Getting Started with 3D Printing

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file. The most common method for hobbyists is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), where plastic filament is melted and deposited layer by layer to build up the object.

Unlike traditional manufacturing which removes material (subtractive), 3D printing adds material only where needed, reducing waste and enabling complex geometries impossible with other methods.

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
- Most common for hobbyists
- Uses plastic filament (PLA, PETG, ABS)
- Affordable ($200-$2000)
- Great for functional parts

Resin (SLA/MSLA)
- Uses liquid photopolymer resin
- Higher detail than FDM
- Requires post-processing
- Best for miniatures and jewelry

Powder Bed (SLS)
- Industrial applications
- Nylon and metal parts
- No support structures needed
- Expensive ($10,000+)