3D printing, (also known in this case as FDM 3D printing), is a process of creating 3D objects from digital designs. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that involve removing material from a block (like carving from wood or milling metal), 3D printing builds objects layer by layer using various materials such as plastics, metals, or even concrete! (Here, we only use plastic, though).
Imagine a 3D printer like a high-tech printer that doesn't just print on paper but builds physical objects. It works by taking a digital model called a .stl file that can be converted by a "slicer" to the instructions for the machine, a .gcode file. This tells the printer what to do as it prints your object up layer by layer. This process of converting a .stl file to a .gcode file is done by me, so don't worry about having to do that yourself.
This technology opens up a world of possibilities, enabling the creation of anything from simple toys to household items. Whether you're a hobbyist, an engineer, a designer, or even just a regular person, 3D printing offers a versatile and innovative way to bring ideas to life.
Here you can explore the potential of 3D printing and unleash your creativity!