Ask HN: How did you learn about 3D printing? | Hacker News Reader

Ask HN: How did you learn about 3D printing?

3 pointstnorthcutt6 comments

I'm seriously considering getting a 3d printer, mostly for fun & educational projects with my 9 year old son (and by myself). I'm curious what resources people have found the most useful that aren't of the "for dummies" variety.

Things like what software to use for designing parts, suggested projects, tips for good prints, etc. etc.

View on HN

I basically used YouTube videos, forums (https://www.3dhubs.com/knowledge-base/how-design-snap-fit-jo...), and the instructions from the 3D printer's company. I have this one in my lab: https://www.flashforge.com/product-detail/4. I started with something very simple and only one filament. Then, did something more complex with two filaments. I have some videos here: https://randyfespinal.wixsite.com/randyespinalcabrera/3d-pri... If you are familiar with Fusion 360 or any CAD software, that helps a lot. I love fusion 360.

Thank you! I'm not at all familiar with CAD software or the like so I suspect that'll be the biggest hurdle.

Is there a good alternative to Fusion 360 that's more of a hobby price point?

Yes, the CAD part is the first step. Fusion 360 has a version that you can use for free for one year (https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/personal). Fusion is very user-friendly. Depending on your 3D printer, you can 3D print a picture (2D to 3D). Mine has that option (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vic6PkCgYk8), so you basically can use Microsoft Word or any program to make your design. The only issue could be the dimensions, but if it is for fun then it is OK. Also, look for any picture and 3D print it.

I found it surprisingly accessible. there are a ton of great resources on YouTube, reddit is excellent for advice on tuning and troubleshooting. Thingiverse has too many great models, often with detailed advice and specs for printing.

Tinkercad is a very beginner friendly design app. As someone rolling with a -2 to visual acuity I still managed to work it out.

Heaps of fun to work with your kids, my favourite project has been this clothes rack and hangers for my daughter's Sylvania families https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3345575

By binge-watching the wonderful Maker's Muse: https://www.youtube.com/makersmuse

Oh, and other advice is just buy a big roll of filament and experiment - I ran lots of test cubes with different settings to zone in on what worked and understand the relationship between different attributes.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com