diff --git a/StaticData/OEMSettings/BannerFeed.json b/StaticData/OEMSettings/BannerFeed.json index c331b2f64..78df90fb0 100644 --- a/StaticData/OEMSettings/BannerFeed.json +++ b/StaticData/OEMSettings/BannerFeed.json @@ -1,21 +1,27 @@ { "Content": [ { - "content_type": "headline", - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/explore", - "text": "Explore 3D Printing at MatterHackers" - }, - { - "content_type": "banner_image", - "image_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2yEiigWrAXQpvjBGhQllSItRTUA8s4ScTmn1dY20KO6jgxsrifoZ3L6MLy54yoAaKvleXjpdNfwKnJcK4yf210jQiJQ=w1520-h170", - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series", - "theme_filter": "light" - }, - { - "content_type": "banner_image", - "image_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2yEiigWrAXQpvjBGhQllSItRTUA8s4ScTmn1dY20KO6jgxsrifoZ3L6MLy54yoAaKvleXjpdNfwKnJcK4yf210jQiJQ=w1520-h170", - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series", - "theme_filter": "dark" + "banner_list": [ + { + "content_type": "banner_image", + "image_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/2yEiigWrAXQpvjBGhQllSItRTUA8s4ScTmn1dY20KO6jgxsrifoZ3L6MLy54yoAaKvleXjpdNfwKnJcK4yf210jQiJQ=w1520-h170", + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series", + "theme_filter": "all" + }, + { + "content_type": "banner_image", + "image_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LS-CkJVjvmctT1w7MBIarRKYeyjIyBJXcyMXkcVpSbbrVhhO0m8ELo7AU8RDuIudviqZw-EAbUK5u5J8TiGXbN_GlQ=w1520-h170", + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/3d-printer-filament-compare", + "theme_filter": "all" + }, + { + "content_type": "banner_image", + "image_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Gax2F8Eaxfp_xrVECCmanlhVSWzQ34sUI0M7ImmUwNMWdGHZqsXw3lbF84uGv3dOnXuAtzoNTkapcxuv5RKA9Wwj5A=w1520-h170", + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/articles/anatomy-of-a-3d-printer", + "theme_filter": "all" + } + ], + "content_type": "banner_rotate" } ], "Status": "success" diff --git a/StaticData/OEMSettings/ExploreFeed.json b/StaticData/OEMSettings/ExploreFeed.json index 376356c78..ea4c1dc61 100644 --- a/StaticData/OEMSettings/ExploreFeed.json +++ b/StaticData/OEMSettings/ExploreFeed.json @@ -1,1372 +1,1385 @@ { - "Content": [ + "Content": [ + { + "content_type": "headline", + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/explore", + "text": "Explore 3D Printing at MatterHackers" + }, + { + "content_type": "product_group", + "group_items": [ { - "content_type": "headline", - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/explore", - "text": "Explore 3D Printing at MatterHackers" + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series", + "subtitle": "MH Build Series 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", + "title": "MH Build Series Filament" }, { - "content_type": "product_group", - "group_items": [ - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series", - "subtitle": "MH Build Series 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", - "title": "MH Build Series Filament" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series-pla", - "subtitle": "MH Build Series PLA 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer PLA plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", - "title": "MH Build Series PLA" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series-abs", - "subtitle": "MH Build Series ABS 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer ABS plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", - "title": "MH Build Series ABS" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series-petg", - "subtitle": "MH Build Series PETG 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer PETG plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", - "title": "MH Build Series PETG" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20Filament", - "subtitle": "MatterHackers PRO Series Filaments are engineered to highlight the strengths of 3D printer filament. Manufactured to the tightest tolerances and made in the USA.", - "title": "PRO Series Filament" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20series%20PLA", - "subtitle": "PRO Series PLA 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer PLA plastic available for producing professional, high quality 3D printed parts. Made in the USA.", - "title": "PRO Series PLA" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20ABS", - "subtitle": "PRO Series ABS filament is a formulation of ABS plastic intended to help your 3D prints stand out with a beautiful, glossy, opaque finish. Made in the USA.", - "title": "PRO Series ABS" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20PETG", - "subtitle": "PRO Series PETG filament is an industrial strength filament that combines the ease of use of PLA filament with the strength and durability of ABS filament.", - "title": "PRO Series PETG" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20Flex", - "subtitle": "MatterHackers PRO Series Flex 3D printer filament brings all the benefits of flexible filament together with improved strength over other flexible filaments.", - "title": "PRO Series Flex" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20Nylon", - "subtitle": "MatterHackers PRO Series Nylon offers the strength and durability of Nylon 3D printer filament now in vibrant colors. Made in the USA.", - "title": "PRO Series Nylon" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/pro-series-ryno", - "subtitle": "Ryno filament is excellent at bridging as well as retraction to keep all of your parts clean without any need for post-processing. ", - "title": "PRO Series Ryno" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/NylonX", - "subtitle": "", - "title": "NylonX" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PLA", - "subtitle": null, - "title": "PLA Filament" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/ABS", - "subtitle": null, - "title": "ABS Filament" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Carbon%20Fiber%20Reinforced%20PLA", - "subtitle": null, - "title": "Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/ColorFabb%20Fill%20Series", - "subtitle": null, - "title": "ColorFabb Fill Series" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/NinjaTek", - "subtitle": "", - "title": "NinjaTek" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Soft%20PLA", - "subtitle": null, - "title": "Soft PLA" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/TPU%20%28Thermoplastic%20Polyurethane%29", - "subtitle": "TPU is a strong yet bendable filament that has excellent layer to layer bonding that does not allow for any layer separation.", - "title": "PRO Series TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Taulman%203D", - "subtitle": "", - "title": "Taulman 3D" - }, - { - "icon_url": null, - "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Ultimaker%20Materials", - "subtitle": "", - "title": "Ultimaker Materials" - } - ], - "group_link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/3d-printer-filament", - "group_subtitle": "Browse a huge largest selection of filament", - "group_title": "Order Materials", - "icon_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/duqniQxZ90IJccrsx7svHLZGjRttWPExcxwfhD-_t927_1hnIBr1Cm803F6nZG3fIpKbmrZbyk_G_ekDCHjNfoCgIg" - }, + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series-pla", + "subtitle": "MH Build Series PLA 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer PLA plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", + "title": "MH Build Series PLA" + }, { - "content_type": "article_group", - "group_items": [ - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Mar 21, 2018", - "description": "Get your workbench organized with these awesome 3D printed tools!", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Bs9JGa8Dj7qrc2bJkaTgVl3J5UBwbZxlX4vlEgSt3Cp_dD60pJpwz4yJvIadPnF_RAS0RIxBqfZbxVE2i5OwY7OzTg", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7wOHz0dNb5gVbYm6iKg0KQ4g3bHno1329h4gkc7lj9-r5I-JEBf0t7xNsZQ3bbouTA_z8AXA-4U4p-z8AJJynBhtew", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPjZ5LgKDA", - "preview": "

If you're anything like me, your workbench is either in a state of chaos or meticulously organized for about 30 seconds before I start my next project. With this collection of workbench and pegboard related 3D models, hopefully my bench and yours spend just a little more time clean and tidy.

", - "reference": "top-ten-3d-prints-for-your-workbench", - "title": "Top Ten 3D Prints For Your Workbench", - "url": "/articles/top-ten-3d-prints-for-your-workbench" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Feb 21, 2018", - "description": "Follow this step-by-step process that uses 3D printing\u00a0to create molds for parts that contain complex curves or multiple facets.\u00a0", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ID4I4ea4VT7OSpBaqV-O2LDI9Wc8txr3Z0MXPRfzb5XkcaiglbLy9tE-40cM1MX5hHviRQHFHlUz3ahMoCLd3-aJBEY", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TzFfenblY6s09OiO6NP54aIhTdsPgX2pqmWbBO_qYgYacIID53aFCyj0q2oOPdwz-HYMhCmVdYdG3gC4kV5VDAN4ew", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMbwv7wKDA", - "preview": "

This is the second in a series about making silicone molds for 3D prints. If you missed the first one, you can read it here.

