Basics Archives

DIY 3D Printer: How to Build Your Own 3D Printer

Building your own 3D printer is fun, though it does requires time. Read on to learn how to build a 3D printer from a kit or from scratch.

Makers to the Rescue!

3D Printer Filament Recycler: All You Need to Know

Planet Earth is choking on plastic, and makers must do their part to help. Check out these 3D printer filament recycler options!

Replacing Old with New

Ender 3 (Pro) Firmware Update: How to Install Marlin

Updating your Ender 3 or Pro with Marlin firmware can enhance performance, but the process can be tricky. Read on to learn how to do it!

Tabula 3D Rasa

Blender for iPad: The Best Alternatives of 2022

As much as you love Blender, an iPad mobile app is not in the cards. Read on to learn about a few Blender alternatives that work on iPads!

Monterey Madness

The Best Free CAD Software for Mac in 2023

It's never been easier to find free CAD software for Mac. Discover tools for everything, from sculpting to parametric 3D modeling!

Shifting Gears

3D Printer Layer Shifting: 6 Simple Solutions

Wondering what causes layer shifting in 3D printing? Check out six easy tips and tricks to prevent a 3D print layer shift!

The Newest Wares

Klipper vs Marlin: The Main Differences

When choosing 3D printer firmware, you might be looking at Klipper vs. Marlin. Check out the differences and see what suits your setup!

A Nicer Slicer

Cura Settings Decoded – An Ultimaker Cura Tutorial

Discover the hidden features of the Cura slicer software. We'll show you how to take your 3D printing to the next level for perfect prints!

Digitalize Your World

Kinect as a 3D Scanner: An Easy Beginner’s Tutorial

Wondering if the Kinect can be used as a 3D scanner? It (s)can! Learn how to build your own Kinect 3D scanner without breaking the bank.

Printing Pronto

Pronterface: How to Download, Install & Set It Up

Want more control of your printer? Read along as we download and install Pronterface. You'll be giving immediate commands in no time!

A Pre-First Layer

3D Printing Raft vs Brim vs Skirt: The Differences

Raft vs. brim vs. skirt: All three features are unique and address different problems. Check out this simple guide to know which to choose.

Good Gets Better

The Top 20 OctoPrint Plug-ins of 2022

OctoPrint is a powerful tool, but adding a cherry on top makes it even better. Check out our selection of the best OctoPrint plug-ins around!

Need for Speed

The Best 3D Print Speed Settings for PLA & More

Tuning 3D print speed can be tricky. Learn how to find the perfect print speed settings for PLA and more materials!

Different Perspectives

Blender: How to Move the Camera – Simply Explained

In Blender, moving the camera and moving the viewport are simple tasks once you know how. Here's how to find your way around.

Printing on Another Level

3D Printer Z Offset: Simply Explained

If you're struggling to get your 3D prints to stick or want to print on top of an existing model, Z offset is the answer. Learn more!

Bed-er Get Ready!

How to Clean Your 3D Printer Bed – 3 Easy Ways

Proper 3D printer bed cleaning is essential for successful prints. Learn three easy ways to clean your 3D printer bed!

Superlative Supports

PrusaSlicer Support Settings & Tree Support: The Basics

PrusaSlicer gives users a lot of control over their prints. Read on to get the most out of PrusaSlicer support settings, even tree supports!

Back to School

3D Printing for Beginners: How to Get Started with FDM

Getting started with 3D printing doesn't have to be intimidating. Read on to check out our simple guide to 3D printing for beginners!

Ultimate Ender Control

How to Set Up OctoPrint for Your Ender 3 (V2/Pro)

The Ender 3 and OctoPrint are a match made in heaven. Learn how to set up OctoPrint for the Ender 3 (V2/Pro) in 4 simple steps!

How Hot Is Too Hot?

How to Use a Temp Tower in Cura – Simply Explained

When you're printing a temp tower, Cura has its advantages. Read on to improve your 3D print and save on precious filament!