Utilizing the 3D Printers

Prerequisites 

• Must be a JCU student or staff/faculty member
• Must have a device that can download files 
• Must have a JCU Google Workspace account

This Article Covers:

This article discusses how to utilize the Center for Digital Media's 3D printing service. The CDM has two 3D printers open for all JCU students, faculty, and staff to use for no charge. The MakerBot Method and UltiMaker printers are both high-speed and precision-oriented, producing smaller 3D models based on designs created on your computer. 

MakerBot Method/UltiMaker Printer

1. Plan your model
   1. Decide what you want to create (keychain, logo, cup, etc)
      • Your design cannot exceed 6" x 6"
      •  Simpler designs are easier to print successfully
2. Design your model in Tinkercad
   1. Create an account for free on tinkercad.com
   2. Start a new design
   3. Use the shapes menu to drag and drop basic shapes (cubes, cylinders, text, etc)
   4. Modify shapes (resize, group, rotate) to create your design
   5. Check object thickness - walls should generally be at least 2mm thick, so the print is durable
   6. Ensure your object is solid - use Group to merge shapes and make sure there are no floating pieces
3. Prepare for printing
   • Make sure your design is flat on the work plane (not hovering in space)
   • Avoid overhangs that might require supports unless you specify them
   • Check scale with the ruler tool in Tinkercad
4. Export the file
   1. In Tinkercad, click Export at the upper right
   2. Choose .STL file format
   3. Save the file to your computer with a descriptive name (ex. mini flower pot)
5. Submit your 3D printing file to the CDM
   1. Students and faculty interested in using the 3D printer service are encouraged to set up a consultation with a full-time staff or student assistant of the CDM by submitting a ticket.
   2. The CDM will notify you, via a PackCity notification email, when your 3D model is ready for pick-up.
      • They will be in the yellow lockers right outside room B112 Grasselli Library.

Resources

1. ITS Tech Training Calendar: https://www.jcu.edu/cdm/training
2. Tinkercad Website: https://www.tinkercad.com/
3. Tinkercad Learning Center: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/designs?collectionId=OSZ5W2BL1W5N51F
4. UltiMaker Training Manual:  https://um-support-files.ultimaker.com/manuals/user-manual/S8/EN-UltiMakerS8-V1.4-2025-07.pdf
5. MakerBot Training Manual: https://www.bme.jhu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Makerbot-Training-Manual.pdf