
5. Printing the Object
- The printer’s nozzle heats up and melts the filament.
- The printer “draws” a layer of melted plastic, moves up a layer and repeats.
- A cooling fan helps the layers harden quickly.
6. Finishing or Post-Processing the Print
- Once the print is done, wait for it to cool and carefully remove it from the bed.
- You might need to cut off the support or smooth rough edges with sandpaper.
- You may want to paint your prints
And that’s it!
Pick your next step: