FlashPrint 5
Before we can print a virtual 3D model, we must first convert the model into GCODE. Essentially, a GCODE file is a set of directions for the printer to follow. To effect this conversion we use a software program commonly referred to as a "slicer." FlashPrint 5 is one example of a slicer. Others are Cura, PrusaSlicer, and Kiri:Moto. All of these are free. FlashPrint 5 converts your model into layers (or slices) that the printer then lays down one by one until the model is finished.
Lesson: Downloading, installing and setting up FlashPrint 5
Assignment: Download, install and set up FlashPrint 5
- Using the preceding lesson as a guide, download, install, and set up FlashPrint 5
- On the the Google Classroom site, post any questions or comments you have about downloading, installing, and setting up FlashPrint 5
Lesson: Slicing the 20mm box model
- Slicing the 20mm box model (video)
Lesson: Looking at GCODE
- Looking at GCODE (slideshow)
- Top 10 GCODE commands for 3D printing (video)
Lesson: Slicing and printing the snake model
- Slicing and printing the snake model (video)
Lesson: Making a lithophane
Assignment: Make a lithophane
- Using the preceding lesson as a guide, create and print a lithophane from an original photo
- Take clear, detailed photos of your backlit lithophane
- Email me the photos of your backlit lithophane
Lesson: Vase mode
Vase mode printing, also called spiralized outer contour printing, refers to the technique of producing a model in a single continuous filament extrusion. Models created in this way print very fast but can be quite fragile because of their single-walled structure. Note that vase mode can be used for things other than vases: lamp shades, bracelets, napkin rings, storage boxes...even toy rockets!
- Vase mode (slideshow)
- Vase mode 3D models (collection)
Assignment: Make a hollow box
- Using the preceding lesson as a guide, print a hollow box
- Take clear, detailed photos of your printed model
- Email me the photos of your hollow box
Lesson: Pausing a print to change colors
- Pausing a print to change colors (slideshow)
- Printing in two colors (video)
Assignment: Make a multicolor print
- Using the preceding lesson as a guide, print a model in at least two colors
- Take clear, detailed photos of your printed model
- Email me the photos of your multicolor print
Lesson: Supports
- Supports and rafts (slideshow)
Resources: Flashprint 5 and slicer settings
- Flashprint 5 user guide (pdf)
- Flashprint 5 (website)
- Print quality troubleshooting guide (website)