3D Printing
Estimate Print Times with Cura
If you’re wondering if your print will finish within 3 hours, use Cura to help you estimate and plan! You can load your file in and check the time to help you iterate on your design before you come in.
3D Printing Do’s and Don’t’s for BuildIT
For an object to be 3D print well, it is best if it is designed specifically for 3D printing. 3D models can be created as very intricate shapes, but it is important to keep in mind the limitations of the machines that will be used to realize the object, and design with those limitations in […]
3D Models
Save your model as an .stl file!SolidworksSoftware specifically used by the School of EngineeringTinkercadEasy-to-use software for creating a CAD model for 3D printing. Free trial version requires an account.SketchUp (Google)Easy-to-use software for creating a CAD model for 3D printing. Download for free but requires registration.Autodesk 123D appsFree apps to capture and create 3D models.AutoCADFree software […]
Supports
Extruder – This is a part of a 3D printer. This is the part that heats up to nearly melt the material so that the material can be worked with. A motor pushes the material through the hot part and out of a nozzle at the end. Filament – This is the material that is […]
Materials for 3D Printing
Extruder – This is a part of a 3D printer. This is the part that heats up to nearly melt the material so that the material can be worked with. A motor pushes the material through the hot part and out of a nozzle at the end. Hot End – This is a part of […]
Rafts
Extruder – This is a part of a 3D printer. This is the part that heats up to nearly melt the material so that the material can be worked with. A motor pushes the material through the hot part and out of a nozzle at the end. Filament – This is the material that is […]
Layer Height
For Fused Deposition Modeling, or FDM, printers like the ones in build IT, one variable that affects the final quality of a 3D print is the layer height. Typical layer heights are between 0.1 millimeters and 0.5 millimeters. The surface quality of the finished part is proportional to how small the layer height is; smaller […]
Coloring 3D Printed Objects
Adding Color A comparison of coloring 3D printed objects Natural PLA Red PLA White PLA How to color what’s 3D printed in build IT Acrylic Paint Painted with Sax True Flow acrylic paint in Fire Red Pro: Easy to apply Con: Paint coverage How many coats is applied? Two coats of acrylic paint. Acrylic Paint […]
Examples
Just Keep Patching
We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you here at build IT! This series is dedicated to showcasing just some of the cool things you can make here. Like what you see in this video? You can do it too! Just make sure you come by for an orientation and a Brother SE600 […]