Basics Archives

3D Printer Clogged Nozzle: How to Perform a Cold Pull

Clogged nozzles are a common issue in FDM 3D printers. Explore this guide discussing the easiest fix: The 3D printer cold pull method.

Support Is All You Need

3D Printing Supports: 3 Easy Steps to Success

3D printing supports is often essential when printing a difficult model. Let's go over 3D printing support types and settings for success!

I Am STL Learning

G-code to STL: How to Convert G-code Back to STL

Converting an STL to G-code can be done easily, but converting from G-code to STL can be quite a challenge. Read on to learn how to do it!

Straight to the Core

CoreXY 3D Printer: Why It Makes a Difference

The CoreXY 3D printer design offers advantages over other 3D printer designs, but there are also downsides. Let's take a closer look at them.

No Slice, Just Level

Best Ender 3 (Pro/V2) Bed Leveling G-code

Leveling G-code can be used to aid and test the bed leveling process. Read on for some great Ender 3 (Pro/V2) bed leveling G-code!

Hollywood Comes to 3D Printing

Best 3D Printer Cameras to Monitor Your 3D Prints

Most of us don't need to watch the entirety of a 3D print. Read on to learn our picks for the best 3D printer-compatible cameras!

Stepping Back

3D Printer Retraction Speed – Simply Explained

We explore 3D printer retraction speed, why retraction is employed, and how retraction settings are tweaked to produce the perfect print.

To Buy or to not to Buy

Autodesk Inventor Free Download: Is There a Full Free Version?

Looking for "Autodesk Inventor free download" and don't want to commit to buy the full version of the popular CAD software? Here are the best answers to the question: Is there a free full version?

Big Sur, Big Designs

Best Free CAD Software for Mac in 2021

There's never been a better time to find free CAD software for Mac. Discover tools for everything, from sculpting to parametric modeling!

Treating Print Rash

3D Print Zits & Blobs: How to Prevent / Avoid Them

Everyone sees 3D print zits and blobs, but no one likes to talk about it. Learn how to prevent them, and how to get rid of them!

Catch That Filament Break

Ender 3 (Pro/V2) Filament Sensor Upgrade: 3 Easy Steps

Though mighty, the Ender 3s don't have filament runout detection. Learn how to install two types of filament sensors on your Ender 3.

Back to Creality

Creality V4.2.7 Silent Board: All You Need to Know

Creality has come out with an exciting new V4.2.7 mainboard. Read on to learn about the new Creality silent board and its features!

Firmware Plus More

Ender 5 Plus Firmware: What to Download & Where?

If you're tired of your Ender 5 Plus firmware, read on to learn all about a few great options and where to get them!

Bumps, Oozes, and Ringing Begone!

3D Printing Tips: How to Improve 3D Print Quality

A great 3D print rewards you for investing your time and money. Check out these simple 3D printing tips to improve the quality of your 3D prints!

Access the Endernet

Ender 3 (Pro/V2) Wi-Fi Support: How to Upgrade

The stock Ender 3 relies on a MicroSD card to print parts, but Wi-Fi can change that. Read on to learn all the Ender 3 Wi-Fi options!

No Tumble Drying

Filament Dryer – A Simple Guide

With an FDM 3D printer, you'll likely need to dry out your filament from time to time. Check out our simple guide to filament dryers.

Add Extra Pluses

Best Creality Ender 5 Plus Upgrades & Mods in 2021

Although a community favorite, the Ender 5 Plus has room for improvement. Read on for a breakdown of the best Ender 5 Plus upgrades and mods.

Save Your Prints from Sinking

3D Printing Raft: When You Should Use It?

Having problems with warping or bed adhesion? There's a solution! Learn what a 3D printing raft is and when and how to use it.

Hot Beds for Cool Prints

3D Printer Heated Bed – The Advantages

3D printer heated beds can improve the quality of your prints. Read on to learn how they work and how to get the best from them!

Eight-Legged Pi Power

Raspberry Pi as a 3D Printer Controller: How to Set It Up

With a Raspberry Pi, control your 3D printer easily from anywhere. Read on to learn how to set up OctoPrint and get started!