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Introduction to 3D Printing

Basics about 3D Printing at Russell Library.

What is 3D Printing?

  • 3D Printing is creating a physical object from a three-dimensional digital model. This is usually done by layering a thin material repeatedly until the object is formed.
  • 3D Printing is also known as Additive Manufacturing (AM).
  • 3D Printing got its start in the 1980s.
  • Chuck Hull of the 3D Systems Corporation (creator of CubePro) contributed to the industry with his development of the STL (Stereolithography) file that is widely used in 3D Printing. He defined this process as “a system for generating three-dimensional objects by creating a cross-sectional pattern of the object to be formed.”

How to Start

  • We recommend visiting Thingiverse.com to find tons of free 3D models.
  • You can then bring your .stl or .obj file on a flash drive to the 3D Print Desk. You can also email us the file to gcsu.sta@gmail.com. Make sure to let us know the size and/or how much your looking to spend as we charge .10 cents per gram to print.
  • If you stop by the 3D Print Desk we will consult with you then and there about your options and how much it'll cost. You will then fill out our 3D Print Request Form so that you'll be in our print queue. We will email you when your 3D Print is ready to be picked up!
  • Attending the workshop will give you an understanding of how 3D Printing works and our process to get you your 3D Print.

Workshop PowerPoint