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In 2019, I had the opportunity to visit the Australian Institute of Marine Science located in northern Queensland, Australia. The facility was home to numerous large tanks and aquariums engaged in various experiments focused on the sustainability of the Great Barrier Reef. Among the intriguing features were several 3D printers, which our guide demonstrated with enthusiasm as they fabricated different components. I was captivated by this technology!
Since my visit, the world of 3D printing has significantly evolved. The range of objects that can be produced has diversified, and the technology has become more affordable. Where 3D printers once cost around $300,000 in the 1980s, today, individuals can acquire one for just a few hundred dollars. Furthermore, the range of available filaments continues to expand, offering greater creative possibilities.
This article presents a curated selection of top 3D printing courses suitable for both beginners and more seasoned enthusiasts, along with guidance on building and maintaining your own 3D printer. Be sure to explore the More Resources section as well.
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Here are our top picks
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What is 3D Printing Used For?
3D printing typically involves the process of melting filaments to layer and create objects according to a digital template. These templates, often referred to as models, can be developed through various means, including replicating real objects, modifying existing designs, or using 3D modeling software to create entirely new designs.
The applications of 3D printing are vast and include machine parts, dental and medical devices, architectural models, fashion items, and much more. This technology serves as a cost-efficient means for producing prototypes and customized objects. Interested in obtaining a 3D selfie?
While many printed products are made from a variety of plastics and polymers, advancements have enabled the use of materials such as metals and food. This ever-growing list reflects continuous innovations in filaments.
It’s important to note that printing patented items and other illegal objects, like undetectable firearms, is prohibited.
Can Anyone Take up 3D Printing?
The decreasing costs of 3D printers have opened the doors for many aspiring creators, although several key steps are still necessary to get started. Feel free to delve into the specifics and consider outsourcing tasks that aren’t your preference:
– Develop a virtual model utilizing 3D software like AutoCAD, Blender, Ultimaker Cura, or Autodesk Fusion 360. You can even deploy Photoshop for this purpose!
– Slice your virtual model using slicing software to create the item layer by layer.
– Use a 3D printer to produce your 3D object.
– Finish and, if desired, paint your model.
This article’s collection includes courses that focus on the operation of 3D printers and those covering the entire 3D printing process from start to finish. If designing interests you more than actual construction, you can enhance your skills in design and thereafter outsource the printing task. Alternatively, if you prefer operating a 3D printer without going through the design process, you can download both free and paid models from various online libraries.
However, the journey of creating a unique design is often rewarding, even amid any challenges you may encounter.
Courses Overview
– 4 courses are available for free or can be audited at no cost.
– 4 courses provide a certificate upon completion.
– The subject of 3D printing is followed by 8.9K learners on Class Central.
Kevin Volo, instructor:
For those new to the realm of 3D printing, the course titled 3D Printing: From Start to Finish presents a thorough exploration of its history, methods, and practical uses. Students will engage in a complete process designed to create and refine their own 3D printed products.
This course offers:
– An overview of the history and development of 3D printing, from its origins to contemporary applications.
– Techniques required for producing high-quality prints, along with guidance on file preparation and slicer usage.
– Post-processing methods to improve the aesthetics of printed products.
– Solutions for common technical hurdles that beginners may face.
“An ideal introduction to 3D printing for newcomers, providing a comprehensive overview without overwhelming details. I’ve already recommended this course to peers!” — S.M., Udemy learner.
Provider: Udemy
Instructor: Kevin Volo
Time Commitment: 5-6 hours
Enrollment: 6K
Rating: 4.3/5.0 (950)
Cost: Paid
Certificate: Paid
Aric Rindfleisch, instructor of the first course:
If you’re looking to innovate in your current role or want to explore a new hobby or career path, 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing is a broader specialization available through the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, in partnership with Ultimaker and Autodesk. This program will equip you with the insights and skills necessary to thrive in the 3D printing sector, covering the fundamentals and practical applications in real-world contexts.
This specialization encompasses five courses that guide you through essential methodologies, helping you transform creative ideas into physical objects.