", - "reference": "how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-two-part-silicone-molds", - "title": "How To:\u00a0Use 3D Printing to Make Two-Part Silicone Molds", - "url": "/articles/how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-two-part-silicone-molds" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Feb 5, 2018", - "description": "MatterHackers' Pro, Alec Richter, unboxes and sets up the awesome Peopoly Moai SLA 3D printer.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MpGHMMXw4cRypvQcxCvOqyO3XDceOANPPuLlM8_bdKjNIePSBbgYtsJ6Rse5NLxDCN2MUS_z6vCUTtp0MqvDBMlY9LI", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MpGHMMXw4cRypvQcxCvOqyO3XDceOANPPuLlM8_bdKjNIePSBbgYtsJ6Rse5NLxDCN2MUS_z6vCUTtp0MqvDBMlY9LI", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMrEvaAKDA", - "preview": "

There are many different kinds of 3D printers out there, with most of them based around heating up and extruding molten plastic. These are great for large, relatively low details prints, but what if you need a small, super detailed model like a ring: enter SLA 3D printers. Rather than use plastic, they use a photosensitive resin, which is a technical way of saying it uses a laser to solidify the resin.

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The Peopoly Moai is an SLA 3D printer that got its start through Kickstarter, and unlike most, it delivered only three months after the Kickstarter successfully finished. At $1295 for a kit or $1995 for a fully assembled Moai, it’s one of the cheapest SLA printers out there. As a kit it’s really easy to put together, even for someone that’s never assembled a 3D Printer kit before. Being an SLA printer vs an FDM printer, there are some things about your workflow that will need to be different in order to print with it successfully. Let’s dive into what exactly is different and the experience of working with the Peopoly Moai SLA 3D Printer, from unboxing to first fully-cured print.

", - "reference": "how-to-get-started-with-the-peopoly-moai-sla-3d-printer", - "title": "Getting Started with the Peopoly Moai SLA 3D Printer", - "url": "/articles/how-to-get-started-with-the-peopoly-moai-sla-3d-printer" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Oct 25, 2017", - "description": "We've assembled some easy prints to get you started with flexible materials, like MatterHackers' PRO Series Flex, Soft PLA, and NinjaTek. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nmwb1WwQaS6x_d-oeUTObMXCcfUgGYpsNgbg0Spl6z9_1Nx-M5lM_i-1xW-b_g5IZ_58OFPnvmISAiars9o5jBLQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vfkRm29kbLTW8Zm9DSbRyEev5enlP73F0kHlI8rwRl31q-AibjoNEUnkK0WZfoK5LsDMuRaygR7Iyq-n0V2ktF3FD28", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwJzgyaoKDA", - "preview": "

It's time to take the next step in your 3D printing journey and start printing with flexible materials! Using flexible filament allows you to expand your 3D printing projects - sometimes you need a little elasticity and bend for them. All flexible materials are thermoplastic elastomers that have a rubber-like feel once printer, making them perfect for things like custom sized gaskets and stoppers, phone cases, and more! 

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Below is a list of ideas for some quick and easy prints to get you started with flexible filament. Now, flexible 3D filament can be a little tricky to print with, so we've created a guide for you. Learn How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament here! 

", - "reference": "easy-flexible-3d-prints", - "title": "Five Easy Print Ideas To Get You Started With Flexible Filament", - "url": "/articles/easy-flexible-3d-prints" - }, - { - "author": "Mike Campos & Tyler Anderson", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Oct 25, 2017", - "description": "MatterHackers' in-house 3D Printer Technician, Mike Campos, is using 3D printing to\u00a0develop an affordable prosthetic hand that can be controlled by muscle sensors.\u00a0", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CR6M8rNwRE_vu4khlYVJ_p-xSw_5OzVWKaRCVoc62GB96sFaa8RRVkLqQBkfEM6NXQ5OjtgkVVlPLo4vD3Lwh6z-", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KERuzy_H7pYV0-sGqp47GM6nVTfbn4QdaIHnTzAp60HUFU6Dnb_0qXa9aNTC_5VE0A5RNO7BjbWjINNaP3EpcYMPnLQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwOya56kJDA", - "preview": "

When my son, Carter, turned to me and asked “Daddy, will you build me a hand?”, I didn’t know how to respond. Carter has a congenital below the elbow amputation. Simply put, he was born without his right hand. It was because of his request that I discovered the world of 3D printing.

", - "reference": "the-future-of-3d-printed-prosthetic-hands", - "title": "The Future of 3D Printed Prosthetic Hands", - "url": "/articles/the-future-of-3d-printed-prosthetic-hands" - }, - { - "author": "Dave Gaylord", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Oct 12, 2017", - "description": "Break into 3D carving and make a customized wooden cutting board to step up your culinary game and woodworking skills. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EWbjMpkDS1BIm6jKn1JdTTdEOHvxl2x3bW8oLIW3NnhqkkqDwhLnmal4F8aJobaJZlTQ6kpMUPnrZegngXTSVc7J", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VUEKAwbQIjcBYPfyp6-QRJiLl1BasSt4GxmJ8HsGphrvw6zoxWMbG5vFyv1Yoo1p1Cl7i-ePjkXrOytQWZydOpyjmA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwIzFrrcKDA", - "preview": "

Who doesn't want a custom cutting board?  And with the holidays right around the corner, it's time to start thinking of things that earn you serious brownie points with your loved ones - enter your Inventables Carvey and the customized cutting board project. 

", - "reference": "how-to-create-a-custom-3d-carved-cutting-board", - "title": "How To: Create A Custom 3D Carved Cutting Board", - "url": "/articles/how-to-create-a-custom-3d-carved-cutting-board" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Oct 4, 2017", - "description": "If you're a 3D printing enthusiast, you know the pain of having lots of empty filament spools. Finally, make use of them with the Spool Tool - 3D printed storage solution.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mS_FEIyIGib75ZrChat9Uq2LF-ikaS0upAwAAfrq6YJeRauRBCm-anjjZ8a2LDRMyC6HUEOVXlfWfZagtkW-d3E2", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/B3b-hCyldfvBpJKYQTW1y3A_uHI6OEjAWiTh8E4lVw-sEUsKfLx6a4B7OMmyF4Z5xNHNF3zQw9rZxB_ECU395Dum", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPSUmOUIDA", - "preview": "

If you’re like me, you hoard your empty spools even though you aren’t really sure what to do with them. Not only that, my desk is always a scattered mess of tools, nozzles, bearings, SD cards, USB sticks - you name it - no matter how nicely I try to keep them organized. That’s why I put together this Spool Tool. By combining leftover spools with my scattered mess, I was able to knock out two birds with one stone. Read along to see how to assemble your Spool Tool and turn your desk of despair into a neatly organized workspace.

