3D Printing

New! The Makery’s 3D printers have been upgraded! Our new Bambu printer offers larger build plates and faster print speeds than our previous machines. The 3D print guidelines have been adjusted to reflect the enhanced capabilities of this new setup, including size and time limits.

You submit the 3D design; we print it for you. The 3D printers are part of the Main Library Creative Studio. Before submitting your request, please review the Bambu P1S Printer specifications and the library’s 3D printer guidelines.

Two 3D printers sent on a tabletop with 3D-printed items displayed in between.
Creative Studio Policy

Requesting a 3D print

Before you submit your request, please review these guidelines:

  1. Prints are free. Limit is two prints a month per library card number (one file per request).
  2. File size maximum: 100 MB. Use an STL file simplification tool to reduce it without losing much detail.
  3. File format: STL (.stl) or OBJ (.obj).
  4. Maximum print size: 9.8 by 9.8 by 9.8 inches (or 250 by 250 by 250 millimeters).
  5. Maximum time to print: two hours per print request (requests may be combined for a single four-hour print time).
  6. Maximum material use: up to 80 grams of filament allowed per print request (requests may be combined for a single 160-gram print request).
  7. No custom colors are available.
  8. Files printed as submitted, using rafts and breakaway auto-generated supports as needed. We will contact you if your item must be scaled down.
  9. The library is not responsible for failed 3D prints. We do our best to assist in completing successful 3D prints. For help, request a Learning Lab appointment.
  10. This service provides an introduction to fused deposition modeling (FDM) for hobby-level experiences. We do our best to accommodate all requests and specifications, but cannot guarantee a particular level of precision or customization.

Printing & pickup

  1. Allow at least one week for printing. Items may take longer than expected, depending on demand.
  2. Expect an email from us when your item is ready for pick up in the Main Library Creative Studio.
  3. Your item remains available for pick up on the Creative Studio (Main Library third floor) display for up to one week.

Additional limits & restrictions

  1. The library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
  2. The library’s 3D printer may not be used to create weapons or materials:
    • Prohibited by local, state, or federal law.
    • Unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or that pose an immediate threat to the well-being of others.
    • Inappropriate for the library environment in accordance with library policies.
    • Violating another person’s property rights (cannot reproduce objects or materials that are subject to copyright, patent, or trademark protection).
  3. The library will not be liable for the functional failure of, injuries, or property damage caused by objects or materials made using the 3D printer. We strongly recommend that the 3D printer not be used to make objects that could prove harmful or that would result in significant cost to the user if they fail.

Bambu P1S Printer specifications

Printers have enclosed printing platforms and use Polylactic Acid (PLA) filament. PLA is non-toxic but must be sealed with a food-safe resin or sealant—such as ArtResin epoxy resin—to make it food-safe. Also important to note: PLA will soften and deform in hot water. Hand-wash in cool water only.

Submit your 3D printing request

Name:(Required)
This will be the name used to label your object when it is ready to be picked up.
Please enter your library card number registered with the Oak Park Public Library. Need an Oak Park library card or have questions? Get an Oak Park library card or register your Illinois public library card with us.
This email address must belong to someone ages 13 or older. If you are younger than 13, please have an adult complete this form.
Only one STL or OBJ file will be accepted, 100 MB size limit. Please include your full name in the file name before uploading. Need to reduce the size of your STL file? Use this STL file simplification tool to shrink the file size without losing too much detail on the model.
Accepted file types: stl, obj, 3mf, Max. file size: 100 MB.
Can the library scale down the file to meet our print-time restrictions?(Required)
Please note: Color requests cannot be accommodated. Also, if you are using a file from Thingiverse, please paste the URL in the box below, so staff can use the link for reference in case of an issue.
Review guidelines:(Required)
Your privacy is important to us. We won’t share your email address or contact information with anyone. Read our institutional data policy.

Exploring more: Librarian-curated resources to help you create

Software

  • Tinkercad: Free, web-based 3D design tool for beginner designers that includes lessons and short tutorials on available features. You will need a valid email address to sign up.
  • Bambu Studio: Download this free slicing software to test 3D model files on a virtual Bambu P1S Printer before sending your file to print. 
  • STL file simplification tool: Need to reduce the size of your STL file? Use this to shrink the file size without losing too much detail on the model.

Free STL files

  • Thingiverse: Online community of 3D object designers. Search by keyword or browse collections and categories for design options. STL files can be downloaded even if you are not signed in with a free account.
  • MakerWorld:  Online community of 3D object designers. Search by keyword or browse collections and categories for design options. To download files, you must create a free account.
  • Makers Making Change: Collection of 3D assistive device files. You can browse what has already been made, offer your services to make something for someone else, or ask for help getting a specific aid made for you.
Subscribe to emails
Get a card
Contact us