Introduction Level 3D Printing Tutorial

Computer-aided design (CAD) skills will be taught using online software TinkerCAD (free) and Blender (free). Topics covered will be ideation techniques (planning your designs with sketches and research), CAD design techniques, object orientation, 3D model slicing, print support planning, and material settings. 

Students may repeat this class as many times as they like. Returning students will work on more advanced designs, or get help with projects that they have worked on between sessions.

Each session, students can work on their own designs. They will be introduced to TinkerCAD and/or Blender (if appropriate) the instructor will demonstrate how CAD designs are made. Each student is expected to complete their design independently. Continuing students will develop their own projects with the instructor’s help. 

During each session, we will share tips to make useful 3D shapes that can successfully print. We will discuss how 3D printing works, and the various types of machines that can be used to fabricate those designs. 

Each student will experience how a CAD model is sliced, converted to GCode, and then sent to a 3D printer for fabrication. We built a remote fabrication platform that is available for fabrication for students residing in Canada and the USA. We will be making this available for students from Europe and South Asia soon. Any prints made using our remote fabrication system (optional) will also include a high definition timelapse video. You can see examples of these on our YouTube channel - bit.ly/bamcytube

- For this class, you do NOT need to create an account on TinkerCAD. Our instructor will provide you with a class code and / or link to join. This does not require you to enter any personal information. The Blender software can be downloaded at no cost. Your instructor will share with you how to do this, if required. 

- A 3D printer is not required to participate in this class. 

- Competency in using a computer and basic web browsing skills are essential for this class. 

- Printing your 3D model using our remote fabrication platform is optional. Your instructor will explain how you can prepare your design to print remotely during the class session. Currently, this option is available only to students residing in Canada and the USA.