3 Reasons Why You Should Start 3D Printing
I have used my recently purchased 3D printer to create some fun designs, but I didn't always see the benefit.
Several years ago, I got a 3D printer and was devastated when I couldn't get the results I was looking for. I found I was spending more time tuning and calibrating the machine than actually printing. In frustration, I turned away from it as a viable option till recently.
I have now seen the light and believe that a 3D Printer is becoming an essential tool for Makers and here are 3 Reasons why.
Reason 1: Create Precise, Intricate Pieces
You may have a better hand for fine details than I do, but I've always struggled to get the little details the way I pictured.
3D Printers can print such tiny details with incredible precision. This allows you to create small parts that would be extremely time-consuming to do by hand and likely lead to hours of frustration. If you like to customize your tools or workspace, creating precise pieces becomes essential.
The ability to create a precise piece in the exact shape you need opens so many opportunities to improve your projects.
Reason 2: Quickly Iterate On Designs
If you live by measure twice, cut once, then you would benefit from fast part iteration.
Granted, this involves CAD modeling, but most designs include variables that can be updated quickly and easily with a simple adjustment. We've all had a part that is slightly out of shape, and changing a small part can seem tedious. Printing your parts allows you to truly multitask by outsourcing the fabrication of part iterations and freeing you up for other tasks.
When you can iterate parts quickly, the fear of a part not fitting is mitigated, and you're free to continue coming up with more ideas.
Reason 3: Batch Multiple Copies Of The Same Part
Whether you are creating the same product to sell multiple times or want to keep continuity throughout a Star Wars room build, you'll want to have the same part multiple times.
As good as you may be at cutting parts by hand, it is impossible to continuously create parts identically over several days or months without computer-aided manufacturing. With 3D printing, you can keep the same file and print it as many times as you want. Additionally, you can create slightly modified pieces based on the original models, which retain the same fittings.
If you can't stand creating the same thing multiple times, your sanity will thank you for getting a 3D printer.
