1

Download or create a 3D model

• Search 3D object repositories
• Create your own model using 3D design software at home or on one of The Workshop's computer stations

2

Choose the printer that you want to print on

• The Workshop has four 3D printers, with different material cabailities, complexity and build sizes
• Information about each printer and how to decide where to start

3

Attend an orientation for the printer

• You must attend an orientation on the particular 3D printer that you want to use
• Orientations are held several times each week
• No need to reserve a spot at the orientations, just drop in

4

Reserve time on the printer

• Use The Workshop's reservation calendar to block out time for your print
• Reserve the printer for the full length of time it will take to print your object, plus add a bit more time in case of any snags
• When you arrive to The Workshop for your reservation time, stop by the front desk to 'check out' the printer

5

Prepare your object using a slicing program

• 3D models (generally file types .stl and .obj) need to be loaded into a slicing program, which prepare the model to be printed using g-code
• In The Workshop we use Cura for the Lulzbot, ideaMaker for the Raise, and Makerbot Print for the Makerbot
• The slicing program is also where you control the quality and other elements of the print
• Instructions for using a slicing program are detailed in the orientations and in our instructions

6

Print and enjoy

• Set up the printer using our detailed instructions
• At this time, all 3D printing at The Workshop is free to everyone in the VCU community