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", - "reference": "how-to-make-use-of-empty-filament-spools-for-organization", - "title": "How To: Make Use Of Empty Filament Spools for Organization", - "url": "/articles/how-to-make-use-of-empty-filament-spools-for-organization" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Oct 11, 2017", - "description": "Learn how to dye your nylon 3D printed parts to make the perfect custom color in this step-by-step guide. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MOysuNNvgnahMfFiBWarF5x1FMbQLPJX1FYTTNo75G7C-ylPJBVA19oFqUE0zOniUBER27SsGfMJ24vC6dWouF-DWuE", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9vfzk1_l6qvVKhgXLOs0Y777RwEevDCAWwbpE_GrZtPVkptr9ORwhcq_BJkpjFlwB6RuDWF27YqHaELp1TYgXEy-0g", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMyivqAKDA", - "preview": "

Not very long ago, nylon was available in only a couple colors: black, natural, and if you’re lucky, white. Now, you can get nylon in a variety of colors in our PRO Series Nylon, like red, orange, green, blue, white, gray, or black. While there are certainly more options to choose from, there aren’t nearly as many colors when compared to filament like PLA, ABS, or PETG. What are you supposed to do if you need a printed part with the strength, flexibility, and durability of nylon, but you need a color that you’ve only been able to find in PLA? Simple, dye it! Dyeing plastics is really easy and is something I’ve been doing for years for cosplay.

", - "reference": "how-to-dye-nylon-3d-prints", - "title": "How To: Dye Nylon 3D Prints", - "url": "/articles/how-to-dye-nylon-3d-prints" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Aug 27, 2017", - "description": "Follow this step-by-step process that uses 3D printing to create molds for projects that require fast turn-around and consistency. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vC8tHbEFXwpfLG-PXJZK3F0mkq3qLS7gVYv6tdUO-ZOZRfx7POy_tkoNnvqfjniT3sFGBaekVftUxHUiIJS_W_7ikAY", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Do0zaNeImwpfJX3txx_0G-xBf8TO8-6OzFLy8tF_7j9GDmIXMlW0ifzSWv4t12fTb4vur-u33oCk-aUYRLy4pL2x6w", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwISk3boKDA", - "preview": "

With 3D printing, you have the ability to take something you've thought of, make it in a virtual setting, and then make it a reality. It's not a new idea, but it's so much more accessible. You can print after-market parts for your car, fancy or \"pop-culturey\" knobs for your kitchen, customized badges for your car, and so much more. The possibilities are endless for creativity, but 3D printing can take a long time. If you have friends, family, or potential customers all interested in one model that's really time intense, it'll take a while to print it all. The solution: use 3D printing to make a mold.

", - "reference": "how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-open-face-silicone-molds", - "title": "How To: Use 3D Printing To Make Open-Face Silicone Molds", - "url": "/articles/how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-open-face-silicone-molds" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Sep 10, 2017", - "description": "Learn how to make your PETG 3D prints shine or look like authentic models in this informative finishing guide. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PPxiHtDFx_p0pG-5FantxIbutv_YUoDKeN9W-l98KGxSuApOrsfW2W7-PAJA1NvFpxjp7kCAl8M8Srzg0F32X4pz42o", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PPxiHtDFx_p0pG-5FantxIbutv_YUoDKeN9W-l98KGxSuApOrsfW2W7-PAJA1NvFpxjp7kCAl8M8Srzg0F32X4pz42o", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMSb4-EIDA", - "preview": "

What is PETG 3D Filament?

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PETG is an abbreviation for Polyethylene Terephthalate (with a glycol modification) which is one of the most common polymers used today. It’s used to make water bottles, food packaging, and countless other common plastic items. As a 3D printing filament, PETG plastic has proven its worth as a durable material that is easy to use. Figuratively speaking, it combines the most useful characteristics of ABS 3D filament (the rigidity and mechanical properties for functional parts) with the ease of printing that PLA filament affords. Kind of a “best of both worlds” scenario. But how easy is it to finish? You can sand, use filler, or use epoxy resins for PLA and ABS, but what can you do to finish PETG?

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", - "reference": "how-to-post-processing-petg-3d-filament", - "title": "How To: Post-Processing PETG 3D Filament", - "url": "/articles/how-to-post-processing-petg-3d-filament" - }, - { - "author": "Mara Hitner", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Aug 21, 2017", - "description": "Find out the necessary components to create an effective space for your maker community.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_ujn2jGVsAbjSFBtHJvQNXqTq7aUT5mgrZO928Jrg8Fy65L3_YIbSDyetkDUYWvZ7mlpcxt8PNq3QjCfFA_qF4PD", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q1mZsv51cBz60H2qMfUSN50krVYEB-D3vY5csfYa8EmzjW5fjdco2s-XdSFeRBlaiBj03vTzI0uJO-R_akq9OfYT", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPjkt6cKDA", - "preview": "

The rise of the “makerspace” (aka FabLab, hackerspace, etc.) means more people of all ages and backgrounds can have access to tips and technology to make anything they can imagine into reality.  This is great for personal projects and “tinkering”, but gets truly powerful and urgent when you also open the opportunity to learn real-world skills for the job market of today and tomorrow.

", - "reference": "how-to-build-a-successful-makerspace", - "title": "How To Build A Successful Makerspace", - "url": "/news/how-to-build-a-successful-makerspace" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Feb 27, 2013", - "description": "Let's dive into the details of 3D printing with PLA filament. We will discuss what PLA plastic is and how to make it work with your printer, how to find the right temperature and what surfaces to print on.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qe0fe5d8YmBkND7B-bj_5L6uvdJbFIGDWFX27aso3l4-uZ8-cN5vh2eFWacZtjxDj1DWbSYA8Olp9OWxwBRvKH2_j8I", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qe0fe5d8YmBkND7B-bj_5L6uvdJbFIGDWFX27aso3l4-uZ8-cN5vh2eFWacZtjxDj1DWbSYA8Olp9OWxwBRvKH2_j8I", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGPDxFgw", - "preview": "

PLA is a wonderful, easy to use, 3D printing material. It is a renewable and biodegradable resource.  It is non-toxic and has a pleasant smell when printing.  PLA filament comes in a wide range of colors and because of its thermal characteristics, is particularly easy to get great prints with.

", - "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-in-pla", - "title": "How To Succeed When Printing In PLA", - "url": "/articles/how-to-succeed-when-printing-in-pla" - }, - { - "author": "Scott Cahoon", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Aug 22, 2017", - "description": "Follow these helpful steps to start successfully printing with this extremely tough, professional grade material. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PB42BjTgkO1RdpaJmcQUui5cy4WoUqNAeVV5uGEcYKjTiwQsp8Jy359iOLD2z5KboXRODOyM4eigaSRpNiGG5pT9UQc", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/68l8HHHXlMcBSQihHsAOKCSgsNjFpaohM5GU0A86h2DDMhjlrQqwDvXzA5xOK_O_zKXA5gzjs3MR6LREmgjGahWwpw", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwLiD764JDA", - "preview": "

Polycarbonate, also denoted as PC, is a strong, durable, and tough material. It's a naturally transparent thermoplastic with high impact resistance and excellent heat resistance. As a 3D printing filament, it's heat resistance is both a benefit and a problematic characteristic, as it is even more prone to warping and splitting than ABS filament. As such, this material needs high temperatures in order to extrude and have proper layer adhesion. Once it's all said and done though, successfully printing Polycarbonate filament can enable you to print some stellar and almost indestructible RC cars, drones, or anything else you can imagine.

", - "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-polycarbonate-filament", - "title": "How to Succeed when Printing with Polycarbonate Filament", - "url": "/articles/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-polycarbonate-filament" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jul 18, 2017", - "description": "With these easy steps, you'll learn how to design & build your own 3D printed bird house.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QhZlBCpLQ6GnBNaYnDu4e3SafG89dq4w9FtN_dg97fpCoLn00OaPx0hqbjer5k3kfmHFDCswahxG-kepFc-Q1AHsPA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ScmYXriVwApp5qF8tVW31C_VkWVEWs7O-xkpebSFrrGwHUHi5NE7gsgErm26KsCpZiyosxD0z_7qrKiolpaIxKo4MMM", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMjmjbkKDA", - "preview": "

It's summer! The birds are out singing, the sun is out, and there isn't a cloud in the sky! It's perfect weather to stay inside and 3D print. We have a really big tree outside the front door to our showroom, but we hardly ever see birds taking a rest on it. What it needs is a birdhouse! It'd be really easy to go out and buy some wood or go to a crafts store and buy a kit, but where's the fun in that? There's no personalization, no pizzazz, just a box with a triangular roof and a hole. Booooring.

