How to 3D Print Something: 4 Helpful Tips

The first high-speed printer was invented back in the 1950s. It wasn’t until 1976, however, that Hewlett-Packard developed the first inkjet printer.

Obviously, things have changed a lot since then. For one thing, we now have printers that are capable of printing three-dimensional objects.

What’s more, is that they’ve only become more and more popular over the past few years.

Thinking of getting one of these machines? Want to learn how to 3D print something? If so, you’re on the right page.

We’ll be going over some helpful tips below. Find out what they are by reading the rest of the post!

What Can You Do With a 3D Printer? 

3D printers are incredibly versatile in that you can use them to create almost anything. For example, you can use them to print pen holders, wall mounts, planters—even prosthetics!

Simply run the digital model through a program and it’ll automatically be converted into a set of instructions for your printer.

If you want, you can even create pieces out of metal—all you need is a metal 3D printer!

4 Tips on How to 3D Print Something 

3D printing can be fun but there’s also a bit of a learning curve. Here are a few tips to help you get started.

1. Calibrate Your 3D Printer 

It’s super important that you calibrate your 3D printer. If you don’t, the layers can easily get out of sync, which can result in weird shapes.

This is especially true if you’re printing an object with an overhang—you’ll need all the accuracy that you can get for something like that.

2. Break Complex Objects Into Smaller Parts 

Don’t try to print a complex object all in one go. Instead, break it into small components.

That way, there will be a lower chance of droopy overhangs or unaligned layers. Once everything has been printed, you can bond the parts with glue.

3. Learn How to Use a CAD Program

Sure, you can always download models from the internet but wouldn’t it be cool if you could create your own? To do that, you have to learn how to use a computer-aided design (CAD) program.

Basically, it’s a type of software that allows you to design and create your own digital models. It might be tricky to use at the beginning but it’ll be worth it in the end.

4. Try More Than One Type of Filament  

There are several types of filaments that you can use. Obviously, they’re not all the same.

For one thing, there are many materials that you can choose from. Some examples include ABS, PLA, PET, PVA, and PETT.

Use different ones for different projects—see which one you prefer. 

Using a 3D Printer 

And there you have it—four tips on how to 3D print something. Have fun with it; let’s see what you can come up with!

For more tech-related posts, check out the rest of our blog.