3D Printing Class in Pittsburgh

Prototype PGH offers a 3D printing class in Pittsburgh for beginners and experienced makers alike, at both of our makerspaces. Here is the full description from our team:

Learn to 3d print at Prototype PGH! In our 3d printer trainings you will learn safe operation of our 3d printers along with a PrusaSlicer primer. We will also cover where to find 3d models for printing. This workshop is for beginners, but more advanced students are welcome to come with their own files and projects, for assistance or guidance on how to bring their ideas to reality. At our Oakland makerspace location, we have Prusa and Creality machines, and we have a Prusa 3d printer at the Sharpsburg makerspace.

All of our workshops are for all skill levels, unless stated clearly in the title of the workshop, e.g. "Advanced Sewing Workshop" or "Advanced 3d Printing" classes.

Curriculum

The beginner level curriculum for a 3d printing class at Prototype covers safe operation of the 3d printer machines, basic use of PrusaSlicer for sending vector image files to the 3d printer, and a basic overview of how 3d printing works and the steps of the process involved to 3d print a simple project. We will cover various types of 3d printing filaments and their uses, as well as basic cleaning and troubleshooting of 3d printer machines at our makerspaces.

What you can make

3D printing is a great way to make keychains, small toys, whistles, custom brackets, replacement parts, miniatures, and prototypes of your own designs. Beginners usually start from a ready-made 3D model and print it, then move on to modifying or designing their own. Whatever you make, our trainings get you comfortable running the machines on your own as a cleared member.

Frequently asked questions

What is 3D printing?

3d printing (specifically fused deposition modeling) is the process by which a material is melted by a machine and extruded into layers that form a shape that is input by the user.

What machines do you have access to?

At Prototype x Oakland we have an PrusaMini and a Creality (Ender-3), and at Prototype x Sharpsburg we have a Prusa Original.

Is there safety training included in the workshop?

Every clearance workshop includes safety training.

Do I have to pay for materials in the space?

Every Prototype location has some materials that are free to use.

Do I have to be a member to use the equipment?

Yes, but if you have a project, you and a member can work on it together.

Do I need to be trained to use the equipment?

Yes, you must be trained to use the equipment.

Related

You may also enjoy our laser cutting and engraving trainings or our screen printing workshops.