3D Printer: 3D Printing 101

3D printing is an additive manufacturing process to quickly make prototypes and finished products.

In this class, you’ll learn how to print a model on a 3D Printer. This includes software used to prepare your model for printing, 3D printer filament types and strategies to insure a successful final product.

By the end of the class, you will know how to choose appropriate models, install and configure printing software and print a design.

From a recent attendee: "This 3 hour introductory 3D printing class was very comprehensive and well-structured. Despite the limited timeframe, the instructor, Samir, managed to cover all the essential fundamentals, making the complex world of 3D printing feel accessible and practical.I walked away with a wealth of useful tips and the confidence to start my own projects; I highly recommend this course for any beginner looking for a solid foundation".

Material fee: included

Please bring your laptop to use for this class.

Limited to 4 students

Note: In this class we don’t cover creating 3D Designs. Please see our Fusion 360 Class to learn how to create 3D Models.

Instructor

Samir Parmar is an architectural designer using 3D printers extensively in his career.

Questions? Samir@chimeraarts.org

Class outline

1. Inspiration: ideas, software and online resources.
2. Choosing and working with filaments materials.
3. Setting up your model for printing.
4. Operating a 3D printer.
5. Finishing your project with post-production methods.

Inspiration:

1. Design considerations: A brief overview of what can and can’t be printed on a 3D printer
2. Slicing software: a survey of freely available software used to prepare models for 3D printing
3. File formats and conversions
4. Layer height, Vertical shells and Infill types
5. Adding brims, rafts and supports

Choosing and working with filament types

1. PLA
2. PETG
3. TPU
4. Wood
5. Nylon
6. Metal

Preparing your model for printing

1. Creating and sending your G-code to the printer
2. Filament feed mechanisms
3. Bed leveling and temperature
4. First layer adhesion
5. Print removal and clean up

Finishing your 3D print

1. Sanding and finishing methods for prints
2. Gluing different filament materials
3. Paint options to make your print look like other materials

Activities

1. Finding models to 3D print
2. Install and configure 3D slicing software on your computer
3. Printing a 3D model on an FDM printer with your computer
4. Applying a finish to your print (optional)

Materials

Please bring your laptop to use for this class.

Cancellation Policy: Attendees must register for classes or request cancellations/refunds 72 hours in advance. (Some classes may require more time.) Eventbrite fees will be charged to the attendee. No walk-ins.

• Ages 8-15 are permitted to pay for and attend select classes with the direct supervision of a parent/legal guardian or authorized adult, who may attend in a supervisory role at no cost to the guardian. The department manager and instructor’s approval is also required.
  
• Ages 16-17 may take some classes independently, while some individuals or classes may require the direct supervision of a parent/legal guardian or authorized adult. The department manager’s and instructor’s approval is also required.