4 ms·
Ask HN: How did you learn about 3D printing?
I'm seriously considering getting a 3d printer, mostly for fun & educational projects with my 9 year old son (and by myself). I'm curious what resources people have found the most useful that aren't of the "for dummies" variety.
Things like what software to use for designing parts, suggested projects, tips for good prints, etc. etc.
- respinal 6y agoI basically used YouTube videos, forums (https://www.3dhubs.com/knowledge-base/how-design-snap-fit-joints-3d-printing/ https://www.3dhubs.com/knowledge-base/how-design-snap-fit-jo...), and the instructions from the 3D printer's company. I have this one in my lab: https://www.flashforge.com/product-detail/4 https://www.flashforge.com/product-detail/4. I started with something very simple and only one filament. Then, did something more complex with two filaments. I have some videos here: https://randyfespinal.wixsite.com/randyespinalcabrera/3d-printing https://randyfespinal.wixsite.com/randyespinalcabrera/3d-pri... If you are familiar with Fusion 360 or any CAD software, that helps a lot. I love fusion 360.
- tnorthcutt 6y agoThank you! I'm not at all familiar with CAD software or the like so I suspect that'll be the biggest hurdle. Is there a good alternative to Fusion 360 that's more of a hobby price point?
- respinal 6y agoYes, the CAD part is the first step. Fusion 360 has a version that you can use for free for one year (https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/personal https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/personal). Fusion is very user-friendly. Depending on your 3D printer, you can 3D print a picture (2D to 3D). Mine has that option (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vic6PkCgYk8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vic6PkCgYk8), so you basically can use Microsoft Word or any program to make your design. The only issue could be the dimensions, but if it is for fun then it is OK. Also, look for any picture and 3D print it.
- tobyhede 6y agoI found it surprisingly accessible. there are a ton of great resources on YouTube, reddit is excellent for advice on tuning and troubleshooting. Thingiverse has too many great models, often with detailed advice and specs for printing. Tinkercad is a very beginner friendly design app. As someone rolling with a -2 to visual acuity I still managed to work it out. Heaps of fun to work with your kids, my favourite project has been this clothes rack and hangers for my daughter's Sylvania families https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3345575 https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3345575
- tobyhede 6y agoOh, and other advice is just buy a big roll of filament and experiment - I ran lots of test cubes with different settings to zone in on what worked and understand the relationship between different attributes.
- tagawa 6y agoBy binge-watching the wonderful Maker's Muse: https://www.youtube.com/makersmuse https://www.youtube.com/makersmuse