“A fantastic introductory course on 3D printing. Even if you have some familiarity with the process, it introduces you to many applications you might not know. And for complete novices, it provides a solid groundwork…” — review of the first course by Anonymous.
Provider: Coursera
University: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Instructors: Alex Larson, Aric Rindfleisch, Jeffrey Smith, Matthew Griffin, and Vishal Sachdev
Time Commitment: 104 hours
Enrollment: 9.7K
Rating: 4.5/5.0 (244)
Cost: Free to audit
Certificate: Paid
Irv Shapiro, instructor:
3D Printing Tips for Beginners and Experts offers a wealth of practical insights for both newcomers and veterans in the field of 3D printing. Drawing from three years of experience and extensive reviews of 15 different printers, this course succinctly presents essential tips divided into 10 brief segments. Irv Shapiro’s extensive expertise ensures actionable insights are readily available. The course also includes resources for further exploration and learning in 3D printing.
What you’ll learn:
– Distinctions and applications related to FDM and resin 3D printers.
– Key aspects of manual bed leveling and printer calibration.
– Various filament types and their appropriate uses.
– Maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance of your printer.
Additional helpful information can also be found on the MakeWithTech channel.
“Thanks, Irv. I’ve been 3D printing for a few years, yet I always learn something new from your videos, even on basic topics. Your clear instructions are incredibly helpful!” — davebarkerdesign, YouTube learner.
Provider: YouTube
Channel: MakeWithTech
Instructor: Irv Shapiro
Time Commitment: 35 minutes
Views: 37K
Likes: 1.6K
Cost: Free
Certificate: Not available
Kacie Hultgren, instructor:
If you’re excited about turning digital designs into physical objects, the course Learning 3D Printing is an excellent entry point. This brief course introduces beginners to the basic principles of 3D printing, taught by Kacie Hultgren, a designer with a strong grasp of the technology. The course is especially beneficial for beginners eager to learn about 3D printing and for those looking to apply their design skills in the marketplace.
Throughout this course, you’ll learn:
– Fundamental concepts of 3D printing, its history, and its creative potential.
– An overview of commercial 3D printing technologies and how to select the right printer.
– Essential tools and techniques for 3D design, including scanning, filament-based printing, and modeling methods.
– How to prepare and repair designs for printing using netfabb Studio.
Kacie Hultgren also offers a related course on Designing a Replacement Part via 3D printing (1 hour).
“Helpful” — K.T.A., LinkedIn Learning learner.
Provider: LinkedIn Learning
Instructor: Kacie Hultgren
Time Commitment: 1-2 hours
Enrollment: 114K
Rating: 4.7/5.0 (950)
Cost: Paid (free trial)
Certificate: Paid
Joan Horvath and Rich Cameron, instructors:
In Additive Manufacturing: Metal 3D Printing, participants are immersed in cost-effective metal additive manufacturing techniques, primarily focusing on filament-based methods. This concise course covers the entire workflow from design to post-processing, addressing aspects such as material considerations and comparing various technologies. It also explores design considerations pertinent to metal additive manufacturing and offers guidance on outsourcing versus in-house production.
What learners will gain:
– Understanding of budget-friendly metal 3D printing techniques with a focus on filament-based methods.
– Knowledge of the metal 3D printing process, including debinding and sintering.
– Insights into design considerations that are unique to metal additive manufacturing.
– Guidance on selecting between outsourcing and in-house production.
Other relevant courses by Joan Horvath and Rich Cameron include:
Additive Manufacturing: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques (6 hours)
Additive Manufacturing: Materials for 3D Printing (2 hours)
Additive Manufacturing: Troubleshoot 3D Prints (2-3 hours)
Provider: LinkedIn Learning
Instructor: Joan Horvath and Rich Cameron
Time Commitment: 1 hour
Enrollment: 67K
Rating: 4.4/5.0 (264)
Cost: Paid (free trial)
Certificate: Paid
Core Electronics instructor:
New to the exciting world of 3D printing? 3D Printing Workshop provides beginner-friendly instruction requiring no prior printer experience. The instructor shares invaluable insights that ensure you optimize your usage and maintenance of a 3D printer.
