Table of Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1 The Big Question—What Is 3D Printing?

What Is a 3D Printer?

Say Hello to Plastic!

Solid to Liquid

A Different Type of Motor

3D Objects Require Three Axes

A Few Other Items

Chapter 2 Find Yourself a 3D Printer

3D Printer Options to Consider

Initial Cost

Ease of Assembly and Tech Support

Operating System Compatibility

Cost and Type of Filament

Resolution/Nozzle Diameter

Print Bed Size and Leveling

Do Your Homework

Chapter 3 Assembly Assistance for the Printrbot Simple

Printrbot Simple Assembly Part I

Early Assembly Observations

Midway Through Assembly Observations

End of Assembly Observations

Connecting All Wires

Finishing Thoughts

Chapter 4 Configuring the Software

Types of 3D Printing Software

Downloading the Repetier Software

Repetier Settings

Slic3r

Chapter 5 First Print with the Simple

Downloading an STL

Connecting the Simple to Repetier

Get the Hot End Up to Proper Temperature

Slice Your Object into Layers

Home the Hot End

Print!

Upgrades!

Chapter 6 Free 3D Modeling Software

Tinkercad

Examining Tinkercad

Wrapping Up Tinkercad

Chapter 7 Creating a 3D Model with Tinkercad

Hello World

Printing a Sketch or Simple Image

Chapter 8 More 3D Modeling Tools

123D Family of Apps

123D Design

123D Creature

123D Sculpt

123D Make

123D Catch

Having Fun

Chapter 9 Further Explorations

Go Bake Some Cookies

Don’t Forget the Youngest 3D Fans

Around the House

Showing Off

OpenSCAD

Chapter 10 Alternatives to the Printrbot Simple

Build Your Own 3D Printer

Consider 3D Printer Kits

Kickstarter and 3D Printers

Print-It-for-You Services

CNC and Laser Cutters

Scanning Objects

Chapter 11 Where Do I Go From Here?

CNC Machine

Laser Cutter

Plasma Cutter

The Workshop of the Future

Appendix A 3D Printer and Modeling Resources

Index