5 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started 3D Printing
Most makers agree that 3D Printing is a fun and exciting hobby. With the right 3D printer, and some ingenuity, you can craft all manner of fun creations. More than that, 3D printing can even allow you the opportunity to make functional prints that will help complete many household projects.
The only downside to the hobby is the learning curve. But fear not! If you're looking for a way to make your entry into the world of 3D printing a little smoother, I've got you covered.
This list of tips is what I wish someone had told me before I started getting serious with 3D printing.
1. Your First 3D Printer Should Be Easy to Use
In fact, it's almost better to buy a 3D printer that is easy to use than it is to buy something that allows you to overcomplicate the process. That's because, until you get several prints under your belt, you probably shouldn't be fiddling with settings or adjusting mechanical components early on. Instead, you'll want to download your models so you can get to printing.
When it comes to printers that are easy to use, you'll want a few key features. For example, some sort of auto-leveling capability, and simple, yet powerful 3D printing software.
We're rather partial to our AnkerMake M series printers. M5 and M5C not only offer the powerful 3D printing software, AnkerMake Studio, but they are affordably priced and deliver exceptional print quality. Plus, right now, you can get AnkerMake M5, our top-of-the-line FDM printer, for only $399.
2. Free 3D Printing Software Defaults Can Give Great Results
There comes a point in every maker's journey where they suddenly want to tweak the quality of their prints. Maybe they feel guilty about using the default settings, or perhaps they hope to minimize layer lines. Or maybe they just like to tinker to get the best possible performance out of their printer.
However, if you're a beginner, you'll want to think twice before changing up your printer's software settings. That's beacuse it's likely that the default settings of your 3D printing software were put together by a team of experienced 3D printing professionals.
That's not to say that you should never change your printer's settings. But when you're first starting out, printing quality models consistently will keep you from getting frustrated with the hobby.
3. Using Glue Sticks or Bed Adhesive Isn't Cheating
There are a number of 3D printing purists on places like Reddit, who will chide folks for using glue sticks or bed adhesive to make their prints stick. The common philosophy is that if you have your settings dialed in properly, then you won't need adhesives to keep your models from turning into spaghetti.
While that's kind of true, there aren't really any issues with using some sort of bed adhesive, save for maybe having to do a little more cleaning. In fact, some filaments, such as ABS, require the use of adhesive to prevent prints from warping during cooldown.
The bottom line here is: If a glue stick works, then it's perfectly fine for you to use it. Regardless of what anyone else says.
4. The Quality of Your 3D Printing Filament Matters
Even if your printer is the absolute best on the market, poor-quality filament can cause your prints to turn out looking bad. Variances in filament thickness and moisture content can create all sorts of printing woes. That includes poor printed surface quality, poor adhesion, and improper print dimensions.
To prevent these problems, make sure your filament is high quality. If you need filament specifically for an AnkerMake 3D printer, it's recommended that you purchase AnkerMake filament, as it's been specially designed to work with our printers. Plus, it frequently goes on sale.
5. Some 3D-Printed Projects Require Post-Processing
If you're considering a 3D printer for making wearables like cosplay masks or armor, then you should prepare yourself for some additional post-processing. That means sanding, painting, and deburring in many cases.
Often, beginners think that they can 3D print things like an entire Iron Man suit, and it will be immediately ready for the next local comic convention. But that isn't always the case. 3D-printed cosplay items will only look great if you perform the necessary post-processing.
Learning to Love 3D Printing
Like many hobbies, 3D printing typically takes a significant amount of time and effort to achieve the best results. And much of the hobby is learned via a series of trial-and-error experiments. If you keep that in mind, as well as these tips, then you'll be a 3D printing pro in no time.