In the video titled “Way of the Lazy Printmaster // 6 Non-Regulation 3D Printing Tips” by Make Anything, Devin, an experienced 3D printer, shares six sneaky tricks for tackling challenges in 3D printing. The tips are focused on finding the path of least resistance and completing the printing process quickly. Some of the tips covered in the video include using a combination of warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol with a glue stick for better adhesion, manually leveling the print bed, preventing dust from entering the hot end using a microfiber cloth and binder clip, and using tweezers to remove leftover filament on the nozzle. Devin also provides tips for addressing serious clogs, such as using needles or performing a cold pull, and purging filament with a blowtorch if necessary.

In this video, Devin, the master of 3D printing, reveals six clever tips to make 3D printing easier and more enjoyable. These non-regulation tips focus on maximizing efficiency and overcoming common challenges. Devin shares techniques such as combining warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol with a glue stick for better adhesion, manually leveling the print bed, using a microfiber cloth and binder clip to prevent dust from entering the hot end, utilizing tweezers to remove leftover filament on the nozzle, and addressing serious clogs by employing needles or performing a cold pull. He also demonstrates how to use the bag the printer came in as an enclosure for filaments that require a hot environment.

Way of the Lazy Printmaster

Shop Top Rated 3D Printers

Introduction

Welcome to the world of 3D printing, where creativity and innovation come to life. In this article, we will explore the Way of the Lazy Printmaster, a set of six non-regulation tips that will make your 3D printing experience easier and more enjoyable. These tips are aimed at finding the path of least resistance, allowing you to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced maker, these sneaky tricks will help you tackle the challenges that come with 3D printing.

Video Details

The content discussed in this article is based on a video titled “Way of the Lazy Printmaster // 6 Non-Regulation 3D Printing Tips” by Make Anything. Make Anything is a popular channel that provides valuable insights and tutorials on 3D printing. The video, sponsored by the Patrons of Make Anything, features Devin, a 3D printing expert with almost a decade of experience, sharing his knowledge and expertise in the field. Throughout the video, Devin explores six innovative tips that can revolutionize your 3D printing process and take it to the next level.

Find 3D Printing Accessories Here

Sponsorship

Before we delve into the six non-regulation tips, it is important to acknowledge the sponsorship of this video by the Patrons of Make Anything. These generous individuals are passionate about supporting creators like Devin and enabling them to continue sharing their invaluable knowledge with the community. Make Anything’s Patrons play a crucial role in ensuring the production of high-quality content that helps individuals in their journey towards mastering the art of 3D printing. We extend our appreciation to the Patrons of Make Anything for their continued support.

6 Non-Regulation 3D Printing Tips

Now, let’s dive into the six tips that will transform the way you approach 3D printing. These tips are designed to simplify the process, minimize common challenges, and improve the overall quality of your prints. By incorporating these techniques into your workflow, you can become a true lazy printmaster, effortlessly producing stunning prints.

Tip 1: The Wipe Down

The first tip in the Path of the Lazy Printmaster is called “The Wipe Down.” One of the most frustrating aspects of 3D printing is when your print fails to stick to the bed. To overcome this issue, Devin recommends combining warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol with a glue stick for better adhesion.

Step 1: Prepare warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol

To implement this tip, start by preparing a solution of warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol with a concentration of 91% or higher is ideal for this purpose.

Step 2: Apply glue stick to the print bed

Next, apply a coating of glue stick or PVA-based hairspray to the center of the print bed. This will enhance the adhesive properties of the bed.

Step 3: Wipe down the print bed with warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol

Now, using a microfiber cloth, wipe down the entire print bed with the warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol solution. This will clean the surface and provide optimal conditions for successful print adhesion.

Step 4: Start the print

After wiping down the print bed, you can start your print. The combination of the glue stick, warm soapy water or isopropyl alcohol, and the clean surface will ensure maximum adhesion, minimizing the chances of print failure.

Tip 2: The Art of the Live Level

The second tip, known as “The Art of the Live Level,” focuses on achieving a perfectly level print bed. Leveling the print bed is crucial for consistent and accurate prints.

Explanation of the tip

Devin highlights the importance of manually adjusting the print bed rather than relying solely on automatic bed leveling features. By manually leveling the bed, you have more control over the process and can ensure a precise and even level.

Step 1: Manually adjust the print bed

To begin, preheat the print bed and nozzle for PLA filament. Heating them up before leveling is essential because PLA filament can expand when heated.

Once heated, home the printer and disable the steppers. This allows you to move the printer components manually.

Step 2: Use a leveling tool

To achieve a level bed, use a leveling tool, such as a piece of printer paper or a feeler gauge. Move the print head across the bed, paying close attention to the gap between the nozzle and the bed. Adjust the leveling knobs or screws to achieve a consistent gap throughout the entire bed.

Step 3: Fine-tune the leveling

After the initial leveling, fine-tune the bed by manually extruding filament while moving the printhead. This helps you gauge the filament’s adherence to the bed and make any necessary adjustments.

Step 4: Test the leveling with a print

To verify your leveling adjustments, start a small test print. Watch closely as the first layer is being printed, ensuring that it adheres uniformly to the bed. Make any final adjustments if needed.

Tip 3: The Oil Drip Dust Clip

The third tip, known as the “Oil Drip Dust Clip,” focuses on preventing dust and debris from entering the hot end of your printer. Dust and debris can negatively impact print quality and cause clogs.

Explanation of the tip

Devin introduces a simple yet effective way to prevent dust from collecting on the filament. By utilizing a microfiber cloth and a binder clip, you can create a dust clip that attaches near the hot end, allowing the cloth to collect dust and debris.