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Keep reading to see how to add some flare to your birdhouse by designing one yourself using Tinkercad. If you've never used Tinkercad, no problem! We have an article and a video demonstrating the basics of using Tinkercad. With that said, let's get to it!

To get started, make a quick sketch of the general shape you want your birdhouse to be. It can be as simple as a traditional birdhouse, or as complex as a castle. It all depends on your skillset and personal taste. In my case, I want something geometric, and hexagons are a shape found regularly in nature (and just so happens to be the shape of the MatterHackers logo).

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", - "reference": "how-to-design-and-3d-print-a-custom-birdhouse", - "title": "How To: Design and 3D Print a Custom Birdhouse ", - "url": "/articles/how-to-design-and-3d-print-a-custom-birdhouse" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jul 23, 2017", - "description": "Participate in the Open RC Project and learn how to 3D print and build your own F1 RC car. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z5s9htlZGmHAbY5QwVBXZu7KHlrnXEnpZHiWl3dqp40jsdcKJo8Ir6-POfuJBzyZvyYXLo4HhR_BbgghSFbDQJFj8g", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hX6TmtTaIsfKFE60zCssO39vd3coyDXrAPI0RhWC-b9C9vlKyKn6tg0riZkZjlpE39oyWzvE0tWGiPns56w69ygN", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMi1xaIKDA", - "preview": "

If you're an active member of the 3D printing community, you've probably heard of Daniel Norée. If you haven't heard of him, you may have heard about one of his many Open-Source projects, like the OpenRC F1 Car, the OpenRC drone, the print-in-place adjustable wrench, or everyone's favorite: Benchy. We are going to 3D print and build the F1 car. 

", - "reference": "how-to-3d-print-and-build-an-rc-car", - "title": "How To: 3D Print and Build an F1 RC Car", - "url": "/articles/how-to-3d-print-and-build-an-rc-car" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jul 19, 2017", - "description": "Understand how your favorite pool toys were designed for functionality and 3D print your own.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/P0fGa5Q8FCf9H2-4DS8sZkRIMEXef9yntvYdsA_xwWzD5ziQz2iHifTjwbqk7idMbT05mkkPqOSndwgaW_eOVumbEA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HNFZDBgMW8bZZ0x4M_Y6LvcM17XwTJTM-eSw2I7dXkm1VpWQ-7LsNI8A7YIMVQkTZcZG8GEHz1gAjO977c-OF-UzVg", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMiopa0LDA", - "preview": "

We're about halfway through summer now, which means the weather is at its hottest and spending time at the pool is a great idea. Let's 3D print some pool toys! There's this toy torpedo that many remember playing with as a kid in the pool - you throw it underwater and it rockets across the pool. The toy works because it's neutrally buoyant, which means it has close to or the same density as the surrounding water, so it neither floats nor sinks, and instead moves easily through the water. 

Today, we're going to try and replicate that, with some experimentation and some trial and error to make it work. 

", - "reference": "how-to-3d-print-your-own-torpedo-pool-toy", - "title": "How To: 3D Print Your Own Torpedo Pool Toy", - "url": "/articles/how-to-3d-print-your-own-torpedo-pool-toy" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jun 29, 2017", - "description": "Follow our trial and error process as we take our first attempt at aluminum casting.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Xm61KL0jAeKwVP94cxSBj9x0ZUqx-qQivtLLvazjQ-eAdEZ1-0WnK-5vH_nCQ5WN27p2ogBmR_EEhFxZfl-KDawx5Q", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Xm61KL0jAeKwVP94cxSBj9x0ZUqx-qQivtLLvazjQ-eAdEZ1-0WnK-5vH_nCQ5WN27p2ogBmR_EEhFxZfl-KDawx5Q", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwNCbtbYLDA", - "preview": "

We have many customers ask us about 3D printing in metal and how they can do it. With most printers, the closest you can get to 3D printing metal objects is using a \"-fill\" material; copperfill, bronzefill, steelfill, etc. But these are all composites and only partially metal, with most of the material being PLA plastic. To truly print 100% metal is not an easy endeavor, and requires a $100,000 printer. However, there are other ways to take a 3D model and end with a metal part in the same shape without 3D printing in metal: casting!

", - "reference": "using-3d-printing-for-metal-casting-part-1", - "title": "Using 3D Printing for Metal Casting: Part 1", - "url": "/articles/using-3d-printing-for-metal-casting-part-1" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jul 24, 2016", - "description": "3D printing has been a game changer in the cosplay world. Learn\u00a0techniques from our\u00a0resident cosplayer to turn digital models into physical costumes.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cfM0f2hAbVy6dbxUji0NqFgw6JHORrGkRfKSFS-XpnyzI2UQ0uXHOpV99I5kQhFFpohHKBTANZOBBhPLenpsAqxPog", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cfM0f2hAbVy6dbxUji0NqFgw6JHORrGkRfKSFS-XpnyzI2UQ0uXHOpV99I5kQhFFpohHKBTANZOBBhPLenpsAqxPog", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIWX_LkKDA", - "preview": "

In the past, creating an object based on a video game was difficult, time intensive, and generally accomplished by hand. My background in 3D printing comes from cosplay, and the most common question I am asked is \"how do you make your costumes?\"

", - "reference": "how-to-bring-game-characters-to-life", - "title": "How To: Bring Game Characters to Life", - "url": "/articles/how-to-bring-game-characters-to-life" - }, - { - "author": "Scott Cahoon", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Dec 18, 2016", - "description": "Part one of an in-depth look at how to use support material. First up: single extrusion. Learn successful design considerations and how to use support material to create complex prints. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aHTKZMBhOoIbc_PrCTZAWU1duDmKtjQbJfBmk4JXjyk7vdwZqLN6HVTleMLoSTce8bn5P6voUGnq9Y7a9tdweBVwhw", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aHTKZMBhOoIbc_PrCTZAWU1duDmKtjQbJfBmk4JXjyk7vdwZqLN6HVTleMLoSTce8bn5P6voUGnq9Y7a9tdweBVwhw", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPPt5q8KDA", - "preview": "

When designing models for 3D printing, the prudent designer will ensure that negative space is minimized and that the positioning of the model on the printer assists in navigating or mitigating that space.  However, any designer who has been around the block once or twice knows that there will come a time when the use of supports cannot be avoided.  With that in mind, this article will explore some considerations during design to mitigate printing over negative space and to venture more in-depth on the use of supports while printing.

", - "reference": "how-to-use-support-material-part-1", - "title": "How To Use Support Material: Part 1", - "url": "/news/how-to-use-support-material-part-1" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "May 2, 2017", - "description": "Let\u2019s talk about 3D printing flexible filaments. Everyone wants to print with it, but to a novice, it might seem daunting. We will take a look at what makes flexible filaments easier to print than it might seem, and how you can add flexible filament to your 3D printing material toolbox.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7m7L54IKxt904Sqn6-E8cHuW60cUzIWplCOe-nwHrACDewdeu-hKE2yatMBnvYont2CZn429Rx1UxEkixXB86fl3", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7m7L54IKxt904Sqn6-E8cHuW60cUzIWplCOe-nwHrACDewdeu-hKE2yatMBnvYont2CZn429Rx1UxEkixXB86fl3", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgK-b_akKDA", - "preview": "

From TPE to Soft PLA, flexible 3D printing filaments are widely useful materials to have at the ready. By design, these filaments are basically printable rubber, allowing you to create complex elastic designs that would otherwise be impossible. Flexible filaments come in a variety of colors, chemical make-ups, and hardness, giving you the flexibility to apply their various properties.

