3D Printing
Take DIY to a new level.
3D printing lets you turn digital models into physical objects. You design or download a model, use software slice it into layers, and then your printer extrudes plastic to create your new object in three dimensions.
It's tech-heavy, and more expensive to start than other hobbies, but the payoff is real. The printer itself is a serious investment, but once it's set up you can create replacement parts, niche tools you can't buy in stores, custom toys, built-to-measure organizers, and household fixes. The community shares free models for almost everything you might want.
If you're interested in the idea but you can't justify the cost or space requirements of a full-size printer, 3D printing pens are a novel alternative. They essentially let you doodle with plastic in three dimensions.
You’ll love 3d printing if…
- you want to make custom parts that don't exist commercially
- you're interested in 3D modeling
- you have an interest in learning new technical skills
What you'll need to get started
Flashforge 3D Printer
An entry-level 3D printer with auto-leveling. Print area is just over 8.5" in each dimension.
Filament
PLA is the easiest filament to print and the cheapest. Sunlu has a fantastic range of filaments in fun colors, including multi-color and color-shifting filaments.
3D Printing Pen
This handheld 3D printing pen is a novel alternative to a full-size 3D printer. Hand-draw shapes, connect them together, and make your own decorative or useful items. Small multipacks of filament are also available.
3D Printer Tools Kit
A starter kit of essential tools for nozzle cleaning, print bed scraping, filament clipping, etc.
Creality K2 Pro 3D Printer
A next-level 3D printer with a larger print area, built-in timelapse camera, and four-color printing.
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