A 3D-printer is a versatile tool that will activate your imagination and help you express yourself in new, exciting ways.
The Library's Prusa i3 MK3S+ is one of the leading 3D printers in the world, designed for newcomers and professionals alike.
This guide will help you learn how to use this tool, and set you on the path to becoming a printer!
The path to printing your 3D design is as follows:
conception (come up with an idea) > design object > transfer file into a G-code > put file on a SD Card > insert SD Card into printer > print
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Book a consultation with Tim Kail by emailing ftkail@sarahlawrence.edu. Tim's office with the Printer is located behind the circulation desk. When you meet with him you will discuss your print and Tim will give you a brief introduction to the Prusa Printer.
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Next, you'll need to design your object. To do this, we recommend the free tool Tinkercad. Visit www.tinkercad.com and create a profile.
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Visit our Tinkercad page in this libguide for a detailed tutorial on how to create objects.
When you've finished designing your object, arrange another visit with Tim Kail to print your object.
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In Tim's office, you will access your Tinkercad profile on the Mac setup alongside the 3D Printer.
Open a browser and sign in to your Tinkercad profile.
Export your project as a .stl file. It should appear in the downloads folder of the Mac. The downloads folder should be located on the bottom right of your screen, between the dock and the trash.
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Open Prusa Slicer (located in the dock).
Drag your .stl file onto the plate in Prusa Slicer. Your object should appear on the plate. (Note that if you want to print multiple objects at a time you need to drag the .stl file onto the plate again. Arrange the objects on the plate evenly)
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Click "Slice now" on the bottom right.
There will then be information about how long your print will take. If you're ready to print, click Export G-code.
Give your file a name you'll recognize and save it to the desktop.
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Insert a SD Card into the SD Card slot on the Mac (located on the back right).
Move your GCode file from the desktop onto the SD Card.
Eject the SD Card from the Mac.
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Insert the SD Card (front facing away from you) into the slot on the Prusa LCD screen.
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Now, search for your file by scrolling down (use the circular knob) and selecting "Print from SD". Click into the knob when you're ready to make a selection.
Now, choose your print - you should recognize the file name.
Click into the knob again, and the printer should start printing (note that it may take time for it to warm to the required temperature before printing).
Monitor your print to ensure it prints correctly. If there are any problems alert Tim Kail.
Email: fkail@sarahlawrence.edu
Phone: 914-323-6110
Book a consultation to learn more about the 3D-Printer. Consultations take place in Tim's office right behind the information desk.
