Hey, beginner 3D printer enthusiast! Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the different support settings in Cura? Well, don’t worry, because Slice Print Roleplay has got you covered with their tutorial and recommended settings for Cura supports in 3D printing. In this video, they cover everything you need to know about adding supports to your models in Cura, including the best settings to get started and how to make better use of them. They even provide timestamps for easy navigation and encourage viewers to ask questions by providing contact information for the creator. So, if you’re ready to conquer your support frustrations and take your 3D printing game to the next level, this video is definitely worth checking out!

Now, let’s dive into the details. The video starts by explaining how to determine if a model needs supports by using the layer view and checking for unsupported areas. They recommend using flat surfaces on the bottom of each foot of the model as good attachment points to the build plate. The importance of support z distance and support interface thickness is emphasized, and the video also recommends using a brim for better bed adhesion on smaller models. Additionally, various support settings are discussed, including support structure, support placement, support overhang angle, support pattern, support density, support z distance, and support interface. It’s important to note that these settings may not work for every printer, so it’s essential to adjust them based on individual setups and models. So, whether you’re a beginner or just looking to improve your support settings in Cura, this tutorial is packed with valuable information to help you out!

Cura Supports Tutorial

Overview of Slice Print Roleplay video

In this video by Slice Print Roleplay, a comprehensive tutorial and recommended settings guide for using Cura supports in 3D printing is provided. The video aims to assist beginners in understanding the basics of adding supports to a model in Cura. It covers the best support settings to get started and offers a beginner’s guide to making better use of Cura supports. The content includes timestamps for easy navigation through different sections of the video, allowing viewers to find specific information quickly. Throughout the video, viewers are encouraged to ask questions and interact with the creator. Contact information is provided for further inquiries and discussion.

Explanation of Cura supports

Cura supports are structures created during the 3D printing process to provide stability and prevent the collapse of overhanging sections of a model. When printing a model with protruding or overhanging parts, supports are necessary to ensure a successful print. Cura supports are generated automatically based on specific settings that determine their structure, placement, and density. By using supports, 3D printer users can achieve more complex and intricate designs that would otherwise be impossible to create.

Tutorial on adding supports in Cura

The tutorial in the video starts by explaining the first step in adding supports to a model: determining if the model needs supports. This can be done by turning off supports and slicing the model, then using the layer view to check for unsupported areas. Unsupported areas refer to sections of the model that will be printed in mid-air without any support structure.

The video highlights the importance of identifying attachment points on the build plate. Flat surfaces on the bottom of each foot of the model are good attachment points. These provide a secure base for the print and reduce the chances of failed prints or damage to the model.

The tutorial also discusses unsupported islands, which are areas of the model that are floating in mid-air and need supports. To illustrate this, the video uses the example of a decorative Charmander model. By examining the layer view, viewers can see how each layer of the model is built off the previous layer until an unsupported island is reached.

Introduction to the Settings Guide plugin

The tutorial then introduces a helpful plugin called the Settings Guide by Ghostkeeper. This plugin provides detailed descriptions of different support settings in Cura, making it easier for beginners to navigate the vast array of options. By hovering over each setting, users can access a comprehensive description that offers valuable insights and information. The Settings Guide plugin is recommended as a valuable tool, particularly for those who are new to 3D printing and Cura.

Discussion of different support settings

The video dives into a detailed discussion of the various support settings available in Cura. These include support structure, support placement, support overhang angle, support pattern, support density, support z distance, and support interface.

Support structure refers to the type of support system used. The two main options are normal supports and tree supports. Normal supports are more commonly used and provide stable and reliable support structures. Tree supports, while popular for certain applications, can be hit or miss and may require additional fine-tuning to achieve satisfactory results.

Support placement determines where supports are generated. The options are everywhere and only touching build plate. The everywhere option creates supports wherever Cura deems necessary, including inside the model. The only touching build plate option limits supports to areas that directly touch the build plate, reducing the need for extensive support removal.

Support overhang angle dictates the angle at which support structures will be generated. It is important to understand and set the appropriate overhang angle to ensure that the supports adequately support the overhanging sections of the model.

