Revised: 3D Printing – 13 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got Started

Hey there! My name is Nils and I’ve got an awesome video to share with you. It’s called “Revised: 3D Printing – 13 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got Started” by The 3D Printing Zone. In this video, I’m going to teach you thirteen things about 3D printing that I wish someone had told me when I first started. We’ll cover topics like the hobby aspect of 3D printing, the importance of slicing, print profiles, using ironing, and the significance of different printing materials. You’ll also learn about the importance of keeping an eye on the printing process, utilizing OctoPrint, understanding support structures, and using rafts, brims, and skirts to enhance your prints. And that’s just the start! So, if you’re thinking about buying your first 3D printer or want to further enhance your skills, stay tuned and let’s get started on this exciting 3D printing journey together!

Hey there my name is Nils and in this Video we’re going to be covering the Revised and updated edition of the 13 Things I wish I knew when I got started With 3d printing so stick around we’ll Be right back on the 3d printing zone. Now Before we jump into the 13 things I want to give a little bit of a Background just so you know how I came Up with these and why I produced this Video. I actually produced a very similar Video to this on my other channel called Learn to DIY and in that video I went Over these 13 topics but I had some Audio issues and the video got really Lengthy but it’s got over half a million Views at this point maybe more by the Time you watch it and a lot of people Really responded to that and and had Comments and had lots of good things to Say they just wanted an updated version That didn’t have audio issues and maybe It was a little more concise this is the Revised edition of that video and I’m Hoping it covers some of the things that You may take a little longer to learn if Someone doesn’t share these with you Now just a moment ago I Mentioned print profiles and that’s Number 11 is print profiles which are Basically a set of settings that you can Save it’s a batch of settings that you Can save for a particular type of print

The Hobby Aspect of 3D Printing

When it comes to 3D printing, one important thing to remember is that it is a hobby. It requires patience and a mindset of continuous learning and improvement. Unlike traditional printing, 3D printing is not plug-and-play. It takes time and effort to get good at it. However, if you approach it with the right mindset and treat it like a craft that you will gradually get better at, you will find it to be an enjoyable and rewarding hobby.

Continuous Learning and Improvement

As a hobby, 3D printing offers endless opportunities for learning and improvement. There is always something new to discover and techniques to master. Embracing this mindset of continuous learning will not only help you stay motivated but also enhance your skills as a 3D printer enthusiast. From exploring different materials to experimenting with various settings, there is always room for improvement in the world of 3D printing.

Patience and Perseverance

Patience is an essential trait to have when it comes to 3D printing. It is common to encounter failures and frustrations along the way. However, having the patience to troubleshoot and persevere through challenges will ultimately lead to success. Remember that each failed print is an opportunity to learn and improve. With time and practice, you will become more proficient and achieve the desired results.

The Importance of Slicing

Slicing is a crucial step in the 3D printing process. It involves preparing a 3D model for printing by generating a series of instructions that the printer will follow. Adjusting the settings during the slicing process can greatly affect the overall print quality. Parameters such as speed, resolution, and fan speed can be fine-tuned to achieve optimal results.

Adjusting Settings: Speed, Resolution, Fan Speed

When slicing a 3D model, it is important to adjust the settings according to the specific requirements of the print. The speed at which the printer moves, both when printing the object itself and when printing supports or bed adhesion structures, can be adjusted to optimize the print quality. Similarly, the resolution can be fine-tuned to balance print quality and printing time. Additionally, adjusting the fan speed can help improve bridging and overhangs.

Using Print Profiles

Print profiles are saved sets of settings that can be used for specific types of prints. They allow you to quickly apply a batch of settings that have been optimized for a particular material or printing quality. By using print profiles, you can save time and ensure consistent and optimal printing results. Having different print profiles for different materials and qualities can streamline your printing workflow and make the process more efficient.

