3D printing is when 3D solid objects are made from a model on a computer. 3D printing is done by building up the object layer by layer. Usually, 3D printers use plastic, because it is easier to use and cheaper. Some 3D printers can 3D print with other materials, like metals and ceramics.  At St. Michael's we do all of our 3D printing with PLA plastic (Poly Lactic Acid).

Getting Started:

1. What is a 3D printer.  What is filament?  How does it work?
2. Add the TinkerCAD link as a bookmark to your chrome browser.  The URL is:  https://www.tinkercad.com
3.  Create a new user account.  8^th grade students will use their SMS email address…[email protected]
4. Spider drone a classic case in 3D printer design.
5. How does it work – STL file conversion to 3D printer language – FlashForge – FlashPrint.  Thumbdrive.
6.  Once logged in, click on Learn – Starters to begin learning how to use TinkerCAD.  Work through Place it, View it, Move it, Rotate it, Size it up, Group it, and Align it.
7. Check out the Gallery to see what everyone is creating.
8. Embrace the “design on paper first” philosophy.