Step 1: Prepare a microfiber cloth and binder clip

To implement this tip, gather a small microfiber cloth and a binder clip. The microfiber cloth will act as a filter, trapping any dust or debris that may accumulate on the filament.

Step 2: Attach the microfiber cloth to the hot end with the binder clip

Wrap the microfiber cloth around the filament, ensuring that it covers a significant portion of the filament’s length. Attach the cloth in place using the binder clip. Position the clip above the filament runout sensor or anywhere above the entrance to the hot end.

Step 3: Allow the cloth to collect dust and debris

As you continue printing, the microfiber cloth will collect dust and debris that would otherwise enter the hot end. The cloth can be replaced or cleaned regularly to maintain its effectiveness.

Step 4: Clean or replace the cloth regularly

To ensure optimal performance, regularly clean or replace the microfiber cloth. Simply remove the binder clip, remove the cloth, and clean or replace it as needed. This simple preventive measure will significantly reduce the risk of dust-related printing issues.

Tip 4: The Tweezer Dab

The fourth tip, known as “The Tweezer Dab,” is a handy technique for achieving a clean filament change and minimizing print defects.

Explanation of the tip

Devin demonstrates how using the back end of a pair of tweezers can effectively clean the nozzle and eliminate any residual filament. This technique allows for a smoother transition between colors during filament changes, reducing the chances of unwanted print defects.

Step 1: Heat the nozzle to a suitable temperature

Before performing the tweezer dab, heat the nozzle to a suitable temperature. This will make the filament more pliable and easier to remove.

Step 2: Use tweezers to remove leftover filament on the nozzle

With the heated nozzle, carefully use the back end of the tweezers to remove any leftover filament that may be stuck on the nozzle. Gently scrape the nozzle, ensuring not to damage it.

Step 3: Be careful not to damage the nozzle

When performing the tweezer dab, it is critical to use caution and avoid causing any damage to the delicate nozzle. Apply gentle pressure and monitor your movements to prevent any mishaps.

Step 4: Continue with the printing process

After removing the residual filament, you can continue the printing process as usual. The tweezer dab technique allows for a cleaner filament change, resulting in improved print quality and fewer defects.

Tip 5: Dealing with Serious Clogs

The fifth tip addresses the challenge of serious clogs, which can be frustrating and hinder the printing process. Devin shares some effective techniques for dealing with serious clogs, depending on their severity.

Explanation of the tip

Dealing with serious clogs requires a more advanced approach compared to minor clogs. Devin suggests assessing the severity of the clog and using appropriate techniques to resolve the issue effectively.

Step 1: Identify the severity of the clog

The first step is to identify the severity of the clog. Minor clogs can often be resolved with simple techniques, while more stubborn clogs require more intensive measures.

Step 2: Use a needle to clear minor clogs

For minor clogs, using a needle can be an effective solution. Carefully insert the needle into the nozzle and gently maneuver it to clear any obstructions. This technique can help restore normal filament flow.

Step 3: Perform a cold pull for more stubborn clogs

If the clog proves to be more stubborn, a cold pull technique can be applied. Heat the nozzle to around 250 degrees Celsius and load a filament with a higher melting point, such as ABS or nylon. Once the filament is heated, swiftly remove it from the nozzle while the printer is in a cool-down phase. This technique can help dislodge trapped debris inside the nozzle.

Step 4: Use a blowtorch to purge the filament if necessary

For the most severe clogs, a blowtorch can be utilized to purge the filament completely. It’s important to note that using a blowtorch requires caution and safety measures. Remove the nozzle from the printer and heat it with a blowtorch until the filament residue burns away. Ensure proper ventilation and follow safety guidelines when using a blowtorch.

Tip 6: The Hot Bag

The final tip, known as “The Hot Bag,” focuses on storing and maintaining filaments that require a hot environment for optimal performance.

Explanation of the tip

Devin introduces an innovative way to utilize the bag that the printer came in as an enclosure for filaments that require a hot environment. By storing the filament in the bag, you can maintain a suitable temperature, enhancing print quality and reducing the risk of issues related to temperature fluctuations.

Step 1: Keep the bag your printer came in

The first step is to keep the bag that your printer came in. This bag is most likely made of a material that can withstand higher temperatures.

Step 2: Use the bag as an enclosure for filaments that require a hot environment

When working with filaments that require a hot environment, place the spool inside the bag. Seal the bag, ensuring that it is airtight. The bag will act as an enclosure, providing the filament with a stable and consistent temperature.

Step 3: Store the filament in the bag when not in use

When the filament is not in use, place it back inside the bag and seal it. This practice prevents moisture absorption and keeps the filament in optimal condition for future prints.

Step 4: Maintain a suitable temperature for the filament

To maintain the desired temperature inside the bag, consider using a filament dryer or a similar device. These tools can regulate the temperature within the bag, extending the lifespan and print quality of the filament.

Conclusion

3D printing is a fascinating realm filled with endless possibilities. In this article, we have explored the Way of the Lazy Printmaster, a set of six non-regulation tips that can greatly enhance your 3D printing experience. These tips, shared by Devin of Make Anything, offer valuable insights into overcoming common challenges and improving print quality. By incorporating techniques such as the wipe down, the art of the live level, the oil drip dust clip, the tweezer dab, dealing with serious clogs, and the hot bag, you can streamline your workflow, achieve better results, and truly master the art of 3D printing. Embrace the path of least resistance and witness your creations come to life with ease and efficiency.

Maintain Your 3D Printer with these Tools