What is 3d printing and how does it work at BVC?
Answer
The Library has a 3D printer available for students and staff to try out! If you're interested in making a 3d print, please check out our:
What is 3d printing?
3d printing is a unique combination of art, design, and technology.
3d printing works very similarly to a regular printer. Instead of ink, a 3d printer uses very thin layers of plastic (or other material). These layers are called "slices" - as the printer head moves upward, it keeps adding more slices of material, until you have your full 3d object. A full object may be made up of hundreds or thousands of individual layers of printed plastic!
3d printers require a special type of 3d model or design to work. This is the blueprint that tells the printer what to do. Most people start off by finding a premade digital design that has already been created and is ready for printing. Some of these designs are for fun - small toys, gadgets, and trinkets to play with and display. Others are more practical - things like cell phone holders, cup brackets, and plant holders. If you'd like to try 3d printing, check out:
- Thingiverse - https://www.thingiverse.com
- Youmagine - https://www.youmagine.com/
As you learn more, you might want to try creating your own digital designs to print. One of the benefits of 3d printing is that you can create custom designs that meet a very specific need or interest you have. If you're interested in designing your own 3d model, try:
- Tinkercad - https://www.tinkercad.com/
For more information
Please contact the Learner Technology Advisor in the Library if you have questions or want more information about 3d printing.