3D Printing

From concept to creation, 3D printing can help make your ideas reality! Our fabrication service provides a low barrier to entry method for 3D printing your files. Once you have a digital 3D model, you can send us your file online anytime and pick up your print once it’s ready!

3D printing is a phenomenal tool for research, rapid prototyping, creative expression, and problem solving. Once you learn how to 3D print - you will keep finding solutions to every day problems from personal to professional and everything in between.

What is 3D printing used for?

• Educational models and learning tools
• Research and tools for research
• Coursework, classes, and academic projects
• Personal projects

How to 3D print at the Makerspace

1. Find or create a 3D model. 
2. Submit your file via MakeAtState, our online submission website. 
3. Our staff will review your file and set a price based on the amount of material used. 
4. Once you submit payment, we begin printing.
5. You’ll get an email when your order is ready for pick up. 
6. Pick up your print from the Print and Production Center. 

No experience? No problem! You can email, call, or stop by the Makerspace in person for any questions. If you need some help with your project, please request a consultation - we’d love to help!

Rates:

Getting a 3D Model

To 3D print at the makerspace, you’ll first need to find or make a 3D model of the object you want to print. We can help you get started on your 3D modeling journey but we do not do design work for you.

Option 1: Find a model online

• Before diving head first into 3D modeling, you may want to see if a model is already available online. Creators often upload files online for others to use at no cost under a creative commons license. Many websites also sell 3D models. Just be aware that we cannot guarantee a model you find online will be 3D printable
• Websites we love:
  • Thingiverse
  • Printables
  • Maker World
  • NIH 3D Print Exchange
  • Smithsonian
  • NASA 3D Printable Models
• There are many repositories of 3D models online, but beware – not all 3D models are made the same. Designing a digital model for a game engine or for virtual reality is a very different process than designing for something to be 3D printing. When searching for a file online, check the following
  • Is there an image of a 3D print of the model? 
    • If there are only digital pictures or renderings of the model, it might not be ready for a 3D printer. 
  • Is there a readily downloadable version of the file as a .stl or .3mf? 
    • Other file types will need to be converted. File types such as .glb, .gltf, or .fxb might not be made with the intent to 3D print. 
    • Files such as .obj or .step are usually good to go!
  • Are there positive comments on the model?
    • Most 3D model repositories have a section for people to comment about the model. Check for any comments related to issues with the model being broken or causing errors or print failures. 
  • Are there remixes or makes?
    • Most 3D model repositories have a section 

Option 2: Create a model from real life through digital imaging

• Photogrammetry: Structure from motion
  • Photogrammetry is the process of creating a digital model through a series of images or from a video. Photogrammetry software is rapidly evolving and there are a few free options as well as many paid options available. 
  • For MSU affiliates, you can access MetaShape from the Digital Scholarship Lab
  • For free photogrammetry options available to all members of the community, visit the photogrammetry libguide. 
• 3D Scanning: Structure from light
• Medical images like a CT scan
  • INVasallius, pollen model project, etc.
  • Link out to Anatomage table
• Topographical Maps
• Using AI tools 
  • At this time there are no generative artificial intelligence tools for creating a 3D model that we recommend for 3D printing. We’re staying on the look out for new tools on the horizon! 

Option 3: Modify an existing model or create a new one

• Beginner friendly software:
  • TinkerCAD
  • CAD It!
  • Make a lithophane from an image
• Parametric software
  • Autodesk Fusion
    • Educational access
    • Personal use access
  • FreeCAD
  • OpenSCAD
• Mesh software
  • Blender
  • Sculpt GL
  • Mesh Mixer
  • Nomad Sculpt / ZBrush / Sculptris
• Check our upcoming workshops for opportunities to learn how to model in TinkerCAD or Fusion. If you have a group of at least 6 people, you can request a 3D modeling workshop. 

3D Printing Filament Descriptions:

**No longer providing ABS or nylon**

PLA

PLA is the most widely used plastic filament material in FDM 3D printing due to its low melting point, high strength, low thermal expansion, and good layer adhesion. This versatile plastic is a great choice for most projects. Whether you are just beginning your journey into the world of 3D printing or designing advanced artistic models, PLA offers the widest variety of color options and a great surface quality. It accepts paint and super glue well for customization after printing. PLA is made from corn starch and is the most environmentally friendly filament. It will biodegrade but in an ordinary room it will last for hundreds of years. PLA is brittle and can snap under pressure. 

• Attributes:  Variety of Color, Surface Quality, Paint/Glue friendly
• Resistances:  Water
• Weaknesses: Brittle
• Best uses:  Most 3D projects
• Similarities: PVB

Resin

Photopolymer resin is used in 3D printing for projects with more detail and structural needs. The print is cured with UV light during printing, which hardens the layers of resin. Resin printing is more advanced, and has much longer processing times than PLA prints. Resin has many advantages not found in PLA, including higher levels of detail, less visible layer lines, and an overall high quality smooth surface. Resin prints are great for small figurines that need to retain detail, or complex research prototypes. 

Which Type of Filament do I need?