Guide 01 · Start from scratch

Your ideas,your first print.

Curious about 3D printing but unsure where to start? Twelve chapters take you from choosing a printer to making your first object, covering materials, files, settings, troubleshooting and finishing.

12 chaptersFor beginnersRead online
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Cover of the guide 3D printing, from filament to selling, with a 3D printer, a yellow dragon and a filament spool

From theory to the print bed

What you will learn, step by step.

Choose your equipment

Understand FDM printing and find your way through printers, filaments and accessories to get started.

Prepare and print your model

Find files, use a slicer and learn how to set up your model before starting a print.

Improve your results

Spot errors, finish your pieces and maintain your printer, through to taking your first steps in selling.

Inside the guide

Twelve chapters. A complete journey.

Start with the first chapter or return to the topic you need, whenever you like.

  1. 01

    Welcome to the Magical World of Filament

  2. 02

    Choosing Your First Printer

    Buying guide

  3. 03

    The Materials

  4. 04

    The Maker's Arsenal

    Tools and Setup

  5. 05

    From Idea to Object

    Modeling and Slicing

  6. 06

    Taming the Slicer

    Preparing the File

  7. 07

    Slicer Settings

  8. 08

    Machine Ready

    Physical Preparation

  9. 09

    Surviving the Errors

    Basic Troubleshooting

  10. 10

    The Magic of Post-Processing

    From Rough to Masterpiece

  11. 11

    Routine Maintenance and Survival

  12. 12

    From Maker to Seller

    Cashing In on 3D

Before you begin

Your questions, answered.

Is this a subscription?

No. Pay €5 once for this guide and keep access through your account, with no renewals.

Where can I find the guide after buying?

Sign in with the account you used to buy it and open Guides in the menu. You will find the Read the guide button. Read online, including on your phone or tablet.

Do I need to buy it if I am a Partner?

No: reading is included with a valid Standard, Plus or Pro plan. If you purchase the guide separately, you keep access without a Partner subscription.

Do I need to know about 3D printing already?

No. This first guide is for people starting from scratch: it explains the terms, initial choices and steps needed to get to your first print.

Your next idea could become your first print.

Start with the guide