Basics Archives

Raspberry Pi Smart Mirror: How to Make a Magic Mirror

A Raspberry Pi smart mirror combines a reflective display with customized features. Read on to learn more about how to build one!

Quit the Skip

Ender 3 (V2/Pro) Extruder Skipping: 7 Tips to Fix It

Ender 3 extruder skipping is a common problem. Read on to learn what causes it and how you can easily fix it.

Print Flexible!

Ender 3 (V2/Pro) Direct Drive: Step-by-Step Guide

Though capable, the Ender 3 (V2/Pro) can have trouble with flexible materials. Learn how to correctly set up direct drive on your Ender 3!

Let's Talk Money!

How Much Does a Metal 3D Printer Cost?

Through impressive, metal 3D printers come at a price. Find out how much a metal 3D printer costs by looking at some popular machines on the market.

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!

Stomp It Out!

3D Printing Elephant’s Foot – Easy Fixes

Elephant's foot is a 3D printing problem that's not often discussed but is often experienced. Learn how to stop it easily!

A Better PLA?

PLA vs PLA+/Plus Filament: The Main Differences

PLA plus is filament that's supposedly a better version of the beloved PLA. But is it? Learn all about this mystery material!

Moral (Carbon) Fiber

The Best Carbon Fiber Filaments of 2022

Carbon fiber filament is a tough material with a nice matte finish. Check out the best carbon fiber filament brands on the market!

Keep Your Pi Fresh

Raspberry Pi 4 Firmware Update: All You Need to Know

Like any computer, single-board computers need to be regularly updated. Read on to learn about the Raspberry Pi 4 firmware update process.

Bringing the Heat

Klipper: PID Tuning – Simply Explained

In some cases, Klipper uses unique G-code from that of other firmware. If you're running Klipper, PID tune your printer using these commands!

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.

So Happy Together!

Blender: How to Group Objects – Simply Explained

Your work can get chaotic if you're looking at too many objects in Blender. Group objects in your design workspace to keep things organized!

Become a Metal Fan

The Best 3D Printer Metal Filaments of 2022

Accommodating specific needs and specific budgets, check out our list of the best 3D printer metal filament brands on the market right now!

3D Model Viewing

Free STL Viewers: Best Sites, Software & Apps in 2022

Check out our top picks of free STL viewers online, software, and apps to open STL files in the browser, on Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.

What's for Dinner?

3D Printed Food: All You Need to Know in 2022

Food is definitely the most delicious application of 3D printing. Let's explore the exciting movement of 3D printed food!

Makin' Things Move

Autodesk Maya 2022: Free Download of the Full Version

Looking for the full version of Maya 2022 to download for free? Check out your options here.

To Adhere or Not to Adhere

Resin Print Not Sticking to Build Plate: 6 Simple Fixes

When your resin prints are not sticking to the build plate, don't give up hope! Check out these six solutions for perfect adhesion!

SLA 3DP

The 8 Best Resin Printer Slicer Software of 2022

Slicing models for resin 3D printing has a few extra considerations. Check out our picks for the best resin slicer software. Most are free.

Surface Success

3D Printer Bed Adhesion: All You Need to Know

Getting 3D printed objects to stick to the build plate isn't always easy. Read on to learn more about 3D printer bed adhesion!

Pushing for the Answer

Direct Drive vs Bowden Extruder: The Differences

Long discussions have been had about whether direct extrusion is actually better. Learn about direct drive vs. Bowden extruder setups!