[67C10Step]

The machine I am using is a Creality Ender 3. Pretty inexpensive hobby unit and they are typically about $200. The material I am using is PLA (polyactic acid) and is about $20 for a kilogram but it lasts a long time. I also have some softer material but I’m waiting on a different drive setup to feed it reliably.

The software I use to make the files is Cura and can be downloaded for free. It is required to set up the file, scale the size, etc. I don’t have the software to create something from scratch but my son does. I download stuff off the net with a site called Tingiverse being a favorite.

Setting up the bed for level and height is critical and can get frustrating. I watched a few videos and downloaded a print file that made it a lot easier.

Like anything it takes some patience and time but after that it’s pretty neat.