Basics

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

Anet A8 Firmware: Which to Choose & How to Change It

The saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." Does that apply to the old Anet A8 firmware? Should you "mess" with the new firmware? We say yes, and for good reason.

One with Nature, Nearly

Is PLA Biodegradable? – The Truth

One of PLA's main selling points is its biodegradability, but is PLA really biodegradable? Keep reading to find out the truth.

Need For Speed

3D Printing Speed: How to Find the Perfect Settings

Tuning 3D printing speed can be tricky: If it's too slow, prints take forever, but if it's too fast, prints fail. Where is the sweet spot? Let's find out!

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...

Pushing for the Answer

Direct vs Bowden Extruder: Does It Make a Difference?

Direct or Bowden extruder. That's the question! But how do they work and which is better? Check out this article to learn the differences.

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.

The Tip of the Iceberg

3D Printer Nozzle Cleaning – The Easiest Way to Do It

The nozzle is the last thing that comes in contact with your 3D printed part. With such an important role, it's important to keep it maintained, ensuring the quality of your 3D prints. Here we show you a few methods to do just that.

I Am STL Learning...

G-Code to STL: How to Convert G-Code Back to STL

Converting an STL to G-code can be done easily, but converting from G-code to STL can be quite a challenge. Learn how to do it.

From Solidworks to Solid Prints

SLDPRT to STL: How to Convert SLDPRT Files to STL

Converting SLDPRT to STL can be hard if you don't have the right tools. Here's a handy list of tools you can use to convert your files. Choose the one that works for you!

Long Live the King

PETG vs ABS: The Differences – Simply Explained

For a long time, ABS was unchallenged when it came to strength and durablility – until PETG arrived. So what are the differences between PETG and ABS?

Better Than a Probe

Mesh Bed Leveling – A Simple Guide

Get a smooth, even first layer with mesh bed leveling. In this guide we simply explain this leveling process and show you how to implement it yourself.

Machine Controller

Best CNC Router Software (Some are Free)

CNC control software is the last thing standing between you and your machined part. Discover our selection of best CNC router software.

The Root of the Problem

PLA Not Sticking to Print Bed / Build Plate – Easy Fixes

The beginning is a wonderful place to start. In 3D printing, however, it is often the most frustrating. Sometimes, PLA prints simply won't stick. Other times, they'll pop right off the platform, mid-print! Here are some easy fixes to eliminate the problem.

Enough Is Enough

3D Printer Over-Extrusion: 3 Simple Solutions

Are you fed up with blobs, strings, or jams? Check out this guide for three simple solutions that will fix your 3D printer over-extrusion problems forever!

The Sensor Is Just the Beginning...

How to Set Up Marlin for Auto Bed Leveling

When auto bed leveling is concerned, hardware selection seems to get all the attention. Tuck into this detailed guide of setting up Marlin for auto bed leveling to make sure that that shiny new probe actually works!

A Heated Discussion

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

A Few Easy STEPs

STL to STEP: How to Convert STL Files to STEP

Kinect-ing the Dots

5 Best Kinect 3D Scanner Software Tools

Stepping Back

3D Printer Retraction Speed: What Does It Mean?

In this article, we explore 3D printer retraction speed, why retraction is employed, and how retraction settings are tweaked to produce the perfect print.

Extrusion Confusion

Ender 3 Under-Extrusion: Solutions, Tips, & Tricks

Under-extrusion is a common problem in FDM 3D printing, and the Ender 3 is certainly not exempt from this issue. Fix Ender 3 under-extrusion forever with this quick and easy guide.