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Is MatterControl Compatible With My 3D Printer?

Is MatterControl Compatible With My 3D Printer?

MatterHackers
Jun 29, 2016

An in-depth look at MatterControl, MatterHackers' open source 3D printer-controller software, and how you can ensure success when connecting your 3D printer.

Compatibility with MatterControl is a topic that we are often addressing, so we will take some time to delve into exactly what type of technology MatterControl uses to communicate with the 3D printers for which it is designed. (More)

How to Use Tinkercad - Free 3D Modeling Software

How to Use Tinkercad - Free 3D Modeling Software

MatterHackers
Jun 7, 2017

Learn how to use Tinkercad, the reliable and user-friendly 3D modeling software. Perfect for educators, students, and makers alike, Tinkercad will help take the ideas you have to printable form as smoothly as possible.

Overview: Educators and students will learn how to use the free, simple, online 3D design and 3D printing app, TinkerCAD. It’s a free, easy to use, 3D modeling program that doesn’t require any prior design experience, but can still be used to create helpful tactile and visual aides for teaching or can even be used by the students to develop their understanding of a subject, like design... (More)

Finding the Right 3D Modeling Software For You

Finding the Right 3D Modeling Software For You

MatterHackers
Feb 10, 2015

Looking for the best 3D modeling software? Look no further! This simple guide will solve your problem and get you moving in the right direction.

Whether you are new to 3D design or at the professional level, there are several 3D modeling software packages to meet your needs and level of expertise. Having the correct 3D design software is essential to help create the perfect 3D model. Here is a guide to help you find 3D modeling software that is the best fit for you. These programs are categorized by those looking to create models for artis... (More)

Bed Surfaces: Applying Kapton Tape

Bed Surfaces: Applying Kapton Tape

MatterHackers
Apr 12, 2016

Certain filaments call for certain bed surfaces. Kapton Tape is a key choice for ABS, but it can get tricky when it comes to application. Learn how to apply this sticky tape flawlessly with our helpful tutorial.

Kapton tape is the recommended bed surface for 3D printing ABS filament. The tape protects the bed surface and acts a base layer, while the hair spray or juice provides the adhesion. Kapton tape (a registered trademark of DuPont) is a polyimide film. Created for the aerospace industry in the 1960s, Kapton tape as a flexible adhesive tape that is stable over a wide range of temperature, from ... (More)

3D Printer Troubleshooting Guide

3D Printer Troubleshooting Guide

MatterHackers
Nov 14, 2022

Use this guide to help you identify and solve the most common issues that may occur while 3D printing.

When printing, unexpected challenges may arise that will need to be resolved in order to complete a successful print. Often times, the appropriate response to a printing issue is not immediately apparent. This guide outlines some of the most common issues faced by 3D printing practitioners and highlights steps that may be taken to resolve those issues. If you need some extra guidance,... (More)

3D Printer Nozzle Comparison Guide

3D Printer Nozzle Comparison Guide

Ryan Lutz
May 2, 2017

Swapping your 3D printer's nozzle is one of the easiest upgrades that can be done. Find the right nozzles to add to your collection for your next project as well as how to change a nozzle on your 3D printer.

Nozzles are the last physical item in your printer to touch the filament before it becomes your 3D printed part, so it’s important to understand how they work if you want to take full advantage of the possibilities afforded by the different types. (More)

3D Printer Filament Comparison Guide

3D Printer Filament Comparison Guide

May 30, 2017

There are many different kinds of 3D printer filament, and each one has it's own strengths for different projects. Knowing these differences is key to a successful 3D printing experience and so we have created a Filament Comparison Guide with everything you need to know about every type of filament available.