Blog
Guides, tutorials, and thoughts on 3D printing. Whether you're new to the craft or a seasoned pro, there's something here for you.
Discover how pigments and dyes in 3D printing filaments affect print strength, heat resistance, and overall quality—and learn which colors perform best for different applications.
A practical framework for choosing the right 3D printing material. Learn how to match PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and other filaments to your specific project requirements.
A practical guide to preparing your 3D models for successful printing. Learn how to check for errors, optimize your mesh, and avoid common pitfalls before hitting print.
A practical guide to composite and specialty 3D printing filaments—wood-fill, metal-fill, glow-in-the-dark, marble, and more. Learn what they're made of, how they print, and when to use them.
Learn practical design techniques to eliminate support material from your 3D prints. Save time, material, and post-processing work with these proven strategies for self-supporting designs.
Learn the minimum sizes, best fonts, and proven techniques for adding crisp, readable text to your 3D printed parts—whether embossed or engraved.
Learn how to design living hinges that actually work in FDM 3D printing. Covers dimensions, materials, print orientation, and practical tips for flexible hinges that survive real-world use.
Learn the best methods for adding functional screw threads to 3D printed parts—from directly printing threads to using heat-set inserts and tapping. Includes design tips, tolerances, and material recommendations.
Master snap-fit joint design for 3D printing. Learn the dimensions, tolerances, and material choices that create reliable clips, latches, and enclosures that actually work.
Moisture is the silent killer of print quality. Learn how humidity damages different filaments, how to recognize wet filament, and proven methods to keep your material dry for perfect prints every time.
Everything you need to know about nylon filament—from PA6 to PA12, print settings to moisture management. Learn when nylon is the right choice for your high-performance parts.
ABS filament offers superior heat resistance and durability for demanding applications. Learn when to choose ABS over PLA or PETG, how to print it successfully, and what safety precautions matter.
Learn the wall thickness rules that separate strong, successful 3D prints from fragile failures. Practical guidelines for different applications, materials, and feature types.
Master the fundamental design principles that separate successful 3D prints from failed ones. Learn about wall thickness, overhangs, tolerances, and more—practical rules that work every time.
Everything you need to know about TPU—the flexible 3D printing material that bends without breaking. Learn when to use it, how it prints, and what makes it ideal for functional rubber-like parts.
A complete guide to PETG filament—what makes it the go-to choice for durable functional parts, outdoor applications, and projects that need more than PLA can offer.
Everything you need to know about PLA filament—from what makes it the most popular 3D printing material to when you should (and shouldn't) use it for your projects.
Not every 3D model is print-ready. Learn the common issues that require modifications before printing—from mesh errors to wall thickness—and how to fix them for successful results.
Layer height is the single setting that most affects how your 3D print looks, how long it takes, and even how strong it is. Here's how to choose the right resolution for your project.
Learn how to orient your 3D prints for maximum strength, best surface finish, and fewer supports. The direction you print matters more than you might think.
Learn the measuring techniques that guarantee your 3D printed parts fit perfectly. From digital calipers to tolerance compensation, get it right the first time.
Understand the hidden structure inside your 3D prints. Learn how layers, infill patterns, and shells work together to create strong, lightweight parts—and why these settings matter for your project.
A plain-English glossary of 3D printing terminology. From filament types to slicer settings, understand the language so you can communicate better with your print service.
A complete walkthrough of the custom 3D printing process—from uploading your file to holding the finished part. Know what happens at each step so there are no surprises.
Discover genuinely useful 3D printed items for your home—from cable organizers to replacement parts. Real solutions that actually make daily life easier.
Learn how to create stunning cosplay armor, helmets, and props with 3D printing. From material selection to finishing techniques, here's everything you need to bring your costume to life.
A practical guide to the best free CAD software for designing 3D printable models. From beginner-friendly tools to professional-grade options, find the right fit for your skill level.
A practical guide to the most common 3D printing file formats. Learn when to use STL, OBJ, or 3MF and why it matters for your print quality.
Everything you need to know before ordering your first 3D print. From choosing the right file to understanding materials and what to expect from the process.
A practical guide to choosing between PLA and PETG for your 3D printing project. Learn when to use each material based on your specific needs.
Common issues that cause 3D prints to fail and how to fix them before you upload. Save time and money by getting your file right the first time.
The hidden costs and frustrations of using large 3D printing services, and why working with a local printer gets you better results faster.
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