Basics

Want to learn something new? Check out our helpful tutorials, guides, and how-tos for 3D printing, CAD, CNC, laser cutting and more.

Inspecting the Path

G-Code Viewer/Simulator: Best Tools to Simulate 3D Printing

Looking for a G-code viewer or G-code simulator? Check out our selection of the best 3D printing software that make G-code viewing and simulation possible.

Go Glass

3D Printer Glass Bed: What to Consider & Which to Buy

The ideal build plate depends on the materials you are printing. Learn about benefits of a 3D printer glass bed and what to look for when shopping for your own.

Nature's Calling

Wood Filament: A Simple Guide to Wood PLA

Interested in wood filament for 3D printing? Learn exactly what it is and have a look at some of the most popular wood PLA filaments on the market!

Bonding Time

Best Glue for ABS, PLA, PETG & Nylon Plastics

Sometimes, there's no way around bonding 3D printed parts. Use this simple guide to find the best glue for ABS, PLA, PETG and nylon plastics.

Keeping It Tolerable

How to Test and Improve Your 3D Printer’s Tolerances

Whether it's CNC milling, bagging chips, or 3D printing, the machines involved have slight inconsistencies, producing parts of differing tolerances. Here, we'll dive into what tolerances are, and why they're important for 3D printing.

How to Build a 3D Printer from Scratch

3D Printer Blueprints – 3 Best DIY 3D Printer Plans

Looking for 3D printer blueprints to build a RepRap 3D printer from scratch (not from a kit)? Check out the 3 best DIY 3D printer plans to start with.

Slice and Dice

Slic3r vs Cura: The Differences – Simply Explained

Slic3r or Cura? That's the question! We compare the top two open source slicers, focusing on their best features. Find out which is best for you.

CAD Giants

SolidWorks vs Creo: CAD Software Compared

The choice comes down to your needs and how steep of a learning curve you want. SolidWorks vs. Creo: Discover the differences.

Building on the Basics

3D Printer Bed – How to Choose the Right Build Plate

Looking to get a new build plate, but can't decide what kind to buy? Don't worry, we've compiled this helpful article to help you make your decision!

Dream Big, Print Big

How to 3D Print Parts Larger Than Your 3D Printer

Printing gigantic or life-sized models in one go is almost impossible for most 3D printers. But with these techniques, you can print them no matter how big or small your 3D printer is.

The Clear Winner

Transparent/Clear PLA Filament: A Simple Guide

Want to learn all about transparent PLA and clear PLA filaments? Check out this simple guide for the basics, pro, cons, uses, and the best filaments.

Separation Satisfaction Guaranteed

Aluminum CNC Machine: Best CNC Routers for Aluminum

So you want cut alimiunum? CNC machines made it much easier. Checkout our selection of the best desktop CNC routers for aluminum.

E-step Aside

What Is E-step Calibration? – Simply Explained

Don't be confused by E-step calibration. Read on to learn exactly what it is and how calibration of your printer's E-steps works!

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.

Achieve Real Detail

5 SLA Printing Tips & Tricks for Great Resin 3D Prints

Unlike thermoplastic filament printers, which typically use a 0.4-mm nozzle, a resin 3D SLA printer may have a laser spot size of 140 microns. The result? The smoothest and most precise 3D prints you've ever seen, if you know what you're doing...