Saved Sets of Settings

A print profile can include various settings such as nozzle temperature, bed temperature, layer height, print speed, and cooling fan speed. By saving these sets of settings, you can easily switch between different profiles without manually adjusting each setting every time. This not only saves time but also ensures that you are using the appropriate settings for each print.

Time Saving and Optimal Printing

One of the main benefits of using print profiles is the time-saving aspect. Instead of spending time manually adjusting settings for each print, you can simply select the appropriate profile and start printing. This becomes especially useful when you work with different materials or need to achieve specific printing qualities. By using predefined settings, you can optimize your printing process and achieve the best possible results.

The Technique of Ironing

Ironing is a technique that involves running the hot end of the 3D printer over the top layer of a print to create a smooth and glossy surface. This technique is particularly useful for improving the appearance of prints, especially when dealing with visible top surfaces. By ironing the top layer, you can eliminate imperfections such as layer lines, resulting in a higher-quality finish.

Creating a Smooth, Glossy Surface

To achieve a smooth and glossy surface through ironing, several factors come into play. First, make sure that the hot end is at the correct temperature for the filament being used. Next, adjust the travel speed and enable features such as coasting and wipe to eliminate any oozing or stringing. Finally, experiment with ironing settings such as ironing flow, ironing speed, and ironing pattern to achieve the desired surface finish.

Improving Print Appearance

Ironing is not only about aesthetics but also about improving the overall print appearance. By removing visible layer lines and imperfections, ironing can give your prints a more polished and professional look. Whether you are printing functional parts or decorative objects, incorporating ironing into your printing process can greatly enhance the final result.

Utilizing the 3D Printing Community and Forums

The 3D printing community is a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Engaging with the community through forums and social media platforms can provide you with a wealth of knowledge and support. You can learn from others’ experiences, share tips and tricks, troubleshoot issues, and discover new upgrades and enhancements for your 3D printer.

Sharing Tips and Tricks

Within the 3D printing community, there is a culture of sharing knowledge and experiences. By participating in forums and social media groups, you can exchange tips and tricks with fellow enthusiasts. Whether it’s a technique for improving print quality or a recommendation for a specific material or software, the collective wisdom of the community can help you overcome challenges and achieve better results.

Troubleshooting and Support

When facing issues or technical difficulties with your 3D printer, the community can be a valuable source of troubleshooting assistance. By describing your problem and seeking advice from experienced members, you can often find solutions or workarounds to common issues. Additionally, manufacturers and developers are often active in the community, providing direct support and addressing user concerns.

Discovering Upgrades and Enhancements

The 3D printing community is constantly evolving, with new technologies and upgrades being developed and shared. By staying active in the community, you can keep up to date with the latest advancements and discover new enhancements for your 3D printer. From hardware modifications to software updates, being part of the community ensures that you are at the forefront of the 3D printing world.

Exploring Different Materials for 3D Printing

While PLA (polylactic acid) is the most common material used in 3D printing, there is a wide range of other materials available. Each material has its own unique properties, making it suitable for specific purposes or applications. By exploring different materials such as TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), and wood filament, you can expand your printing capabilities and achieve different textures, strengths, and finishes.

PLA as the Most Common Material

PLA is a versatile and beginner-friendly material widely used in 3D printing. It is known for its low printing temperature, minimal warping, and environmental friendliness. PLA is suitable for a wide range of applications, including prototypes, models, and decorative objects. Its ease of use and availability in various colors and finishes make it a popular choice among 3D printer enthusiasts.

TPU, ABS, and Wood Filament for Specific Purposes

TPU, or flexible filament, offers unique flexibility and elasticity, making it ideal for printing objects such as phone cases, shoe soles, and prosthetics. ABS filament, on the other hand, is known for its strength, durability, and heat resistance. It is commonly used for functional parts, mechanical components, and objects requiring post-processing techniques such as sanding and painting. Wood filament can be used to add a natural and textured look to prints, making it suitable for artistic and decorative purposes.

