Introduction to 3D Printing for Complete Beginners

Introduction to 3D Printing for Complete Beginners
New to 3D printing and not sure where to start? This class is designed for absolute beginners who want to learn how to bring their ideas to life with 3D printing! Whether you’re interested in creating fun projects or exploring a new hobby, this class will teach you the basics step by step.

In this course, you will learn:

• What 3D printing is and how it works (FDM printing)
• How to prepare a 3D model for printing using simple software
• Where to find 3D models online that you can print
• What can and can’t be printed on our 3D printers
• Basic rules for safely using the 3D printers
• How to fix common printing problems

The class includes 1 hour of instruction and 1 hour of hands-on time where you will get to print and troubleshoot with the 3D printers.

Important Note: If you are a current MakerspaceCT member and want to get certified to use the 3D printers on your own, please sign up for the separate "3D Printer Certification" class.

Materials Included: We provide PLA/PLA+ plastic filament in various colors, and the computers are set up with easy-to-use 3D printing software like UltiMaker Cura and PrusaSlicer. You are welcome to bring your own laptop, but for this class, please only bring PLA/PLA+ filament. We won’t be using other filament types (such as ABS or PETG) in this session.

All people are welcome in this class and an active effort will be made to be inclusive to all people. This class will not tolerate sexism, ableism, racism, homophobia, or transphobia. MakerspaceCT is for everyone.