3D printing

Machines

Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ 3D printer

Resources and guides: [1]

Software

PrusaSlicer

To manipulate models/STL files and create Gcode file(3d printable file)

Tinkercad

used to create simple 3d models for printing, can also be used to modify existing models.

Thingiverse

open source, free website/database of 3d models for 3d printing.

Getting an stl file

• Media width 500mm
• Pull up lever towards you
• Align rollers to match width of media (match up to the white bars along the top)
• Insert vinyl roll/sheet with the matt side facing up (shiny side down)
• Push back lever away from you (makes a loud click)
• Press the UP arrow to read the media width

Decal Vinyl - Signage

• Media width 600mm
• Pull up lever towards you
• Align rollers to match width of media (match up to the white bars along the top)
• Insert vinyl roll/sheet with the colour side facing up (matt side down)
• Push back lever away from you (makes a loud click)
• Press the UP arrow to read the media width

Type Based Design

How to covert type (font) to outline

• Open Inkscape
• Type the word
• Select and change the font (don't worry about the size of the font)
• Select the word by highlighting it
• Go to menu PATH > OBJECT TO PATH
• The word is now a path (not editable)
• Got to menu FILE > SAVE AS > select file type .DXF
• Save file

How to cut design

• Open Great Cut
• Go to menu FILE > IMPORT
• Locate the .DXF file
• Select the design by highlighting it
• Resize the artwork using the toolbar settings H x W
• Move the artwork to the bottom left of the canvas (XY)
• IMPORTANT - IF CUTTING FOR HEAT VINYL ENSURE DESIGN IS FLIPPED TO REVERSE
• Select the design by highlighting it
• Go to menu FILE > OUTPUT
• Load media into cutter (see above)
• Click CHECK MEDIA WIDTH and ensure that the size displayed on the software matches the media width on the machine
• If message JOB WILL BE SEGMENTED appears, reload the media (adjusting rollers and placement) or resize the artwork to fit
• Click OUTPUT to start cutting