3D printer | Imamother

amother

Tue, Dec 03 2024, 9:47 pm

hi, I am thinking to get a 3d printer for my son. can someone who has one tell me a little about it do you need to be connected to the internet the whole time? how does it work etc
thank you!

amother

Aqua

Sun, Dec 22 2024, 12:55 pm

Hi. Bumping this up because I have the same question. Would love to get my 14 year old son. But we don’t know anything about them. I just want to make sure I’m spending money on the right one. Thank you

amother

Foxglove

Sun, Dec 22 2024, 1:04 pm

You don't need internet to use the printer.
You may need internet to use the slicing software on the computer and/or 3D modeling software depending on the printer you buy.
I believe the slicing software is usually able to be downloaded with no internet connection.
I've used Ultimaker Cura software for slicing without internet. I then put the prints on a usb stick or sd card to go straight into the printer. So no internet needed.

I'd recommend ender3pro or a newer model of that printer. It is the most reliable and user friendly.
Amazon basics has decent filament (start with PLA it is easiest to print with). You will also need an adhesive for the printer base (gluestick or harespray). A metal spatula to get prints off the bed should be helpful as well. What I like about the ender is that it has a removable bed which makes part removal really easy.

Good Luck!

-someone who worked in a 3d printing lab