3D Printing

You submit the 3D design, we print it for you. Before submitting your request, please review the MakerBot Sketch specifications and the library’s 3D printer guidelines.

MakerBot Sketch specifications

Printers have an 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.

3D printing guidelines

Before you submit your request, please review these guidelines:

1. Prints are free. Per patron limit is two prints a month (one file per request).
2. File size maximum: 100 MB. Use a STL file simplification tool to reduce it without losing much detail.
3. File format: STL (.stl)
4. Maximum print size: 5.5 inches by 5.5 inches by 5.5 inches (or 140 millimeters by 140 millimeters by 140 millimeters).
5. Maximum time to print: four hours per print job.
6. No custom colors are available.
7. Files printed as submitted, using rafts and breakaway auto-generated supports as needed. We will contact you if your item must be scaled down.
8. 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.
9. This service provides an introduction to fused deposition modeling, or 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 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.

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 functional failure of, or injuries or property damage caused by, objects or materials made through the use of 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.

Submit your 3D printing request

Explore 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.
• SketchUp Free: Free, web-based 3D design tool that includes a variety of tools particularly useful for architectural designs.
• Blender: Free and open-source 3D computer graphics software toolset used for creating animated films, visual effects, art, 3D-printed models, motion graphics, interactive 3D applications, virtual reality, and video games.
• 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.