", - "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-flexible-filament", - "title": "How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament", - "url": "/news/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-flexible-filament" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "May 25, 2016", - "description": "Vapor polishing is the process of smoothing the surface of 3D printed ABS parts. The results give your models the look of professionally made injection molded parts. If you want to achieve this look, read on.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z_6ERV9-x7_bpx8c6A0WnCyo1MuoMTRZQzXfZRRKC5wGlXjeC9m4ugpb3PCafmK8lKbFmaztkAtluOEQRtnZD_ai", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z_6ERV9-x7_bpx8c6A0WnCyo1MuoMTRZQzXfZRRKC5wGlXjeC9m4ugpb3PCafmK8lKbFmaztkAtluOEQRtnZD_ai", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMnA880JDA", - "preview": "

Acetone is a powerful solvent that quickly dissolves ABS. However, the ABS reconstitutes itself once the acetone has evaporated. This phenomenon is used for welding ABS drain pipes (ABS glue contains acetone). It also allows us to use 'ABS juice' to apply a thin film of ABS to the print bed to help with adhesion.

", - "reference": "how-to-vapor-polishing", - "title": "How To: Vapor Polishing ABS 3D Printer Filament", - "url": "/articles/how-to-vapor-polishing" - }, - { - "author": "Scott Cahoon", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Oct 31, 2015", - "description": "The Band-IT is a rubber band powered dragster with 3D printed components. Print one and take it for a spin. Better yet, print two and race against each other. Endless hours of fun are waiting to be discovered.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/geRaWoythsnXKVhTwY4EUi0vKssKWwv_i3K0eohctnML8eunUqdtYpdw5_09aQtsg6bvpiI8HauwmDRScZ7jRdUC7w", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/geRaWoythsnXKVhTwY4EUi0vKssKWwv_i3K0eohctnML8eunUqdtYpdw5_09aQtsg6bvpiI8HauwmDRScZ7jRdUC7w", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOH3yq8KDA", - "preview": "

The Band-IT component parts may be downloaded and printed at Band-IT Dragster.  Follow these instructions to learn how to assemble your dragster once all the components are printed.

", - "reference": "band-it-dragster-assembly-instructions", - "title": "Band-IT Dragster Assembly Instructions", - "url": "/articles/band-it-dragster-assembly-instructions" - }, - { - "author": "Tyler Anderson", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jan 29, 2016", - "description": "You printed it, now make it spring to life. Dive into these instructions to make your Iron Man helmet as lifelike as possible.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zmQSUQ-gj3vNsCuGFEz2XOmtAIzzKssji-Yc1SQNAoPkF5phtANqYcVspAuLNqgV64Gt0FQBuPnpDfHHsZ9GHLE3b7U", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zmQSUQ-gj3vNsCuGFEz2XOmtAIzzKssji-Yc1SQNAoPkF5phtANqYcVspAuLNqgV64Gt0FQBuPnpDfHHsZ9GHLE3b7U", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJ7j_qYKDA", - "preview": "

Halloween was coming and I needed a costume. I didn't want to go buy something and I didn't want to wear anything lame. With the new WASP printer that just arrived in our showroom, I wanted to utilize its power. Finally, a friend suggested Iron Man. It was perfect, but I had every intention of doing it right. 

", - "reference": "bringing-the-helmet-to-life", - "title": "Bringing the Helmet to Life", - "url": "/articles/bringing-the-helmet-to-life" - }, - { - "author": "Dave Gaylord", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jun 28, 2015", - "description": "This is a quick tutorial for how to create a custom 3D printed stencil using MatterControl.\r\n", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lLmhjvrDbKjOdP8ncHYxBcLoCmho2wYALZMdaLAofb9QL79Z7C5JhMYavH236zIQXg8UVTRur8Ydx3uejLJ2AA4x", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lLmhjvrDbKjOdP8ncHYxBcLoCmho2wYALZMdaLAofb9QL79Z7C5JhMYavH236zIQXg8UVTRur8Ydx3uejLJ2AA4x", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNKh2rQLDA", - "preview": "

Working on a project that might require a customized stencil? Not a problem! With the power of MatterControl, users can imagine, design, and print exactly what they need. Here is how...

", - "reference": "how-to-3d-print-a-custom-stencil", - "title": "How To Create And 3D Print A Custom Stencil", - "url": "/articles/how-to-3d-print-a-custom-stencil" - }, - { - "author": "Matt Moening", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jan 25, 2016", - "description": "This guide will walk through the calibration of your Sailfish Firmware printer using MatterControl. If your 3D printer is lacking the precision you desire, read on. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wcApmJUGN6RmJObzozowO9DfICWcGOhE5zy6MnD5rHpIwG7u6HKSYaRF4qThphLYRnhECw4qKMRXTs3PEgnsiVko", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wcApmJUGN6RmJObzozowO9DfICWcGOhE5zy6MnD5rHpIwG7u6HKSYaRF4qThphLYRnhECw4qKMRXTs3PEgnsiVko", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgO7DkLQKDA", - "preview": "

In this tutorial you will learn to calibrate the machine's extrusion rate as well as position sensitivity in the X, Y, and Z, axis. This tutorial works for Makerbot, Flashforge or any Sailfish Firmware printer. 

", - "reference": "calibrating-your-makerbot-using-mattercontrol", - "title": "Calibrating Your Makerbot using MatterControl", - "url": "/articles/calibrating-your-makerbot-using-mattercontrol" - }, - { - "author": "Kevin Pope", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Oct 11, 2012", - "description": "How to calculate motor steps and update your firmware settings.", - "hero": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/DbLHkn4YRas1vYAj7pfZA5rE0mbouGrcpHCMjkbmwqY2_jnz71nhy2yvAlui7NjNkQpuc_QPmSBQudUnrj3jeH4k", - "icon": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/DbLHkn4YRas1vYAj7pfZA5rE0mbouGrcpHCMjkbmwqY2_jnz71nhy2yvAlui7NjNkQpuc_QPmSBQudUnrj3jeH4k", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGO74BAw", - "preview": "

We recently posted some of our custom stepper motors for sale.  They are 0.9 degree NEMA 17s and we've been fantastically pleased when using them for our own projects, but we have had several people ask - \"How do I make these work with my printer?\".  The reason is this - despite having higher step accuracy, 0.9 degree steppers are somewhat less ubiquitous than 1.8 degree steppers, so the default settings for most firmware assumes you are using 1.8 degree steppers.

", - "reference": "3d-printer-firmware-settings-stepper-motor-configuration", - "title": "3D Printer Firmware Settings - Stepper Motor Configuration", - "url": "/news/3d-printer-firmware-settings-stepper-motor-configuration" - }, - { - "author": "Tyler Anderson", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jul 27, 2015", - "description": "This guide walks through the process of succeeding when using Hydrographics. Hydrographics is a way of applying complicated graphics and intricate patterns to 3 dimensional objects. The dissolvable film is floated on the surface of a tub of water, and the object is literally dipped into it.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hufbrmzN7n_eHvqCDQdFzY3B8-mjPy-Ys6A62J7--RHmhh9eT3LzrOnR9WZcKDFnu6zNmPhF0ya8fwGNqiOYkac7hA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hufbrmzN7n_eHvqCDQdFzY3B8-mjPy-Ys6A62J7--RHmhh9eT3LzrOnR9WZcKDFnu6zNmPhF0ya8fwGNqiOYkac7hA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPKlibcKDA", - "preview": "

Hydrographics is a process where you overlay a sheet of printed graphics onto an object. The hydrographic film is floated on the surface of a tub of water. It dissolves into a layer of paint floating on top the water. When you dip an object into it, the paint conforms and sticks to the surface.

