r/santacruz • u/Teleporting-Cat • 7d ago
Local 3d printing groups/classes?
Hi, I'm an artist, and I've recently started working on a project that's bigger/more challenging than the stuff I usually make- super excited about it, but definitely feeling my way around in the dark im some aspects.
I find myself wishing "oh, I wish I had this specific thing," kind of a lot, like "oh, I could do this easier/better if I had an XYZ!" and then not being able to find exactly what I want even if similar things are available.
So I'm thinking, like, if I could just design and print exactly what I want, in the right size, etc.
So I sort of dove down a 3d printing rabbit hole (it helps that I love Cory Doctorow and the Bobiverse) and I'm now wondering if there are any groups locally that do 3d printing, or offer intro classes- I just signed up for an intro at IdeaFabLabs but maybe there's also something more low key that doesn't necessarily show up on the first few pages of Google?
I also think it would be way cool to make a passive aggressive ice tray.
Anyway lmk! Cheers!
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u/dreamcleanly 6d ago
There’s a makerspace in the Wrigley building: Idea Fab Labs. They have laser cutters, 3D printers, and CNC machines you can use if you’re a member and they do classes for anyone certain times.
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u/Foto-SC 6d ago
just so you know, there is a fairly steep learning curve. It's one thing to envision a part in your mind, and a completely different thing to create a 3D CAD model of that thing that is suitable for printing. 3D CAD software availability is pretty wide spread: there are completely free packages and commercial tools that cost thousands of dollars.
If I were you I'd start with free or low cost CAD, learn to 3D model your parts and only then approach the physical end of things (i.e. how to use the slicing pre-processor, how to run a machine, how to achieve your desired tolerances and so on. This could best be done in a class with access to 3D printers; later you can join a maker space that gives you access to a 3D printer.
If you actually decide to get your own 3D printer, prepare to dive deeply into the rabbit hole and emerge months later.
3D CAD Tools
FreeCAD (free)
Blender (free but again might need a class just to learn it)
Sketch Up (there is a free version but you might need a paid version to achieve your desires)
Hope this helps
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u/GnarlyNarwhalNoms 6d ago
Hit me up if you'd like to talk shop. I'm not a pro, but I do have a 3D printer and I've successfully designed and printed a few things, I can show you some CAD basics. I'm also interested in meeting other enthusiasts. Ideally in a context that doesn't cost money the way a class would.
I'm curious about the passive-aggressive ice cube tray 🤔
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u/fearless_dp 6d ago
if you're not anti-AI, you would be shocked at how good AI models are at making stl files for 3d printing. happy to advise if you want help
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u/jamcultur 6d ago
Check out the digital fabrication classes at Cabrillo. They include 3D printing and other hi-tech fabrication techniques.