3D Design & Printing

What You Will Learn

• 3D printing fundamentals: FDM, SLA, and other additive manufacturing technologies
• Design for 3D printing: constraints, tolerances, and optimization techniques
• Material selection: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and engineering filaments
• Slicing and print preparation with industry-standard tools
• Print quality optimization: layer height, infill, support strategies
• Post-processing techniques: sanding, painting, assembly, and finishing
• Functional parts: designing for strength, durability, and fit
• Troubleshooting common issues and maintaining your printer

Who This Is For

• Makers and hobbyists looking to level up their 3D printing skills
• Engineers who need to rapidly prototype functional parts
• Product designers creating physical prototypes from CAD models
• Students learning additive manufacturing workflows
• Anyone who owns or wants to own a 3D printer and use it effectively

Course Syllabus

Comprehensive hands-on training from beginner to advanced techniques.

Module 1: 3D Printing Fundamentals

Understanding different 3D printing technologies, printer anatomy, and how FDM works

Module 2: Design for Additive Manufacturing

CAD modeling with 3D printing in mind: overhangs, bridges, wall thickness, and tolerances

Module 3: Materials & Properties

Choosing the right filament for your application, understanding material properties and limitations

Module 4: Slicing & Print Setup

Mastering slicing software (Cura, PrusaSlicer), optimal settings, and troubleshooting failed prints

Module 5: Advanced Techniques

Multi-material printing, variable layer height, custom supports, and advanced infill patterns

Module 6: Post-Processing & Finishing

Sanding, vapor smoothing, painting, assembly techniques, and creating production-ready parts

Module 7: Real-World Projects

Design and print functional parts: enclosures, mechanical components, and custom fixtures