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Welcome to Vancouver Island Regional Library

Home / Learn / Skills / Creativity Commons / 3D Printing

Creativity Commons

  • 3D Printing
  • Microfilm
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  • Book Printing
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  • Booking Request

WHAT IS 3D PRINTING?

3D printing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. Our Lulzbot Taz6 3D printer uses additive manufacturing processes. In an additive process, an object is created by building the object layer by layer moving up the Z-axis until the entire object is created. 3D printing is often used to create prototypes, toys, hobby items and replacement parts.

Meet our Printer: LulzBot Taz 6

The Lulzbot Taz 6 has a robust set of features including a self leveling bed,  a heated bed and a self cleaning nozzle simplifying the printing process. Our Taz 6 is equipped with the modular tool head and prints using PLA filament.

Technical Specifications

Layer Resolution: 0.05mm—0.4mm
Print Surface: Heated Bed, Borosilicate Glass
Print dimensions: 280mm x 280mm x 250 mm

Using a 3D Printer

The 3D Printer is available on a first-come, first-served basis and can booked ahead of time for up to three hours.

Printing Costs

A printing fee of $.10 per gram of filament will be charged for each print job.
Some print jobs will require support to be printed and a finished models will be weighed with support.

Rules for 3D Printing

  • You must have an active Vancouver Island Regional Library card.
  • Printing weapons and items prohibited by the Vancouver Island Regional Library’s code of conduct are not allowed.
  • Print times are limited to 3 hours per print per day
  • Print jobs must be completed during library hours within half an hour before closing.
  • You must be 16 years or older or accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

3D Printing Classes and Programs

Introduction to 3D printing
Learn how 3D printers work and how you can print in the creativity commons. This class includes hands on instruction with Cura and how to prepare your model for print.
3D Design
Learn to edit, modify and design your own 3D models using open source software such as Tinkercad and Blender.

3D Printing Resources

3D Printing Demonstrations
3D print time-lapse’s of library prints.
Tinkercad
Tinkercad is a free, easy-to-use browser app for 3D design.
Blender
Blender is an open source 3D creation suite. It supports 3D modeling, rigging, animation, simulation, rendering, compositing, motion
tracking, video editing and game creation.
Thingiverse
Thingiverse is a website dedicated to the sharing of user-created digital design files that can be downloaded and printed on a desktop 3D
printer.
Cura LulzBot Edition
Cura is a free software that prepares and converts your model into a GCODE which can then be read by our 3D printer generate your model.
Child watching 3D printer

3D Printing FAQs

I don't live in Nanaimo, can I have something printed for me and sent to my branch?

Yes, we are happy to assist with the printing of your 3D printed object and will send it direct to your branch for pickup. Email the Creativity Commons at cc@virl.bc.ca and attach your .stl file. Someone will then be in touch to follow up with your request.

I want to try the 3D printer but don’t know where to start. Any recommendations?

Attending an Introduction to 3D printing classes at the Creativity Commons is great first step. LinkedIn Learning also offers a variety of online classes on 3D printing which is available to all Vancouver Island Regional Library members.

How long does a model take to print?

A 3D print can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 24 hours. In addition to the print time, the 3D printer take 5-10 for the printer to warm-up and run the auto-leveler testing all the axis points. Please note that all print jobs must be completed during library open hours.

Is there a fee to print?

Yes, there is a printing fee of $0.10 cents per gram printed including supports.

What colours can I print in?

The Taz 6 prints in one colour per print. You can choose from:

  • Black
  • White
  • Pink
  • Red
  • Orange
  • Yellow
  • Blue
  • Green
  • Purple
  • Silver

Why did my print arrive with supports still attached to my item?

When a 3D printed item is printed, it requires supports for any overhanging edges to properly print in place. These supports add structure and aids protecting the 3D print to reduce the likelihood of damage during shipment.

Need help learning? Vancouver Island Regional Library offers FREE access to over 3,500 video tutorials through lynda.com

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