Get Started - Beginner Projects
Hi,
I'm new to the forum and 3d printing in general - I've had a look at the Prusa Slicer tool and it looks really interesting but also a little complicated for a beginner.
I was just wondering if anyone can point me to any beginner projects or walkthroughs that can teach you how to build models to get started?
Many thanks in advance!
RE: Get Started - Beginner Projects
I assume that you have printed test prints like the frog and the boat and they were OK.
Just go thru Printables, find a few things you like and download them.
You will need to learn to use Prusaslicer or something similar.
Just RTFM and do it.
...but there re a lot of bad, difficult to print, designs on Printables these days so before downloading check there are pictures of actual printed parts and not just renders.
Look around the house, there are bound to be a few things to repair or improve that need only a simple plastic shape ... something you could measure and easily envisage:
DON'T try to use PrusaSlicer as a design tool, the CAD elements are meant to be used as a last stopgap if a downloaded file needs tweaking. treat it as just a slicer.
So which tool should you use for your first projects?
It rather depends on your mindset; download FreeCAD and OpenSCAD: https://www.freecad.org/ https://openscad.org/
They represent the two main design paths 'though eventually you may choose something different. Try to design your domestic project in both, export a .STL file, import into slicer and, using the presets, try to slice and print it.
A couple of hints: One of the first prints used to illustrate the value of the RepRap 3D printer project was a simple coat-hook. The first print for many early kit builders was always a shot-glass from which to toast a successful build.
Start simple and gradually elaborate. You may be surprised how far you will get in a few months.
Cheerio,
RE: Get Started - Beginner Projects
As Diem said, you want to learn CAD software to design things. There are some tutorials on TinkerCAD or OnShape ( both free for hobby projects and can be used via web browser).
When you finally have a model then you can export it and then import to PrusaSlicer to prepare it for 3D printing - https://help.prusa3d.com/category/prusaslicer_204 shows you how to use it so you can prepare files to be used with w printer directly.
See my GitHub and printables.com for some 3d stuff that you may like.
RE: Get Started - Beginner Projects
Welcome to the world of 3D printing! It's fantastic that you're diving in with the PrusaSlicer, a powerful tool that can seem a bit overwhelming at first. But with the right resources and practice, you'll quickly get the hang of it. Here are some guidelines and tips for getting started, especially if you're new to both the forum and 3D printing in general.
1. Understand the Basics of 3D Printing
Before diving into projects, it's helpful to get familiar with the core concepts:
Filament types (PLA, ABS, PETG, etc.)Bed leveling and ensuring proper adhesionPrinter settings (temperature, layer height, infill percentage)Slicing software like PrusaSlicer, which turns 3D models into printable files.
YouTube and other online platforms have many beginner-friendly videos explaining these fundamentals.