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3D Printing Basics
A hands-on, beginner-friendly workshop for all ages. Learn how 3D printers work, watch live demos, and troubleshoot like a pro! 💜
All Ages Welcome1-2 HoursNo Experience Needed
What You'll Learn
8 hands-on modules covering everything from how printers work to troubleshooting like a pro.
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01
Introduction
(5-10 min)- ✓Meet your instructor and what to expect
- ✓What is 3D printing? Building objects layer by layer using plastic
- ✓Fun hook: pass around a cool mini print and guess how it was made!
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02
How 3D Printing Works
(10-15 min)- ✓FDM printers — melting plastic filament layer by layer
- ✓Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG and when to use each
- ✓Live demo: watch a printer in action or see a time-lapse
- ✓Pass around finished prints to see and feel the layers
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03
Slicer Software Basics
(15-20 min)- ✓What is a slicer? Turning a 3D model into printer instructions
- ✓Walkthrough: import a file, scale it, adjust settings
- ✓Key settings: layer height, infill, and supports
- ✓Live demo: slice a model and preview the layers
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04
Design Tips for Printability
(15-20 min)- ✓What makes a good 3D print design
- ✓Avoid overhangs without supports
- ✓Keep wall thickness sturdy
- ✓Where to find free ready-to-print models online
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05
Printer Setup & Safety
(10-15 min)- ✓Know your printer: bed, nozzle, filament spool, display
- ✓Loading filament and leveling the bed
- ✓Safety first: hot parts, loose clothing, ventilation
- ✓Hands-on: see how to load filament and start a print
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06
The Printing Process
(10-15 min)- ✓Starting a print and watching that crucial first layer
- ✓Monitoring for issues like warping or clogs
- ✓Post-processing: removing supports, sanding, painting
- ✓Inspect finished prints hands-on
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07
Troubleshooting
(10 min)- ✓Print won't stick? Check bed leveling or clean the surface
- ✓Warping corners? Try glue stick, heated bed, or brims
- ✓Stringing? Adjust temperature or retraction
- ✓Show failed prints — guess what went wrong!
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08
Q&A & Wrap-Up
(5-10 min)- ✓Recap everything learned
- ✓Resources: Thingiverse, MyMiniFactory for free models
- ✓What would YOU like to 3D print first?
- ✓Every attendee leaves with a free 3D print or a discount on future workshops! 🐼
What Makes Our Workshops Special
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Real Prints to Touch
Pass around real 3D prints — feel the layers, see the detail
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Live Printing Demos
Watch a 3D printer create something right before your eyes
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Free Thank-You Gift
Leave with a free 3D print or a discount on your next workshop
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All Ages Welcome
We love working with kids, but everyone is welcome to learn
Workshop FAQ
Ready to Book a Workshop?
Schools, libraries, birthday parties, community events — we come to you!
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