Hobbyists and DIY roboticists often wonder if their FDM 3D printers can produce parts sturdy enough to stand in for metal. In many cases, 3D printed plastic parts can replace metal – but the success depends on material choice, design, and the application’s demands. This article explores how common filaments like PLA, ABS, and Nylon … Read more
ABS (acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene) and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) are two popular 3D printing materials with very different personalities. ABS is strong and slightly rigid, while TPU feels rubbery and flexible. Fresh off the print bed, both materials usually show visible layer lines. With the right finishing steps—sanding, careful chemical smoothing (ABS only), plus smart priming/painting and … Read more
Choosing the right infill pattern that uses less filament can greatly reduce materialcosts and print time in 3D printing. Whether you’re making prototypes, display pieces, or light-use parts,these infill strategies keep filament usage low without sacrificing basic quality. Why Infill Matters in 3D Printing Infill is the internal structure inside a 3D printed part, providing … Read more
When 3D printing functional parts, one of the most important slicer decisions you will make is choosing the right infill pattern. Among the many available options, two patterns are constantly compared by makers: triangle infill and honeycomb infill. In this guide, we take a deep, practical look at triangles vs honeycomb infill, explaining how each … Read more
3D printing has become a popular hobby for makers, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts. It allows you to create physical objects from digital designs, layer by layer. This beginner-friendly guide will explain what 3D printing is, how it works, and what you need to know to get started. We’ll cover the basics of how 3D printers … Read more
When you’re starting out in 3D printing, it’s easy to wonder if an expensive filament brand is really worth it. After all, PLA is PLA – so is there any difference between a pricey spool from a well-known manufacturer and a cheap no-name spool? This question matters because filament quality can directly affect your print … Read more
PLA is one of the most popular materials for hobbyist 3D printing. It is easy to print and can produce great-looking parts. However, many makers discover a frustrating issue: a perfectly printed PLA object can deform or fail when left inside a hot car. This article explains why PLA prints often warp in high heat … Read more
Important note: This article is written in a more formal and strict tone than most other articles on MakerMyths. The topic involves materials, processes, and exposures that should be taken seriously. The goal is to encourage careful thinking and informed decision-making when working with both resin and FDM 3D printing technologies. The content is observational … Read more
Painting your 3D-printed models adds color and a smooth finish. A raw print often has visible layer lines and rough areas, so painting can make it look polished and protect it from wear and sunlight. By priming first and applying thin coats of paint, even beginners can achieve a strong, even coat of color. With … Read more
Drying filament is one of those beginner topics that sounds like “extra effort”… until you see a print covered in strings, bubbles, or a weird rough texture. Both PLA and PETG can absorb moisture from the air over time. When that moisture hits a hot nozzle, it flashes into steam and can mess with extrusion, … Read more