A Beginner’s Guide to 3D Printing: How It Works & Getting Started

Because we spend so much of our life eating, sleeping, and breathing all things 3D printing, we sometimes forget that not everyone has this deep knowledge, understanding, and even friendship with 3D printing. But it's good to take a step back sometimes and get back to basics, so this blog will hopefully give you a nice introduction to what is so well-known in some circles, but still a novelty in others.

What is 3D printing anyway? And how does it work?

3D printing is a manufacturing process that creates 3D objects layer by layer, starting with a digital file. It's sometimes called "additive manufacturing" because unlike traditional manufacturing, which often involves cutting away material, 3D printing builds objects by adding material precisely where it is needed. 

This process allows for more intricate designs than traditional manufacturing. For one thing, you can manipulate the inside of a solid object. It also is used extensively in rapid prototyping, as you can go from design to product in 24 hours or less. And it allows for custom production with minimal waste - think of keychains with your name on it, like you might find on Etsy. The basic design is the same, but the details change.

It typically starts with a 3D model made with computer-aided design (CAD) software. Of course, designs can also be downloaded from a library of designs. This model is sliced into thin layers using specialized software, generating instructions for the 3D printer. The printer then follows these instructions to build the object, layer by layer, using materials such as plastic, metal, resin, or even food.

Types of 3D Printers

There are many types of 3D printers, each suited for different applications. We won't go over them in depth, but enough to understand a little.

• Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): The most common type, ideal for beginners and hobbyists, uses thermoplastic filaments that are heated and extruded layer by layer.
• Stereolithography (SLA): Uses a laser to cure liquid resin into solid layers, providing high detail and smooth finishes.
• Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): Uses a laser to fuse powdered materials, meaning you can create durable, complex parts.
• Digital Light Processing (DLP): Similar to SLA but uses a projector screen to cure resin, allowing for faster printing.
• Metal 3D Printing: Involves advanced technologies like Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) or Electron Beam Melting (EBM) for industrial applications.

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Although it's interesting to know about these different types of 3D printing, when you're starting out, you're probably only thinking about FDM. This is the ‘classic’ 3D printer that is becoming more and more common in schools, libraries, and teenage bedrooms!

What materials can be used in 3D printing?

The versatility of 3D printing stems from the wide range of materials it supports. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Plastics: PLA, ABS, PETG, and nylon are common for FDM printers.
• Resins: Photopolymers for SLA and DLP printers, offering precision and smooth finishes.
• Metals: Titanium, aluminum, stainless steel, and more for industrial applications.
• Composites: Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics for added strength.
• Specialty Materials: Wood-filled filaments, food-safe materials, and biocompatible options for medical use.

Again, when you're starting out, you're likely to stay with PLA . You might venture into some other plastics that are suitable for FDM printers, though, if you're looking for specific properties: for example, if you're wanting a surface that's not as brittle as PLA you might use PETG instead.

How to get started with 3D printing as a beginner

Getting started is easier than you might think. Begin with these steps:

Choose the right 3D printer. Start with an FDM printer, as they are affordable and user-friendly. You might be able to find one you can use at a library near you, as many libraries now have makerspaces for their patrons.

Select materials, and we recommend you begin with PLA filament. It is easy to work with, widely available, and even biodegradable.

Find or create designs. You can download free 3D models from platforms like Thingiverse or create your own using CAD software. Tinkercad is a great option too.

Learn to slice. Slicing software like Cura will prepare your designs for printing.

Start Printing! Follow the printer's setup guide and experiment with small, simple projects to build confidence. A lot of our K12 clients start with a keychain or nameplate.

Applications of 3D printing

From hobbyist projects to industrial production, 3D printing has a wide range of applications. 

• Prototyping: Rapidly develop and test ideas. (Read about Koenigsegg Automotive here!)
• Manufacturing: Produce custom parts or small production runs.
• Medical: Create prosthetics, implants, and even bioprinted tissues.
• Education: Enhance learning with hands-on projects and models. We are in makerspaces all the time, and we see first-hand the impact of incorporating 3D printing into the curriculum.
• Art and Fashion: Enable intricate designs and personalized creations.

Troubleshooting common 3D printing issues

Even the most experienced users encounter challenges. Each of these items could be a blog post on its own, but here are tips for solving some common problems:

Layer shifting – the culprit is likely loose belts or misaligned axes.

Stringing – Adjust retraction settings or printing temperature.

Warping – Use a heated bed and proper adhesion techniques. Also, some materials are more prone to warping than others.

Clogged Nozzles – Clean the nozzle regularly and make sure you use good quality filament.

Why 3D printing is the future

3D printing is an excellent tool. It's also an excellent entry point for people to learn to make things. By enabling individuals and businesses to create on demand, it’s literally changing whole industries. Our makerspace clients tell us it is democratizing manufacturing, and opening doors to endless possibilities for their students – specially as a lot of students no longer have the opportunity to build things in their dad’s garage, the way earlier generations might have.

Whether your curiosity has been sparked by someone else talking about 3D printing, or you're looking to add 3D printing into your manufacturing workflow, the journey is as exciting as the destination. At 3DPrinterOS, we’re here to make every step of that journey seamless and inspiring.

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