3D Printing @ North Forest DAC: About

There are three steps in the 3D Printing Process: Create, Slice, and Print.

You can create a 3D object from scratch using a design or drafting program, use a model someone else create, or use a scan to create a model.

Using a special program called a slicer, the graphical information from the model is converted into instructions for the 3D Printer, making choices about build plate adhesion, supports, and other options.

The file created by the Slicer program is loaded onto the printer and your model becomes a physical object!

Would you like to try your hand at 3D Printing? Visit the HCC-North Forest DAC/Library Service Desk for more information! When you're ready to print, submit your model using the 3D Printing Appointment Form.

Remember: each step in this process can take some time, especially the printing process. If you are doing this for a class project or have a deadline, make sure to give yourself plenty of time encase something unexpected happens.

Please make sure to read our Rules and Regulations before making a print request.

There are a lot of factors that impact how long it takes to complete a print: complexity of design, need for supports, and type of filament used among them.

These CaliCat models were printed on an Ultimaker 3, in PLA with 20% infill.

The Blue CaliCat is 17.5mm tall and took 16 minutes to print.

The Red CaliCat is 35mm tall and took 58 minutes to print.

The Green CaliCat is 70mm tall and took about 4 hours to print.

The Yellow CaliCat is 140mm tall and took about 21 hours to print.