About
3D printing is a rapid prototyping technology for fabricating physical objects from digital models. If that's not exciting enough, the process is fast, cheap, and beginner-friendly. StudioLab supports a popular kind of 3D printing technique called fused deposition modeling (FDM). All services and materials are free of charge.
You must attend a training before you can use StudioLab's 3D printers. During the one hour session you'll learn more about our machines, the basics of printing, and how to create and prepare files. You'll then be certified to use the Ender 3 Pro and Statasys uPrint whenever you want.
PLA Printing with Ender 3 Pro
If you're a novice just starting out or an expert looking to push the limits, we recommend using PLA on our Creality Ender 3 Pro printers. PLA is easy to work with and comes in a variety of colors making it the material of choice for many projects.
- Three machines available
- For decorative prints
- Must take training to use
- No reservations
- Ability to change print profile settings
ABS Printing with Stratasys uPrint
Fun fact: ABS is the kind of plastic used in Lego bricks. It requires higher printing temperatures to create stronger prints for applications in which a PLA part might normally break. StudioLab uses a Stratasys uPrint SE for ABS printing.
- One machine available
- For structural prints
- Must take training to use
- Submit your model in-person for approval
- Availability limited by print bed space
- Prints run overnight and complete within 48 hours
3Doodler Pen for Doodling
The 3Doodler is for anyone who prefers analog methods when it comes to making things. It may be marketed as a toy, but this hasn't stopped a few dedicated individuals from doing incredible work with the tool.
- For decorative prints
- Training not required
- No reservations
3D Print-by-Mail for Everything Else
When your project goes beyond the bounds of our in-house tech, StudioLab will find a way to get the job done. We'll consult you on the details of your project and then track down an online vendor to produce your print. No training required.
Software
There is an overwhelming number of programs out there for creating 3D models. StudioLab technicians have had heated discussions about which of these is the best for beginners. Our consensus is that different programs work for different people. We encourage everyone to find what works best for them. Here are a few of our favorites that you'll find installed on the lab computers.
| Program | Type |
|---|---|
| Blender | Wireframe Modeling |
| Asset Forge | Kit Bashing |
| Creo | Solid Modeling |
| Fusion 360 | Solid Modeling |
| Tinkercad | Solid Modeling |
| OpenSCAD | Solid Modeling via Scripting |
| FreeCAD | Surface Modeling |
| Inventor | Surface Modeling |
| Meshmixer | STL Modification and Repair |
| MeshLab | STL Modification and Repair |
| MagicaVoxel | 3D Pixel Sculpting |