Welcome to 3D Printing! 🎉

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, builds physical objects layer by layer from digital files.

![3D Printer in action](https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/code-490cd.firebasestorage.app/o/lesson-images%2F3dp-fund-1-1%2Fintro.jpg?alt=media "A 3D printer creating an object layer by layer")

> [!INFO] > 3D printing is revolutionizing manufacturing, from prototyping to producing custom parts on demand.

How 3D Printing Works

Design - Create a 3D model in software
Slice - Convert the model into layers
Print - The printer builds layer by layer
Finish - Remove supports and clean up

Common Technologies

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)

Melts plastic filament through a hot nozzle
Most affordable and common
Great for functional parts

> [!TIP] > FDM printers are perfect for beginners - they're affordable and the materials (PLA filament) are easy to work with!

SLA/Resin (Stereolithography)

Uses UV light to cure liquid resin
Higher detail and smooth surfaces
Great for miniatures and jewelry

> [!WARNING] > Resin printing requires proper ventilation and safety equipment. The liquid resin can be toxic before it's cured.

What You'll Learn

✅ Designing for FDM printing constraints
✅ Understanding scale and tolerances
✅ Creating support-free designs
✅ Exporting print-ready STL files

> [!IMPORTANT] > By the end of this course, you'll be able to create your own 3D printable designs from scratch!

Key Takeaways

Learn what 3D printing is and how it works

Ready to practice? Click "Mark Complete" and move to the next lesson to apply what you've learned.

Lesson 1 of 4 in Understanding 3D Printing