What you’ll learn:
– Fundamental principles of 3D printing technology.
– Step-by-step guidance for operating a 3D printer.
– Practical advice for maintaining your printer to ensure excellent performance.
Provider: Udemy
Institution: Core Electronics
Time Commitment: 2 hours
Enrollment: 18.5K
Rating: 4.6/5.0 (755)
Cost: Free
Certificate: Not available
David Florian, instructor:
For those who wish to assemble a 3D printer from open-source components, How to Build a 3D Printer – The Ultimate Guide is a tailored course that breaks down the complexities of building a printer into manageable steps for DIY enthusiasts. Dr. D-Flo offers specific insights about the essentials of fused filament fabrication (FFF) along with component details. This course also includes references to Dr. D-Flo’s dedicated webpage for further exploration.
What learners will gain:
– Knowledge of the essentials of fused filament fabrication (FFF) and the necessary components.
– Guidance on selecting appropriate parts for custom 3D printer designs.
– Detailed instructions on assembling a 3D printer, covering critical components like linear rails and extruders.
– Insights into calibration, firmware updates, and advanced printing techniques, such as dual extrusion.
Dr. D-Flo also teaches digital fabrication techniques, including how to build a large-format 3D printer:
Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Pellet Extruder (26 mins)
Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Motion (28 mins)
Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Electrical (38 mins)
Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Printing (27 mins)
Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Upgrades! (41 mins)
“I’m a mechanical engineering student and I find your videos to be very accurate and helpful…” — bysmty, YouTube learner.
Provider: YouTube
Institution: Dr. D-Flo
Instructor: David Florian
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours
Views: 3.3M
Likes: 25K
Cost: Free
Certificate: Not available
More Resources
As with any type of equipment, your 3D printer may require maintenance to function effectively. Here are some helpful tools to keep your device in optimal condition:
3DBenchy, renowned as the “Hello, World!” of 3D printing, was designed in 2015 by Creative Tools to assist with setup and diagnostic processes. It is celebrated as one of the most printed objects in 3D history, achieving over 2 million downloads by 2020. This design is now available in the public domain.
Calibration test models can help identify issues related to temperature, sizing, and alignment. Beginners may want to start with Tom’s Hardware test prints or explore more complex measures with All3DP.
Wondering when to clean or adjust your 3D printer? Consult this handy guide from LinkedIn.
If you have specific questions about 3D printing, consider turning to the Reddit community in the subforum r/3Dprinting.
Why You Should Trust Us
Class Central serves as a valuable resource akin to a Tripadvisor for online education, having assisted over 100 million learners to discover their next courses. For over a decade, we have diligently explored various online educational platforms to compile a catalog consisting of 250,000 online courses and reviews. As online learners ourselves, we carry firsthand experience of completing more than 400 online courses, including entire degree programs. Personally, I have completed over 200 online courses spanning diverse topics.
How We Made Our Picks and Tested Them
Identifying the best courses can be a challenging endeavor, even for enthusiasts of online education. Here’s how I tackled the task.
I began by surveying Class Central’s catalog and the broader internet to locate a rich assortment of free and paid courses, including options that provide certificates upon completion.
In selecting courses, I focused on the following attributes:
– Instructor expertise: I prioritized instructors with extensive backgrounds in 3D printing and engaging teaching styles.
– Popularity metrics: I analyzed enrollment numbers and views to identify widely appreciated courses.
– Content breadth: I sought courses that covered a range of subtopics and pedagogical approaches, including both foundational and advanced materials. Additionally, I sampled course videos for quality assessment.
– Learner feedback: I reviewed available evaluations to gauge the courses’ strengths, consulting the Class Central database which includes thousands of user ratings and testimonials, alongside provider reviews.
After these evaluations, I delineated the scope of my recommendations, ensuring diverse insights into various aspects of 3D printing.
Ultimately, by combining data analysis with personal judgment, I am confident that these recommended courses provide a solid foundation to learn about 3D printing.
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