3D printing is a technology that makes it possible to create objects from plastic filament. First a design is created using computer software, and then this design is sent to the 3D printer. Instead of using paper, a 3D printer uses a strand of plastic. Similar to a hot glue gun, the plastic is heated until it melts. It then is pressed through a nozzle printing thin layers of plastic, stacked one on top of the other until it builds the shape that the user has designed.

3D printing can be used for many different types of projects: art, games, robotics, engineering, and the list goes on. Some printers can create objects so intricate that, without 3D printing, they would be almost impossible to produce.

National City Public Library has two 3D printers, the Lulzbot TAZ 6® and the Lulzbot Mini®. The library offers 3D design classes and makes the printers available for public use at no charge.

In person classes and lab hours are currently on hold. You can still print your 3D files by submitting the .stl file through the Tech Lab form. A staff person will print it and contact you when the print is completed.

The Tech Lab uses TinkerCAD for 3D design. TinkerCAD is a free and user-friendly design platform that allows users to learn the foundations of 3D design quickly. All you need to set up a free account is an email address.

TinkerCAD provides great self paced tutorials. To start learning, go to TinkerCAD and sign in or create a free account. Once logged in click Learn (upper-left corner). Start with the first tutorial, Place It!  and continue through all the rest of the starters. After completing the starters continue on to lessons for more in-depth tutorials. Once you've mastered those start designing your own objects or follow the pumpkin build-along.

• 3D printing is free at this time.
• The library cannot guarantee model quality or stability, or confidentiality of designs.
• You can have one item printed per day, up to 2 hours a day. For print jobs longer than 2 hours, the following guidelines apply:
  • Appointment is required (minimum 1 week notice would be ideal)
  • Staff will review the file to be printed to make sure that it can be completed within 4 hours
• You must remain present for the duration of your printing. This is part of the learning experience - 3D printing is not a service the library offers, it is is an experience through which the library introduces new technology and encourages creativity.
• Machines are available for use on a first come, first served basis. Computers in lab are for scanning and slicing 3D objects only. 3D printing equipment will primarily be operated by staff, though patrons may do so under supervision
• For projects not designed at the library, patron must bring in a flash drive or SD card containing the .stl file(s) for objects to be printed. All files will be inspected and sliced by lab staff prior to printing.
• The library reserves the rights to close down the lab at anytime for programs or maintenance with little or no notice.
• The Library’s 3D printers may be used only for lawful purposes. The public will not be permitted to use the Library’s 3D printers to create material that is:
  • Prohibited by local, state or federal law.
  • Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others. (Such use may violate the terms of use of the manufacturer.)
  • Obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the Library environment.
  • In violation of another’s intellectual property rights. For example, the printers will not be used to reproduce material that is subject to copyright, patent or trademark protection.
• Please note that procedures governing the use of the Library’s 3D printers are subject to change.