3D Printing 101
Details
Curious about how digital designs become real, hold-in-your-hand objects? 3D Printing 101 is your beginner-friendly launchpad into the world of making, tinkering, and techy creativity.
What to Expect
This hands-on workshop is designed for complete beginners ages 8 and up. Guided by an experienced makerspace instructor, you’ll walk step by step through the full journey from idea to finished 3D-printed object.
You’ll get a clear, jargon-free overview of how 3D printers work, what makes them tick, and why they’re such a big deal for artists, engineers, gamers, crafters, teachers, and curious hobbyists.
Learn the Basics of 3D Printing
How 3D Printers Work: See the moving parts in action and understand how layers of melted filament stack up to form a solid object.
Preparing and Sending Files: Learn what a printable file actually is, how it’s sliced, and how to send it to the printer without the mystery.
Monitoring Your Prints: Discover how to keep your project on track, spot common problems early, and troubleshoot the classic mishaps every maker encounters.
Choosing the Right Materials: Get introduced to popular filament types like PLA and PETG, their strengths and limitations, and how to choose what works best for your project.
Design Your Own 3D Creations
Once you understand the printer, it’s time to design! You’ll explore beginner-friendly CAD tools that make 3D modeling approachable, even if you’ve never drawn more than a stick figure.
Common CAD Platforms: Try out user-friendly software you can download and use at home for free or low cost.
Growing Your CAD Skills: Get a curated set of resources, tutorials, and communities that will help you keep learning long after the workshop ends.
Creating Your First Print File: Learn how to export your model into a format a 3D printer understands so you can turn your idea into something real.
Tip: Bring your own laptop if you’d like to follow along and start building your own design on the spot.
Printing Options and Next Steps
After designing, you’ll explore different ways to actually get your project printed.
Print Your Classroom Creations: See how your test designs look when they come off the printer and head home with new knowledge and inspiration.
Discover Local Printing Resources: Learn where you can get future projects printed, from makerspaces to community resources and beyond.
Keep Printing with Memberships and Day Passes: Find out how to return for more print time, experiment with new ideas, and keep leveling up your maker skills.
Who This is For
Ages 8 and up are welcome, making this a fun family activity, a great parent–child project, or a perfect starting point if you’re an adult who’s always wanted to try 3D printing but didn’t know where to begin.
No prior experience with tech, coding, or design is required—just curiosity and a willingness to experiment.
Space is limited to keep the workshop personal and engaging, so snag your spot, bring your questions, and get ready to step into the world of 3D printing with hands-on guidance and lots of creative possibilities.