STL Finder is like the “Google” of finding 3D models and files.

I’m a fan of the STL Finder search engine. Thingiverse is a popular 3D printing website where users can upload their designs for the community to use. There are many websites online to find 3D models to print. Otherwise, you can find community-contributed files to 3D print. Some CAD modeling programs, like Fusion 360, allow you to export directly into a slicer.Ĭura is a native option for this feature however, I think you can also select a different slicer as long as it’s installed on your computer.Įither way, you can skip the next section and move to Step 3 if you’re using models you drew yourself. Just make sure you export the model as an STL and save it locally on your computer. If you’re looking to print out a 3D model you drew, then you’re all set. For local printers, you can search the list of printers and add them by brand.For network printers, you can add a printer by its IP Address or by scanning your network.Go to the Printer Preferences in the Top Left Corner and click “Add Printer”.Add your 3D Printer within the Slicerīefore you can 3D print using a slicer, you’ll have to set up your 3D printer settings. However, if you’re looking for a flexible option, then OctoPrint is better for dev-work and customizations.Īfter you figure out which slicer you want to use, download and install it on your computer. In my experience, AstroPrint is a little easier to set up than OctoPrint. If you’re looking for an all-in-one option, both of these programs are worth checking out. OctoPrint and AstroPrint have cloud and wireless 3D printing options in addition to slicing. STL) into a format that a 3D printer can understand (i.e. Some slicers have more features and are easier to use than others.īut they ultimately do the same thing: translate a 3D model (i.e. Does it matter which 3D Slicer Program I choose? For MakerBot printers, you’ll probably be coaxed into using the MakerBot Print utility. I will mention however, that depending on your 3D printer, there might be a particular slicer you have to use.įor FlashForge Printers, it’s easiest to use FlashPrint. Once you learn the basic methodology of preparing an STL for 3D printing, then you can download a few other ones to see which one you like the best.

This was the first slicing tool I learned, and it’s been my go-to for many 3D printing hours. A lot of people in the 3D printing space have their preferred Slicing Software, so here are a few popular (and free) options to choose from:įor this tutorial, I’m going to focus on showing you how to slice files using Cura.

Gcode files for 3d printer free