Basics Archives

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!

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 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!

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!

Blending with Unity

Blender to Unity: How to Export/Import Models

Learn how to move files from Blender to Unity, and see why these two awesome programs complement each other so well!

Back to Basics

AutoCAD 2023 Tutorial for Beginners: 6 Steps to Success

Just what you've been waiting for: an AutoCAD tutorial for beginners! Learn how to use AutoCAD in six straightforward steps.

Retro Classics Never Die

The Best Raspberry Pi Emulators of 2022

Your Raspberry Pi is capable of many things, including emulating a gaming console. Check out our list of the best Raspberry Pi emulators!

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.

Filling in the Gaps

3D Printer Under-Extrusion: 8 Simple Solutions

Plagued by 3D printer under-extrusion and don't know how to get rid of it? Check out this guide for some simple solutions.

A Heated Discussion

The Best 3D Printing Temperatures for PLA, TPU, ABS, PETG, Nylon

3D printer temperature is an essential setting for success. Read on for the best 3D printer temperatures for PLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, and TPU.

Blend Your Knowledge

The 20 Best Blender Tutorials in 2022 (Most Are Free)

Take your 3D modeling skills to the next level! Check out our picks for the best Blender tutorials! Most of them are free.

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!

Mind the Gap

Gaps in 3D Prints: How to Fix & Avoid Them

Gaps in 3D prints are annoying defects that mess up how parts look and work. Check out this guide for easy fixes and how to avoid them!

The Best Textures in Life Are Free

Free Substance Painter Materials: The Best Sites

Textures make 3D models come to life. Check out the best sites for free Substance Painter materials and add some new textures to your models!

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!

Sugar, Slice, & Everything Nice

Creality Slicer: Overview in 2022

If you have a Creality Printer, Creality Slicer is optimized for you! Read on to learn all the basics about this slicer.

3D Print Success!

Things to 3D Print & Sell: 3D Printed Items that Sell

3D printers are capable of many things, so why not make the most of this tech? Check out tips on how to make 3D printed items that sell!

Blurring Lines

Z Seam (Cura): How to Hide It

A Z seam is a visible line of imperfections running down the side of a print. With Cura, Z seams can be no more! Read on to learn how.

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!

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!