Cannon AFB  Library


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3D Printing at Cannon Library

What would you make?

The MakerBot Sketch Large 3D printer is available to library cardholders to make three dimensional objects in plastic (environmentally friendly) using a design that is exported from the MakerBot Print software.

Getting Started:

  1. Be prepared to spend some time learning. 3D printing involves some trial and error experiences.
  2. Review the Usage Policy (included below).
  3. Design in the library or at home.
  4. Select or design the CAD object to be printed.
  5. Prepare it for printing with Makerbot CloudPrint.
  6. Send file via CloudPrint with our submission link.
  7. Staff will print the file.

Image of 3D Printed Heart Image of 3D Printed Figure Image of 3D Printed Owl Image of 3D Printed Hat


Usage Policy:
The library's 3D printer may be used only for lawful purposes.
Don't print items:

  • Prohibited by local, state, or federal law
  • Are unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or pose an immediate threat to the well-being of others.
  • Are obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the library environment
  • In violation of another's intellectual property rights (copyright, patent, or trademark)

Availability:

  • 3D printing at the library is currently free
  • A staff member will train individuals age 15 and older on how to use the 3D printers and software. Training is one on one with a staff member for certification. (More than one person can be trained at once as well.)
  • Patrons trained to use the 3D printers may print 10 hours a week resetting the time every Monday. Patrons wanting to print more than 10 hours per week will need to provide their own MakerBot PLA Filament that is approved by a staff member.
  • Two 3D printers are available for use within the library’s operating hours. 

3D Printer Software & Printing Parameters:

  • Files can be downloaded and prepared in the MakerBot CloudPrint software at the library or at home.
  • Files must be prepared in the MakerBot CloudPrint software with the Sketch Large printer selected and be sent via submission link to print. 
  • Files sent must include name and color request in parentheses. EX: John Doe (Red)
  • Jobs that appear to be failing will be canceled to save filament resources and patron use

Image of 3D printed lion Image of 3D printed cookie cutter Image of 3D printed dinosaur


Resources:
The following free software is available for use in the library or can be downloaded on a personal computer.

  • Find it on Thingiverse! (www.thingiverse.com) Eager to get started with the 3D printer, but not sure where to begin? Visit MakerBot Thingiverse, which is a 3D design community where you can discover, download, and print over 100,000 free 3D models.
  • MakerBot CloudPrint is the software specifically for the library MakerBot Sketch Large. This free 3D printer slicer works in tandem with our 3D printers to create and execute an endless amount of projects and ideas all from the power of the cloud.

  • Design with SketchUp! (https://www.sketchup.com/products/sketchup-free) SketchUp is free 3D modeling software that's easy to learn and incredibly fun to use. Start by drawing lines and shapes. Push and pull surfaces to turn them into 3D forms. Stretch, copy, rotate and paint to make anything you like.

Many instructional videos are available on YouTube.

Image of 3D printed dna strand Image of 3D printed deer Image of 3D printed octopus