3D Printing Basics

If you have access to a printer, you'll need your own filament. White or black PLA is the easiest color to start with — it shows details clearly and prints reliably on almost any machine.

You need to measure things precisely when designing parts that have to fit together or replace something broken. Digital calipers measure in millimeters to one decimal place — exactly what Tinkercad uses.

Once you're printing regularly, you'll want to sand rough edges and smooth layer lines. A set of small needle files and sandpaper grits from 120 to 400 lets you make prints look clean and professional.