", - "reference": "coating-your-prints-with-hydrographics", - "title": "How to: Coat Your Prints with Hydrographics", - "url": "/articles/coating-your-prints-with-hydrographics" - }, - { - "author": "Kevin Pope", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Feb 3, 2014", - "description": "MatterHackers CEO Lars Brubaker lays down some knowledge at the 2014 3D Printer World Expo.", - "hero": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/Q-901LHdNrQUfGl9Z6yP1J3xzcG7VFi3pPtD0GU6stpkYZTrwMU6X9DsXiIKTSsXiOZ20d90BpJwc9MKXfiH2uHvFJk", - "icon": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/Q-901LHdNrQUfGl9Z6yP1J3xzcG7VFi3pPtD0GU6stpkYZTrwMU6X9DsXiIKTSsXiOZ20d90BpJwc9MKXfiH2uHvFJk", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOCKw6QJDA", - "preview": "

Lars Brubaker, our Chief MatterHacker, spoke recently at the 2014 3D Printer World Expo, covering a range of 3D printing topics - from materials to troubleshooting.  In case you missed it, you can still check out the slides that accompanied those presentations below.

", - "reference": "3d-printer-world-expo-2014-presentations", - "title": "Lars Brubaker presents at the 2014 3D Printer World Expo", - "url": "/news/3d-printer-world-expo-2014-presentations" - }, - { - "author": "Dave Gaylord", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Mar 24, 2015", - "description": "The old adage \u201cwork smart, not hard\u201d is applicable here. There is no reason to get out any fancy CAD software if you are in the mood to 3D Print standard hardware. The McMaster Carr online catalog has an abundance of CAD designs available and ready for printing. \r\n", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Phtkh2fB5fZXKQPbiMtTnTFba6AETFSQJaXJcaolqoxOgiaN5PYskXmeuSSBzRCqRHNAFM5cwPxtmvZHo44LsnxfEew", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Phtkh2fB5fZXKQPbiMtTnTFba6AETFSQJaXJcaolqoxOgiaN5PYskXmeuSSBzRCqRHNAFM5cwPxtmvZHo44LsnxfEew", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPTAwaYJDA", - "preview": "

If you have the desire to print standard hardware, but lack the motivation to reverse engineer the parts yourself, I have some good news for you.

\n

The McMaster Carr online catalog is well organized, has an overwhelming selection, and as it turns out, is a fantastic resource for standard hardware CAD Designs. A good portion of the standard hardware have downloadable CAD files within the product detail page.

", - "reference": "3d-print-hardware-from-mcmaster-carr", - "title": "How To 3D Print Hardware from McMaster-Carr", - "url": "/articles/3d-print-hardware-from-mcmaster-carr" - }, - { - "author": "Kevin Pope", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Oct 18, 2012", - "description": "Much has been made of the new wood-based 3D printing filament, so we thought we'd try it out by printing a toy plane.", - "hero": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/9xuv3MKRgXtoBj1JLtSO8vZSnSkvAMiOK0MM8SH1459YyOCXncfqkd23FL3UhbxpYjUHGqROEK7DwiLU8PANBHK39w", - "icon": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/9xuv3MKRgXtoBj1JLtSO8vZSnSkvAMiOK0MM8SH1459YyOCXncfqkd23FL3UhbxpYjUHGqROEK7DwiLU8PANBHK39w", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGJnjBgw", - "preview": "

Our requested samples of wood-based filament (LAYWOO-D3) came in the mail today, which begged the immediate question - \"What should we print with it?\". After much deliberation we ultimately decided to print a Stratos Glider as an homage to the balsa-wood toy planes of our childhood. Realizing that, since we were doing this all \"for science\", we really ought to have a baseline for comparison, we decided to print our first glider out of PLA filament. 

", - "reference": "3d-printing-a-wooden-glider", - "title": "3D Printing A Wooden Glider", - "url": "/news/3d-printing-a-wooden-glider" - }, - { - "author": "Taylor Landry", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Sep 1, 2016", - "description": "NylonX has quickly become one of our favorite filaments for strong, durable, and ready-to-use parts. Here's an in-depth look at Nylon X, and some printing tips to get the most out of this great new material.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pRjQwQngNN1L4lUZFubKVtXeDf_RMLt8m5YNvvhPvg4Y_3_vl7gxJbA5q40O7GcF0Rsao_GvYKYf1ZebiJ9v-ShFnA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pRjQwQngNN1L4lUZFubKVtXeDf_RMLt8m5YNvvhPvg4Y_3_vl7gxJbA5q40O7GcF0Rsao_GvYKYf1ZebiJ9v-ShFnA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgLXA468JDA", - "preview": "

Nylons are a fantastic group of 3D printing materials. Excellent chemical, abrasion, and impact resistance coupled with its durability and toughness make it a perfect choice for strong, functional 3D printed parts.

\n

The main “cons” of nylon filaments are the lack of rigidity, relatively high shrink rate, and the fact that it is highly hygroscopic (absorbs water from the air).

", - "reference": "a-closer-look-at-nylon-x", - "title": "How to Succeed with NylonX", - "url": "/news/a-closer-look-at-nylon-x" - }, - { - "author": "Lars Brubaker", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Sep 17, 2013", - "description": "The latest release of MatterControl (version 0.9.0) adds software-based, automatic print-leveling and height calibration as an optional new feature.", - "hero": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/58TL18JFxVtRpGqvwfSozVecdHdbYdg5uXJ4pwE_K79C_WSboSjr1xttC-2j7j8MwNrDnbOp8JXrKcq3HNP7TZnqEL0", - "icon": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/58TL18JFxVtRpGqvwfSozVecdHdbYdg5uXJ4pwE_K79C_WSboSjr1xttC-2j7j8MwNrDnbOp8JXrKcq3HNP7TZnqEL0", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgICkqdcIDA", - "preview": "

Hey everyone, we have some great news to share with you! MatterControl now includes a way to automatically calibrate your printer. This is a huge improvement over our previous foray into automatic printer calibration. In our previous system, we required modifications to your printer, uploading new firmware and a significant amount of DIY. Now, thanks to MatterControl's new wizard, all you have to do is follow the on-screen instructions and you can get your printer calibrated and leveled in no time.

", - "reference": "automatic-print-leveling-in-mattercontrol", - "title": "Automatic Print Leveling in MatterControl", - "url": "/news/automatic-print-leveling-in-mattercontrol" - }, - { - "author": "Taylor Landry", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Dec 16, 2015", - "description": "Interested in using MatterControl's 7 and 13 point print leveling? Although, this system is easy to use, there might be some hardware or firmware settings you'll need to fix first. Here's how!", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/R45DRXq2t8nsETFYMvAh8vHw1fHkn9vBarWDEC1laBPo8C9AiZh8gTefABhKxu8ke4ESW6h6ltWNDehEkXBz2vziJA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/R45DRXq2t8nsETFYMvAh8vHw1fHkn9vBarWDEC1laBPo8C9AiZh8gTefABhKxu8ke4ESW6h6ltWNDehEkXBz2vziJA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPbomqIKDA", - "preview": "

MatterControl recently introduced 7 and 13 point software print leveling. These are great options for delta 3D printers, as well as Cartesian printers with large print beds.

