What is 3D Printing?
3D printing is a process of making three dimensional solid objects from a digital file. Our 3D printers use 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.
The Process
Patrons can either email cc@virl.bc.ca with an STL file or link to a Thingiverse page with specifications about size, and filament colour. Patrons are welcome to use the branch computers for the purpose of looking up files or playing in Tinkercad.
Due to high demand, the 3D printers are not available for immediate use or patron printing designs themselves. We are happy to share about the process of printing though, if you would like to come in and learn more!
Filament options include one of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
Payment for 3D prints is made when you pick up your print from your branch (yes! That’s right! We can ship 3D prints to other VIRL branches). A slip outlining the cost and your contact details will be included with the print.
Rules
- You are encouraged to 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 6 to 8 hours per print.
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.
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.
How long does a model take to print?
A 3D print can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 24 hours. Print times largely depend on the size of the print and how durable it may need to be, which can affect how much filament may be used. Estimates are provided before printing is started.
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?
Filament options include one of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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.
![A raisin in the sun [ebook] : with connections Cover](https://www.syndetics.com/index.php?isbn=9780307807441/LC.gif&client=vancoirl&type=unbound)
Need help learning? Vancouver Island Regional Library offers FREE courses through LinkedIn Learning!
