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Introduction to 3D Printing
Bring your ideas to life with 3D printing! In this 8-week beginner-friendly course, you’ll learn the full workflow of turning a digital design into a real-world object. We’ll cover sourcing models, preparing them for print, troubleshooting common issues, and even creating your own designs in Blender.
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Free consult- 3D modelling
- 3D printing
Level Beginner
Time to complete 8 weeks
Designed to develop
Included in this course
Introduction to 3D Printing
- What 3D printing is and how it works (FDM vs. resin printers)
- Understanding printer parts and terminology (extruder, build plate, filament, supports)
- Safety basics when operating a 3D printer
- Overview of the 3D printing workflow (model → slice → print → finish)
3D Model Sourcing
- Finding ready-to-print models on websites (Thingiverse, Printables, MyMiniFactory, Cults3D)
- Understanding file formats: STL, OBJ, 3MF
- Evaluating models for printability (size, detail, supports required)
- Licensing & attribution: what you can/can’t do with free/paid models
STL File Slicing Basics
- Introduction to slicing software (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio)
- Setting up printer profiles and materials (PLA, PETG, ABS basics)
- Understanding layer height, infill, and wall settings
- Adding supports and rafts when needed
First Prints & Troubleshooting
- Running your first print
- Calibrating the printer (bed leveling, nozzle temperature, flow)
- Common print failures and fixes (warping, stringing, adhesion issues)
- Basic post-processing: removing supports, sanding, filing
Introduction to 3D Modeling with Blender
- Installing Blender and setting up for 3D printing units (millimeters)
- Creating simple shapes and combining them into objects
- Exporting models as STL files
Intermediate Modeling for Printing
- Hollowing vs. solid designs for printing efficiency
- Scaling and resizing for functional prints
Advanced Printing Techniques
- Multi-part prints and assembly
- Printing with different filaments (flexible, wood, glow-in-the-dark)
- Orientation optimization for strength and aesthetics
Final Project & Workflow Mastery
- Planning and creating a personal 3D printing project from scratch
- Combining sourcing, slicing, and modeling
- Sharing designs online (Thingiverse/Printables uploads)
- Presenting the final printed project