Support pattern determines the arrangement of support structures. Different patterns, such as lines or grids, can be selected based on the specific needs of the model. The choice of support pattern can impact print quality and ease of support removal.

Support density determines the number of support structures generated. Higher density can provide more stability but may also increase printing time and material usage. Lower density may result in less stable supports but can help reduce support removal efforts.

Support z distance defines the gap between the model and the support structures. It is crucial to set this distance accurately to ensure proper support adhesion and minimize damage to the model during support removal.

Support interface settings determine the presence and thickness of an interface layer between the model and the supports. The interface can provide a smooth contact surface and help improve the overall print quality.

Importance of support z distance and interface thickness

The tutorial emphasizes the importance of support z distance and support interface thickness. The support z distance determines the gap between the model and the support structures, while the support interface thickness defines the thickness of the interface layer between the model and the supports. These settings play a crucial role in ensuring proper adhesion and ease of support removal.

By fine-tuning these settings, users can achieve better print results and minimize the risk of damaging the model during support removal. It is recommended to experiment with different values to find the optimal balance for each specific model and printer setup.

Recommendation to use a brim for better bed adhesion

The video recommends using a brim, a thin extruded layer around the base of the printed object, for better bed adhesion, especially for smaller models. The brim increases the contact surface between the model and the build plate, reducing the risk of print detachment during the printing process. It is a simple yet effective technique to enhance stability and minimize print failures.

Final tips and reminders

The tutorial concludes by reminding viewers that the recommended support settings may not work optimally for every printer and model. It is crucial to adjust support settings based on individual printer setups and specific model requirements. The process of finding the ideal support settings often involves experimentation and fine-tuning.

In addition, the video encourages viewers to explore additional resources and communities related to 3D printing. It acknowledges Lethal Shadows as the sponsor of the video and provides links to their products. Amazon Associate links to recommended 3D printing products are also included for viewers’ convenience.

The video mentions Patreon as a means to support the creator and gain access to exclusive rewards. It highlights the Slice Print Roleplay Facebook group as a community for 3D makers and tabletop gamers, where viewers can engage in discussions and share their experiences.

For business inquiries, the video provides contact information via email. It also mentions other notable models and artists such as Filaments Folly, providing links to their work. The video acknowledges partner sites like MiniHoarder, which offers services for buying, selling, and protecting mini collections.

Gratitude is expressed towards Streambeats for providing the music used in the video, adding a professional touch to the content.

In conclusion, this tutorial video by Slice Print Roleplay provides valuable insights and guidance on using Cura supports in 3D printing. It covers the basics of adding supports, recommended settings, and important considerations for successful prints. By following the tutorial and experimenting with the recommended settings, viewers can enhance their 3D printing experience and achieve higher-quality prints.

Cura Supports for Beginners: Tutorial & Recommend Settings

3D printing is an amazing hobby, but it can be frustrating, especially when it comes to supports. Understanding the different support settings in Cura can be overwhelming. That’s why I created this video to help you grasp the basics of adding supports to a model in Cura. I’ll go over the best Cura support settings for beginners and provide a comprehensive guide on what Cura supports are and how to make the most of them.

If you have any questions about 3D printing, feel free to ask in the comments or reach out to me on Facebook, Discord, or any other platform. 😊

If you enjoyed the video, consider subscribing to my YouTube channel!

You can find all the epic stuff at Lethal Shadows, the sponsor of this video, by visiting their website: Lethal Shadows

To see all the 3D printing tools and equipment I use and recommend, click on the Kit link below: SPR Kit (Kit/Amazon)

Please note that as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

If you want to support my work and gain access to cool rewards, join my Patreon: Patreon

Join the Slice Print Roleplay Facebook Group to connect with a great community of 3D makers and tabletop gamers: Facebook Group

For business inquiries, you can contact me at [email protected]

Special thanks to Filaments Folly for their featured models in this video. Check them out: Filaments Folly

The Mini Overhang test by agibson2 is a great option for testing supports: Mini Overhang Test – agibson2

If you’re looking to buy, sell, or store your mini collection, MiniHoarder is an excellent service. Use my code “letsprintsomething” to get your first month free: MiniHoarder

Thank you to Streambeats for providing the awesome music: Streambeats