How to Start 3D Printing

How to state 3D printing. This is the one single question that has prevented me from starting. In my previous post, I talked about deciding to take the plunge into 3D printing. I also went through the “how to pick a 3D printer” steps I followed. Now for How to start 3D printing for real. Or so I thought.

Now, the next step is how to start 3D printing. Again, I grab my handy list.

1. Choose a 3D printer. There are many different types and brands of 3D printers available, so it’s important to choose one that’s right for me. I considered budget, skill level, and the types of objects you want to print when making your decision.
2. Then, set up your 3D printer. Once you’ve chosen a 3D printer, you’ll need to set it up. This may involve assembling the printer, calibrating the print bed, and installing the software.
3. Next, find 3D models to print. There are many websites where you can find free and paid 3D models. Once you’ve found a model you want to print, you’ll need to slice it into layers that the printer can understand.
4. Finally, print your object. Once the model is sliced, you can load it into the printer and start printing. The print time will vary depending on the size and complexity of the object.

Ok, step 1 is complete. I chose the Ender 3D Pro.

From the information supplied by the Tabletop Top Terrain folks with the Pirates vs Sailors Nightmare at Sea Kickstarter, I purchased the following items:

• 3D Printer: Ender 3 Pro
• Filament: OVERTURE PLA Filament 1.75mm PLA
• Lubricant: Permatex 80345 White Lithium Grease
• Glue: MITREAPEL CA Glue with Activator

The 3D Printer Assembly

When the box arrived, the Christmas child in me came out again. My eyes widened with excitement as I start to open the box. A squeal of delight as I begin to pull things out. And then, a knot in my stomach appeared. The printer was in pieces. Lots of pieces. And I have to assemble it. Was expecting a bit of assembly but not the entire printer.

How to Assemble a 3D Printer

I will admit, all of the parts were daunting. I think it sat on the side of my desk for a week while I worked up the courage to being the assembly of the 3D printer. And on a Friday, I did. I made sure to have enough “quiet” time so that I can start and finish the 3D printer. I was worried if I stopped, I might make a mistake by missing something when started the build back up.

As I begin, I was actually surprised by how well Creality labeled everything. The parts were clearly labeled with removable stickers. And ones that actually removed without leaving glue behind. Most importantly, all the screws were in individual bags with labels. Easy to pick out the ones needed. Tools were even provided along with a few brushes for maintenance. All in all, pretty excellent on Creality’s part.

The instructions were also really clear. There were only about 10 steps in all. Everything was pretty self-explanatory and fit together well. I never once had to look up a YouTube video to see things more clearly. Probably one of the easiest things I have ever built. Considering I have 4 kids with 4 sets of toys, that says a lot. All in all, a successful Friday afternoon. Now to start printing.

Wait, how do I actually get the .stl files over to the printer? Where are the usage instructions? What’s this little card? Slicer software? Go to creality.com and download.

Next: The slicer software.