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
PLA and PETG are two of the most popular 3D-printing materials for hobbyists. Both are easy to print on machines like the Ender 3 or Prusa Mini, but they behave very differently under load. PLA is strong and rigid, while PETG is tougher and more forgiving. (Note: PLA+ exists as a tougher version of PLA, … Read more
The infill pattern inside your 3D print has a huge impact on strength, print time, and material use. In this guide we’ll look at five popular PLA infill patterns: Lines, Grid, Triangles, Cubic, and Gyroid. We’ll compare their strength, speed, and best-use cases so you can pick the right one for each print. Basic Idea: … Read more
Getting the first layer right is crucial – it’s the foundation of your print. If that layer sticks well and is flat, the rest of the model usually builds nicely. If not, you’ll end up with warps, lifted corners or a failed print from the start. In PLA printing, the main culprits tend to be … Read more
ABS (strong and slightly rigid) and TPU (soft and flexible) are awesome filaments, but both can show visible layer lines after printing. The good news: with a few simple finishing techniques, you can take your parts from “fresh off the printer” to smooth, clean, and ready for display or real-world use. This beginner guide covers … Read more
How to Smooth PLA and PETG 3D Prints (What Actually Works) PLA and PETG are two of the most popular 3D printing materials, but both tend to show visible layer lines after printing. While they look similar, they behave very differently when it comes to smoothing. This guide explains how to smooth PLA and PETG … Read more
Working on finishing FDM prints at home can turn rough, layer-marked parts into smooth, glossy creations. By using techniques like careful sanding, coatings, or heat, hobbyists can achieve a “glass-like” smooth surface even on PETG or PLA prints. This guide covers practical, beginner-friendly methods to smooth PLA and PETG 3D prints, comparing what works (and … Read more