For those who have just recently taken up 3D printing, it has a steep learning curve. You don’t perfect a craft overnight, which is part of the appeal of learning something new, right? Difficult things aren’t easy, but it’s worth it when you see the things you can create with a 3D printer. Things that can enhance your hobbies, customise your existing objects to your preference, and generally make your life better! With the holiday break coming up, now’s the time to sharpen your 3D printing skills with these 3 tips!
1. Challenge yourself with different 3D printing challenges and competitions
Your 3D printing skills can only improve with practice. Make sure you’re getting your money’s worth from buying a 3D printer by printing more. You can find free designs over at Thingiverse, Cults3D, MyMiniFactory, and various 3D printing forums. You can also join 3D printing challenges and competitions. You can find a list of 3D printing competitions that you can join here.
If you’re looking for inspiration to 3D print, here are some 3D printing ideas:
2020 3D-Printed Holiday Decorations to Spread the Cheer
How to 3D Print Yourself from Photos
3D Printing Ideas for Cosplayers
2. Engage with the 3D printing community
Sometimes it helps to mingle and commiserate about your 3D printing wins and struggles with other hobbyists and professionals. There is also plenty to learn about their experiences, so if there’s anything you’re struggling with, you can count on them to help you out.
3. Customise your everyday things
Have you ever wanted to improve your things at home? Perhaps you find your controllers too small for your stubby thumbs? Or you hate how the dust falls to the floor when you’re power drilling? Little inconveniences about everyday things can now be fixed with 3D printing. You can now print a controller modification to accommodate your thumbs when video-gaming or a collector to gather the dust that falls off from your power drill.
3D printers can also help you save. Instead of buying ornaments, home decor, tools, or accessories, you can print them instead! Yes, even car components and accessories. Check out our 3D printing ideas for Car Parts & Accessories.
4. Experiment with different filaments
As a beginner, you’re probably used to printing with PLA due to its versatility and ease of printing. You’ve also probably heard that there are filaments that are notoriously difficult to print with, like ABS, nylon, polypropylene, and carbon fiber. This shouldn’t scare you off from them. You can learn a lot from them, and can help you create prints that you wouldn’t be able to with PLA. If you need further convincing, here’s something to change your mind: difficult filaments are usually great for creating functional 3D prints.
Prepare yourself for more adventurous 3D printing projects in 2021!
Challenge yourself to be a 3D printing pro in 2021 with these tips to improve your 3D printing skills! You can also stock up on filaments with our great filament deals throughout December and January! To keep up to date with the latest deals sign up to our newsletter here.