Make Your Own Creations with 3D Printing
Build, design, and create cool projects from digital files! 3D printing services are available at Central Branch. A library membership is required to use this service. Find out how to become a member.
Getting Started
To use the equipment, you'll need to sign up for the 3D Printing 101 workshop. This introductory training will cover everything you need to know about 3D printing and allow you to book time to use the equipment independently upon completion.
About the Workshop
The 3D Printing 101 workshop consists of two parts: during the first hour, a member of our team will teach you how to use our equipment and then leave you to use it independently for 3-4 hours. Once you complete the workshop, you can book time to use the equipment on your own.
Our makerspace services include Prusa i3 MK3S+ 3D printers with a building space of 9.84 x 8.3 x 8.3 inches. 3D printers use filaments to print, which are plastics (aka polymers) that can be shaped and moulded when heated and solidify when cooled. Our 3D printers use PLA filament of 1.75 mm (+/- 0.5) with a 0.4 mm nozzle.
Using the Equipment
Once you have completed the introductory workshop (3D Printing 101), you can book time with the equipment. Please note: this is only available to experienced users. Participants must be 14 years or older to use the equipment. Those younger than 14 years must be accompanied by a caregiver.
Follow the steps below to create your own item with our 3D printer.
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Find or create your model: You can find free, open-source designs from websites like Thingiverse or Prusa Printers. If you enjoy creating your own designs, you can download an application like TinkerCad, which will provide instructions and tutorials on creating your own model. Keep in mind that while we have a variety of filament colours available, only one colour can be used on your model at a time.
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Save your file: Ready to print your model? Save your file in one of the appropriate file formats (.stl, .obj) on a file hosting service like Google Drive or a storage device (USB flash drive or external hard drive). Staff will provide further information on how to use the PrusaSlicer software.
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Reserve our printer: Access our booking system for experienced maker appointments, and reserve your time with the equipment. Remember, you can only book use of our 3D printer for independent use after you've completed a Maker 101: 3D Printing workshop.
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Print your design: When you arrive for your appointment, check in with a team member at Central Branch's third floor Service Desk and we’ll help you access the machine and the required software. You’re expected to stay with the printer until the job is complete. Our 3D printers will give you a reasonable estimate of how long your print job will take. Depending on the size and complexity of your model, printing may take some time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Visit our Makerspace webpage and read through our frequently asked questions about makerspace services. You can also contact us for more information.