[SML] 3D printing

[Jon Ares]

Getting into 3D printing can definitely become a rabbit hole, but
things have changed a LOT in the last few years, with major
manufacturers coming out with machines that are 1000% easier to use,
less fussy, incredibly reliable, and almost plug-n-play.  I use a
Bambu Labs P1S, after having gone through many other levels of printer
quality. Today's major players make them so much better and faster
than those build-it-yourself Erector Set printers of a few years ago.

I'd suggest looking at this printer:
https://bambulab.com/en-us/a1-mini as a starter for a child. Any of
the Bambu printers are awesome though - if you decide to get into
production printing, their more advanced printers are awesome.

This company, as well as some others, even have a direct connection to
downloadable 3D models (toys as well as practical) - no CAD work
needed, until you're ready to try designing your own.  A lot of
schools start with things like TinkerCad when they get the kids
starting to make their own designs. I use Vectorworks and Autodesk
Fusion myself, but for a kid, start with downloaded models, then maybe
move to TinkerCad, perhaps.

 - Jon


On Thu, Nov 13, 2025 at 6:34 AM Dan Sheehan via Stagecraft
<stagecraft at theatrical.net> wrote:
>
> A bit off track,
> but seeking info about getting started (from zero)  in 3D printing
>  (for a 10-yer-old granddaughter, as well as myself)
>
> --
> ...Dan Sheehan
> Fixer of things that break
> TD Walpole (MA) Footlighters
> "Four wheel drive enables you to get stuck farther away from help"
>
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Jon Ares
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