3D Printers: A Beginner's Guide, 2nd Revised and Expanded Edition: Core Principles You Will Need for Any Printer (Fox Chapel Publishing) Learn the Basics with Essential Info on Data Files and Software - Softcover

Oliver Bothmann

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1497100623 ISBN 13: 9781497100626

Publisher: Fox Chapel Publishing, 2025

Synopsis

This must-have book will guide you through your first steps in 3D printing at home!

• Learn the basics of 3D construction with essential information on data files and software
• Discover your options for both kits and ready-to-use printers
• Make your first 3D printed part with clear instructions taking you through the steps
• Become a 3D printing professional — learn what it takes to go pro

3D printing can seem like science fiction. Objects appear to be created out of nothing — as if by magic! With your own 3D printer, you can produce exactly the parts and products that you (and maybe only you) need.

Get started with a solid overview of concepts and techniques: Learn the basics of 3D construction with essential information on data files, programs, and software such as FreeCAD, Blender, Sketchup Free, Autodesk, Cura, Chitubox, and more.

Know what your options are for both kits and ready-to-use printers, discover what you need to do to make your first 3D printed part, and find out what it takes to become a 3D printing professional.

You will learn:

• What 3D printing is
• How to find 3D printing files online
• What data is required for printing
• How to construct custom files using 3D CAD
• How to work with slicing software
• 3D printing techniques with practice lessons
• Uses for a 3D printer
• What can be made with a 3D printer
• And much more!

A complete revision has been carried out from the first edition of this book. The major changes in the hardware and software for 3D printing have now been integrated into the book and the text, photos, and illustrations have been adjusted accordingly. In particular, the STL printing process with liquid resin, which is increasingly utilized by home users, is now presented in detail with its possibilities and practical applications. This updated edition of 3D Printers: A Beginner's Guide features the latest printers and programs, software updates, and a larger gallery to show you what's possible and what's not, plus tips and tricks for practical applications with all the current technologies.

If you aspire to use 3D printing for hobbies, crafts, spare parts, custom toys, or model engineering, this book will guide your first steps into a new future!

About this title

About the Author

Oliver Bothmann is a technical journalist who has written 7 German-language books on modeling technology. He is a former editor-in-chief of three modeling magazines, and a recognized expert on model engineering and machinery. This is his first book in the English language.

From the Back Cover

The Definitive How-To Guide for At-Home 3D Printing

When 3D printers were first introduced, the thought of adapting the technology for home enthusiasts seemed an impossibility. That is no longer the case. With more affordable, compact models and advancements in software, it is now possible for home inventors and creators to transform any vision into a fully realized product. Inside these pages, you will learn every aspect of the 3D printing process. Tailored for the beginner, author Oliver Bothmann methodically and thoughtfully details all of the design and technical basics of 3D printing so you can maximize its potential — and your creativity. From understanding what a 3D printer is to how to prepare for print, software construction, and slicing to practice printing, Bothmann will help you build confidence in your skills with every turn of the page.

YOU WILL LEARN

• What 3D printing is
• How to access available construction files online for printing
• What data is required for printing
• How to construct your own files for printing using a 3D CAD program
• About working with slicing software
• Practice lesson using the techniques covered in the book
• The uses for a 3D printer and what can be printed

Edition details

• Publisher: Fox Chapel Publishing
• Publication date: 2025
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1497100623
• ISBN 13: 9781497100626
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 168