3D Printing for Dummies

by Kirk Hausman

Get started printing out 3D objects quickly and inexpensively! 3D printing is no longer just a figment of your imagination. This remarkable technology is coming to the masses with the growing availability of 3D printers. 3D printers create 3-dimensional layered models and they allow users to create prototypes that use multiple materials and colors.  This friendly-but-straightforward guide examines each type of 3D printing technology available today and gives artists, entrepreneurs, engineers, and hobbyists insight into the amazing things 3D printing has to offer. You’ll discover methods for the creation of 3D printable objects using software, 3D scanners, and even photographs with the help of this timely For Dummies  guide. 3D Printing For Dummies is the must-have guide to make manufacturing your own dynamic designs a dream come true!

Genres: Nonfiction, Technology

368 pages, Paperback

First published September 16, 2013

Reviews

[Jane · Rating 1 out of 5]

not helpful for someone who wants to learn HOW to use a 3D printer and already has one. Half of the book was about possible applications, the other half on how to build a machine.

[Daniel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to read 3d printing for dummies after I got a 3d printer or at least had the parts to build a 3d printer. But, I decided to read it even though I don't have a 3d printer or parts to build a 3d printer. I figure its better to learn about 3d printing before I get into 3d printing.

My favorite part of the book is exploring the business side of 3d printing. I had never considered how 3d printing might impact manufacturing. it will be interesting to see what happens. My favorite section of chapter 6 is crafting personal store fronts. I had heard of shapeways but, I had not heard of ponoko.

i had no idea there there were different types of 3d printers. i thought they were all the same kind. I am glad I know different now.

I did not build the printer that the authors built in the book. But, it was interesting to learn how a 3d printer is built. I never knew that 3d printer kits. I thought all 3d printers came per-built or had to be built front scratch. I also enjoyed learning about the different software that needs to be used with 3d printing. And I am glad a lot of its open-source.

If I ever get a 3d printer I want to use it to build radio control cars, trucks, boats, motorcycles, and drones. And I also want to print cookies, pizza, decorate cakes.

Its seems like using a 3d printer might be harder than I thought. But, once I got used to it I hope it will be easier. I hope that I get into 3d printing. I want to build my fist 3d printer from a kit.

I learned a lot about 3d printing from 3d printing for dummies. Now all I need is a 3d printer so I can put all the information to use.

That reminds me that maybe about 3 years ago I read a book about tinkercad. I wanted to learn how to use tinkercad but, I had no interest in 3d printing. Now though I am interesting in getting into 3d printing. What a difference 3 years can make.

[Jim Razinha · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve considered getting a 3D printer for a while but haven’t wanted to put in the research. That and I’ve been a little intimidated. My son got one, has made some pretty incredible things (including an orrery based on an actual exosolar system), I apparently was enthusiastic about on my birthday (there was beer involved, and my wife said “the filaments are coming tomorrow [Saturday], and the printer will be here on Monday).

So… I now have a 3D printer. And I figured I had better start with some basic info.

This book is eight years old and as with a lot of technology, is a little out of date. And much was out of the scope of my immediate interest - marketing and commoditization of printed objects, different types of printing, building a printer from scratch (that was cool, but did I mention I already have one?) Not as much value as Ike hoped but a few definitions and jargon.

[Hom Sack · Rating 5 out of 5]

More detailed than I needed for an introduction to the subject, but would be useful for someone who wants to take the next step.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always, very informative. Will be buying this one.

[Zach · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book ended up not being helpful to me. I had recently purchased a 3D printer and was looking for something more tactical about how to properly use a 3D printer.

If you've heard 3D printing mentioned, but want to learn about what it is, possible applications, and then possibly build your own, this book is for you. Unfortunately that was not what I was after.

[Thurston · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the worst dummy book i have read....confusing with zero discussion of costs.
Lots of this is what the future will look like...ok cool....
Little to none on time, costs and skill needed for personal 3d printing.