", - "reference": "troubleshooting-for-mattercontrol-print-leveling", - "title": "Troubleshooting for MatterControl Print Leveling", - "url": "/articles/troubleshooting-for-mattercontrol-print-leveling" - }, - { - "author": "Matt Moening", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jan 24, 2016", - "description": "Finally take the leap away from your stock Makerbot extruder and indulge in the precision printing that only an E3D All-Metal HotEnd can provide. Check out our step by step guide to get your Makerbot up and running with an E3D HotEnd.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LNtlQYbCZX0WynvegI7aFu2pZbBD5_uEKDy62N_4ExGpHbS8GXbT2gbzf2sL3MkOB9xaAsPtiH8r4pjzgIfrVogRkw", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LNtlQYbCZX0WynvegI7aFu2pZbBD5_uEKDy62N_4ExGpHbS8GXbT2gbzf2sL3MkOB9xaAsPtiH8r4pjzgIfrVogRkw", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJ7S6LgKDA", - "preview": "

At MatterHackers we are constantly tinkering with our machines. In the back of the office we discovered a discarded Makerbot Replicator 2 just itching for a face lift. Since we have gotten quite a few requests to make this upgrade available for you makers, we thought we'd give it a shot. As it turns out, with just a few tools it is an easy modification, and (more importantly) the results are fantastic.

", - "reference": "hack-your-makerbot-with-an-e3d-all-metal-hotend", - "title": "Hack Your MakerBot with an E3D All-Metal Hot End", - "url": "/articles/hack-your-makerbot-with-an-e3d-all-metal-hotend" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Sep 27, 2012", - "description": "MatterHackers adds automatic height calibration and bed leveling.", - "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/OZtJIxOmy67GE-CR2p0vNJgLta5qa_HYAOrknv5l1Xht2tHN8JgjF1Kvk5LGTY2M0B3JsMheD9FCRxxHET0z1TPc", - "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/OZtJIxOmy67GE-CR2p0vNJgLta5qa_HYAOrknv5l1Xht2tHN8JgjF1Kvk5LGTY2M0B3JsMheD9FCRxxHET0z1TPc", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGKfvAgw", - "preview": "

Update: Be sure to check out our new article MatterControl - Automatic Print Leveling. This new solution is all software, you will not need to change any hardware or firmware. It will work today.

\n

Hey everyone, here is the promised update to our first post about our work on automatic bed height calibration and leveling.  In that post we showed a working implementation of custom firmware gathering data on the level of the print bed and then automatically compensating its movements. Since then we've been working to put the final pieces in place in order to have a full solution that can be used in day-to-day 3D printing. Now, with two printable parts (a z-probe and a modified x-carriage), some magnets, and a switch, it is possible to add automatic bed height calibration and leveling to a Mendel90.

", - "reference": "automatic-printer-calibration-update", - "title": "Automatic Printer Calibration: Update", - "url": "/news/automatic-printer-calibration-update" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "May 21, 2014", - "description": "Presets are an incredibly powerful tool for getting exactly what want out of your 3D print. With a little bit of knowledge under your belt, you'll be printing more efficiently than ever before. \r\n---------------\r\nUpdated 6/12/15\r\n\r\n", - "hero": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/8F6Yt9h1vnOaASJB2k_cztq0Cv_6Cet3zFa_cmFljOeI28qzhnvyOwx6EXWvLcr1gbNUckF3tcRfganit2kff2w-fw", - "icon": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/8F6Yt9h1vnOaASJB2k_cztq0Cv_6Cet3zFa_cmFljOeI28qzhnvyOwx6EXWvLcr1gbNUckF3tcRfganit2kff2w-fw", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNCy8NAIDA", - "preview": "

Hey there, stranger! I hear that you’ve been using MatterControl lately. I also hear that you're ready to start creating and customizing your own presets! Don't know where to start? Not to worry my fine friend, guides like this exist for a reason. So settle down into your favorite pair of pants, it's time to learn about presets.

", - "reference": "how-to-customize-your-presets-in-mattercontrol", - "title": "How to Customize Your Presets in MatterControl", - "url": "/articles/how-to-customize-your-presets-in-mattercontrol" - }, - { - "author": "Greg Diaz", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jun 30, 2015", - "description": "Are you building your own printer? Do you need to create a customized printer profile? MatterControl can easily help you out with just a few quick steps - check out our new guide!", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CvLTUQpu15PFZms0Y4266ZvCkg-JOpeOdVAK_rLyzdpZlFdZ-8GU8l4tGVKuk4-wftXz7YXBO-ac4wf1RymCG1Z-5eg", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CvLTUQpu15PFZms0Y4266ZvCkg-JOpeOdVAK_rLyzdpZlFdZ-8GU8l4tGVKuk4-wftXz7YXBO-ac4wf1RymCG1Z-5eg", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJKV6qQKDA", - "preview": "

IMPORTANT EDIT 7/28/17: This method of adding custom profiles to MatterControl was deprecated with the release of cloud-based profiles. 

\n\n

If you want to add a custom profile to MatterControl, generate the .printer file as outlined in this article, then email it to support@mattercontrol.com and we will upload it so it is available for you and all MatterControl users.

\n

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

\n\n
", - "reference": "how-to-integrate-a-custom-printer-profile-into-mattercontrol", - "title": "How To Integrate A Custom Printer Profile Into MatterControl", - "url": "/articles/how-to-integrate-a-custom-printer-profile-into-mattercontrol" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jan 14, 2016", - "description": "Want to print in multi-color but only have one extruder? Fear not! With just a simple trick using MatterControl, you can print with all the colors of the rainbow.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Aj61YVIJbGm3Jg5ZeaHCvB_is7cTqOi04CLa-PyjgofCztldkQc--OGeWuvi9667Aen0Z16Nhw4AdpLGcFXn24lczaw", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Aj61YVIJbGm3Jg5ZeaHCvB_is7cTqOi04CLa-PyjgofCztldkQc--OGeWuvi9667Aen0Z16Nhw4AdpLGcFXn24lczaw", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgK6luq4KDA", - "preview": "

When I first started working at MatterHackers all of my friends were so intrigued by the concept of 3D printing, I would often get the question, \"What does something 3D printed look like?\". So I decided to make myself a key chain I could put on my car keys; something I could easily grab out of my bag when people asked me. The trouble was, I am a very colorful person. I did not want my key chain to be just a single color, I wanted it to be five colors. But, I was only a novice, and the printer I was using only had one extruder. 

", - "reference": "how-to-print-in-multi-color-with-a-single-extruder", - "title": "How to Print in Multi-Color with a Single Extruder", - "url": "/articles/how-to-print-in-multi-color-with-a-single-extruder" - }, - { - "author": "Chris Moore", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Mar 2, 2015", - "description": "With the release of MatterControl 1.2.1, users are able to employ cloud features, which makes sending files wirelessly a breeze. Learn how with this step by step guide.\r\n", - "hero": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/3ROOgpIkjBUawWXaMoWdWHOVidAreQ-2FDrX9imBcagONUlIRPaWwU649FrytOFVoxX4-NcZ91WMLz_Cte1VYUis", - "icon": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/3ROOgpIkjBUawWXaMoWdWHOVidAreQ-2FDrX9imBcagONUlIRPaWwU649FrytOFVoxX4-NcZ91WMLz_Cte1VYUis", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIzi8akKDA", - "preview": "

Version 1.2.1 of MatterControl allows users to send files from their MatterControl Desktop to the new MatterControl Touch, as well as to other MatterControl Desktops. With just a few clicks, you will soon be able to utilize MatterControl on multiple sources.

