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Makerspace Pages: 3D Printing

Equipment

The library makerspace has six Dremel 3D45 printers. The maximum build size is 254 mm (10 in) (length) x 152 mm (~6 in) (depth) x 170 mm (6.7 in) (height). For additional information please review the user manual.

3D printing is also available at the Harper and Levine campus libraries. 3D printing will be available at all campus library locations soon.

Read more below to get information on how you can get started 3D printing.

How do I 3D print?

3D printing will be administered through 3DPrinterOS. To get started printing watch this short video.

Finding 3D Models

There are numerous websites where you can download 3D models. These are just a few. Please note that while the majority of these files are available for free some might also charge for certain models.

Thingiverse.com

Cults3D.com

Printables.com

MyMiniFactory.com

Pinshape.com

Thangs.com

YouMagazine.com

Tutorials

Getting Started Guide on 3D Design

Reduce File Size of an STL - This shows you how to use "Decimate" to reduce the file size in Blender without losing object resolution.

How to cut 3D files using Meshmixer - You can cut apart large files so you can print them in multiple pieces.

3D Printing Policies

  • 1 print per day maximum.
  • 3D prints can be no longer than 12 hours in length.
  • Print jobs must be sent at least 45 minutes before closing. Prints sent after that time will be started the next day/available time.
  • The makerspace uses PLA filament. We cannot guarantee a particular filament color for your prints.
  • You do not have to be present for the duration of your print. Once your print is finished it will be held for 7 business days (including Saturday). If your print is not picked up within 7 days it will be considered abandoned.
  • Printing weapon related items (includes prop items and anything resembling a weapon) or any inappropriate or explicit items will not be permitted. Decisions by Makerspace staff regarding unacceptable items are final
  • Only library staff can remove prints from the 3D printer.

See the Policies page for other policies and more detail. 

Creating 3D Models

There are numerous software you can use to create 3D models. Here are a just a few.

  • Tinkercad is a good place to start if you are new to 3D modeling. It is a free program that runs in  your browser. You can design things with basic shapes. Tinkercad can be easy to start using without much instruction but to learn more about the features you can take this LinkedIn Learning training (requires a Central Piedmont login).
  • Blender is a free and open-source software that is used for many things such as animation, visual effects, and 3D models. The learning curve for Blender can be a little steeper, however, there are tutorials available as well as this LinkedIn Learning training (requires a Central Piedmont login).
  • Fusion360 - free for educational use
  • Autocad - free educational license
  • OpenSCAD - Free script-based modeling software.