Keeping an Eye on the Printing Process

Monitoring the printing process is an essential part of ensuring successful prints. By keeping an eye on the progress, you can catch any errors or issues that may arise and take appropriate action. This includes monitoring the movement of the printer, checking for proper filament flow, and ensuring consistent bed adhesion. Additionally, by using webcams or IP cameras, you can remotely monitor the printing process, allowing you to intervene if necessary.

Webcams and IP Cameras for Monitoring

Webcams and IP cameras can be easily integrated into your 3D printing setup, providing real-time monitoring of the print. By positioning a camera to capture the printer’s workspace, you can keep an eye on the progress from anywhere using a computer or mobile device. This remote monitoring capability allows you to catch any errors or issues early on and make adjustments as needed, ensuring successful prints even when you’re not physically present.

Catching Errors and Remote Control

The ability to remotely monitor your prints using webcams or IP cameras also enables you to catch errors or issues in real-time. For example, if the printer encounters a clog or filament runout, you can quickly pause the print and take the necessary steps to resolve the problem. Additionally, using remote control software or apps, you can make adjustments to settings or even stop the print process altogether if needed.

Utilizing OctoPi or OctoPrint

OctoPi or OctoPrint is a powerful software solution that allows you to control and monitor your 3D printer remotely. By running OctoPi on a Raspberry Pi connected to your printer, you can access a web interface that provides remote control functionality. This includes adjusting settings, starting and stopping prints, and monitoring the printing progress. Additionally, OctoPi enables you to capture time-lapse videos of your prints, allowing you to share your creations in an engaging and visually appealing format.

Remote Control and Monitoring

OctoPi or OctoPrint’s remote control functionality opens up a whole new level of convenience and flexibility in 3D printing. With just a few clicks on the web interface, you can adjust various settings and start or stop prints from anywhere. This eliminates the need to physically interact with the printer and allows you to maintain control over the printing process even when you’re not in the same room.

Time-lapse Videos of Prints

OctoPi or OctoPrint’s time-lapse feature enables you to capture the entire printing process in a condensed video format. By taking periodic snapshots and stitching them together, you can create visually stunning time-lapse videos of your prints. This not only allows you to document your creations but also share them with the 3D printing community or showcase your work on social media platforms.

Understanding Support Structures

Support structures are essential for successful 3D prints, especially when dealing with overhanging or complex designs. These structures provide temporary support for areas of the print that would otherwise droop or fail during the printing process. Understanding how to properly implement and remove support structures can greatly improve the quality and accuracy of your prints.

Importance for Overhanging or Complex Designs

Overhanging or complex designs often require support structures to ensure that the print maintains its shape and integrity during the printing process. Without adequate support, certain areas of the print may sag or fail, resulting in poor print quality or even print failures. By understanding where and how to place support structures, you can ensure that your prints come out as intended.

Tips and Techniques for Successful Prints

When working with support structures, there are several tips and techniques that can help ensure successful prints. First, orienting the model in a way that minimizes the need for support structures can greatly simplify the printing process. Additionally, optimizing the support structure settings, such as the density and pattern, can reduce material usage and make post-processing easier. Finally, proper removal of support structures after printing, using tools such as pliers or support removal solutions, can help achieve clean and high-quality results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 3D printing is a fascinating hobby that offers endless opportunities for learning and creativity. By embracing the hobby aspect and continuously striving for improvement, you can unlock the full potential of your 3D printer. From adjusting settings during slicing to utilizing print profiles, exploring different materials, and engaging with the 3D printing community, there are many ways to enhance your skills and achieve exceptional results. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced enthusiast, remember to be patient, always strive to learn more, and enjoy the journey of 3D printing.

Revised: 3D Printing – 13 Things I Wish I Knew When I Got Started

If you’re interested in buying your first 3D Printer, learning how to use it, or have been involved in 3D Printing for a while, I want to share thirteen important things about 3D Printing that took me some time to understand fully. Hopefully, these insights will save you time and help you on your 3D Printing journey.

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