Basics

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

STEP by STEP

STEP to STL: How to Convert STEP Files to STL

CAD lets you construct complex 3D models that can later be 3D printed. Find out how to bring these models to life by converting STEP to STL.

Space: The 3-Dimensional Frontier

3D Printer Axis: The Basics – Simply Explained

A 3D object needs three axes to be represented. Learn about the 3D printer axis system, how it works, and what aids its movement.

Will It Blender?

Blender 3D Printing Tutorial

Check out our easy-to-follow Blender 3D printing tutorial to learn step-by-step how to prepare your 3D models for 3D printing.

Cut to the Chase

Laser Cutting Metal: The Basics – Simply Explained

Laser cutting metal is becoming more and more accessible. Check out this simple guide to design your first laser cut metal part.

Mechanical Wonders

3D Printers Explained: Delta, Cartesian, Polar, Scara

Cartesian vs Delta vs Polar vs Scara: FDM 3D printers come in many shapes and sizes. Learn to tell the differences and advantages.

Enclosure Sweet Enclosure

Prusa i3 MK3S Enclosure – The Easiest Ways to Build or Buy One

Looking for an enclosure for your Prusa printer? Check out the easiest solutions to build or buy an Original Prusa i3 MK3S enclosure.

Failure Follows Function

15 Epic 3D Printing Fails (and Why They Failed)

Need a confidence boost? Check out these epic 3D printing fails that'll make you laugh, cry, and wish your printer could apologize.

Easy as ASA

ASA Filament: The Basics & Best Brands

Want to try ASA filament? Check out this simple guide to learn about the basics, benefits, uses, and best brands.

3D printing basics

What software do I need for 3D printing?

Basically, there is one software you do need: that is a slicing software. Optionally, you may want to use a 3D modeling software.

Slice & Dice

Creality Slicer: What’s the Best Slicer for Creality 3D Printers?

Have a Creality but don't know which slicer software to use? Check out our top picks of the best slicers for Creality 3D printers.

Machine See, Machine Do

G-Code Generator: All You Need to Know

G-code generators create the detailed machine instructions necessary to create a part, either in 3D printing or CNC machining. Learn more about what a G-code generator is and how it works.

From Blender to Slicer

Blender & STL Files: How to Make 3D Printables

Want to make and export 3D printable STL files with Blender? Check out this simple guide to learn how to do it!

Building Skills

3D Modeling for 3D Printing: The Main Considerations

When 3D modeling for 3D printing, your choices should account for the print process. Let's review some best practices!

Articulations Abound!

How to 3D Print Joints – Simply Explained

3D printed joints may seem intimidating, but they don't need to be hard. Learn how to 3D print joints with this simple guide!

Wavefront OBJect

OBJ File Format – Simply Explained

The OBJ file format and 3D printing go hand in hand. Find out all you need to know about OBJ file format for CAD and 3D printing in this guide.

Pixels, Pixels Everywhere

LCD vs DLP 3D Printing: The Differences

Octo-Pi, Septa-Pi, Hexa-Pi, and Friends

6 Best OctoPrint Alternatives

The More the Merrier

Multi-Material 3D Printing Guide

Solid Viewers that Work(s)

5 Best Free SolidWorks Viewers

Free SolidWorks viewers are not created equal. Dive into this extremely detailed list of the best free Solidworks viewers out there!

Free Software for Pros

Download Maya For Free And Other Free Alternatives

Maya ranks among the most popular 3D modeling software solutions for visual effects. Here is how you can download Maya for free. In addition, you could also try free 3d modeling software alternatives.