", - "reference": "how-to-sync-files-from-your-mattercontrol-desktop-to-mattercontrol-touch", - "title": "How to Sync Files from your MatterControl Desktop to MatterControl Touch", - "url": "/articles/how-to-sync-files-from-your-mattercontrol-desktop-to-mattercontrol-touch" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Oct 6, 2016", - "description": "From general purpose print beds to tips and tricks with acetone, finding the right bed surface to print on is an important step in the 3D printing process. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N7TPp4G58K2dlyFuWUhbk8Q3bgRjR9KjGvLjXYtrayCUAc1ZaS3MDrHbpAwj9Cju0dvYjfCo9UVkIXPk8uVIox819g", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N7TPp4G58K2dlyFuWUhbk8Q3bgRjR9KjGvLjXYtrayCUAc1ZaS3MDrHbpAwj9Cju0dvYjfCo9UVkIXPk8uVIox819g", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJ29v6oKDA", - "preview": "

The key to a successful 3D print is a good first layer, and the key to a successful first layer is choosing the right print bed surface for the material you are 3D printing. In this guide, we will go through the most popular 3D materials to print with and describe the best techniques for getting them to stick to the bed and achieving a stellar first layer.

", - "reference": "choosing-the-right-3d-print-bed-surface", - "title": "Choosing the Best 3D Printing Bed Surface", - "url": "/news/choosing-the-right-3d-print-bed-surface" - }, - { - "author": "Griffin Kahnke", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Feb 12, 2014", - "description": "If you\u2019ve downloaded the most recent release of MatterControl, you may have noticed one of our new features: The Text Creator! In this article, we\u2019re gonna break down the functions and features of our newest creation program. \n", - "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/RUHAw17EIOE6R3oL4MrLkyYXJvU3pgr8DpezfXURFkUYqcSShkR_5zlY6EiP_Az_rYXbJMGPdbdeKvFzhOp6YaMHAA", - "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/RUHAw17EIOE6R3oL4MrLkyYXJvU3pgr8DpezfXURFkUYqcSShkR_5zlY6EiP_Az_rYXbJMGPdbdeKvFzhOp6YaMHAA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgODR57kKDA", - "preview": "

We do our best to listen to the community, and we're always working hard to improve the software that helps control the hobby we all know and love. One of the most recent features, is our new Text Creator. Designing parts can be difficult for the average person, and sometimes it's nice just to be able to write something and have it printed, instead of waiting for someone to design the particular thing you want. Let's get started, shall we?

", - "reference": "how-to-use-the-text-creator", - "title": "MatterControl - How to use the Text Creator", - "url": "/articles/how-to-use-the-text-creator" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Feb 1, 2016", - "description": "Matt Manhattan, our February Hacker of the Month, took a stab at merging an everyday object with 3D printed parts to create a new, customized item. With great success, he's done it! Everyone has one, but do you have your very own, personalized night light? ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgN7G-aYKDA", - "preview": "

It began how all of us often get into 3D printing - a little curiosity. Two years ago, Matt Manhattan decided to follow through with that curiosity and jumped into 3D printing. Excited, Manhattan researched for a year and finally bought a machine - Ultimaker 2.

", - "reference": "create-your-own-custom-night-light", - "title": "Create Your Own Custom Night Light", - "url": "/news/create-your-own-custom-night-light" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "May 9, 2014", - "description": "With the new image converter add-on for MatterControl, turning 2D images into 3D printed objects has never been easier.", - "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/R0TTp--jw-W5mJ8GjEHIfLnUU6yEMvl3RSQEgkYv8Zsj_wXLtTjjjbYNDeGBuC5ZZC7LUPCOSpuRO1PFh5FTsDE9JZw", - "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/R0TTp--jw-W5mJ8GjEHIfLnUU6yEMvl3RSQEgkYv8Zsj_wXLtTjjjbYNDeGBuC5ZZC7LUPCOSpuRO1PFh5FTsDE9JZw", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNCPg68LDA", - "preview": "

The latest update of MatterControl includes a powerful new add-on tool - the Image Converter.  Using the Image Converter anyone can create 3D printable objects by simply dropping in an existing image (no prior 3d printing knowledge required). In this article we dive into this tool and some of its potential applications.

", - "reference": "hands-on-with-the-mattercontrol-image-converter", - "title": "Hands-on: The MatterControl Image Converter", - "url": "/news/hands-on-with-the-mattercontrol-image-converter" - }, - { - "author": "Roy Smith - Guest Contributor", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Sep 9, 2013", - "description": "Roy (aka \"The SmithBot\") presents us with a hands-on guide to turning your neighborhood, city, state, or favorite National Park into a 3D printable topographic map.", - "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/tKfKJoE2mKJLD0nYyw7ADzboCyoUC2iUHLjqfGvTKjv4NdgPZMWQUPDhHoL-0ujAFeFgXIEl-pRgz6fGdba_mBP0QQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/tKfKJoE2mKJLD0nYyw7ADzboCyoUC2iUHLjqfGvTKjv4NdgPZMWQUPDhHoL-0ujAFeFgXIEl-pRgz6fGdba_mBP0QQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgICEgKsKDA", - "preview": "

A few months ago my friend Barney said, “Can you 3D print Thousand Palms Canyon?”  

\n

I knew what he meant: all the hills and gulleys and landscape features we’re familiar with. “No,” I said. “That’s impossible.” But the idea kept bugging me. Why not? So I did what any of you would do in the middle of a sleepless night: I went online. Huh! Not impossible, but maybe a little bit tricky. Below are the step-by-step instructions to create a 3D topographic map.

", - "reference": "how-to-3d-print-a-map-of-anywhere-in-the-world", - "title": "How to 3D Print a Map of Anywhere in the World", - "url": "/news/how-to-3d-print-a-map-of-anywhere-in-the-world" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Aug 25, 2016", - "description": "Making your 3D prints look fresh off the assembly line isn't as hard as you think. Follow these simple techniques to finish your 3D prints and make them shine.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u7rq8xkIt1jJF82q94v6ZZkPP8egmHwjDggpxqmvwUKOVHowTVXoKELgSZCKxTOz0NXeAhJ6biN8yyUrhzDufEZt9w", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u7rq8xkIt1jJF82q94v6ZZkPP8egmHwjDggpxqmvwUKOVHowTVXoKELgSZCKxTOz0NXeAhJ6biN8yyUrhzDufEZt9w", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNXukqEJDA", - "preview": "

PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is one of the two most commonly used desktop 3D printing materials (with the other being ABS filament). It is the ‘default’ recommended material for many desktop 3D printers, and with good reason - PLA is useful in a broad range of printing applications and can be produced in a variety of colors. It has the virtue of being both an odorless and low-warp material, and does not require a heated bed. PLA plastic is also one of the more eco-friendly 3D printer materials available; it is made from renewable resources (corn-starch) and requires less energy to process compared to traditional (petroleum-based) plastics. Cool, but what do you do to finish a PLA print to make it truly good?

", - "reference": "how-to-smooth-and-finish-your-pla-prints", - "title": "How To: Smooth and Finish Your PLA Prints - Part 1", - "url": "/news/how-to-smooth-and-finish-your-pla-prints" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Nov 28, 2016", - "description": "3D printing is a wonderful process, but for convention and show ready prints, some post-processing may be necessary. Learn some helpful\u00a0techniques from our\u00a0resident cosplayer to turn even the most polygonal model into a smooth masterpiece.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7oWjJRKWiCLhwJT0d_OWo8cTTGQIrszeOqW4CevXyHJOJkxH2WAA5sLz9Z17I6KHNMm1Y8F-7lVMAfWxzXr6M5I-vw", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7oWjJRKWiCLhwJT0d_OWo8cTTGQIrszeOqW4CevXyHJOJkxH2WAA5sLz9Z17I6KHNMm1Y8F-7lVMAfWxzXr6M5I-vw", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJPM-LwKDA", - "preview": "

If you’ve been following along in this series of articles (How to Bring Video Game Characters to Life and How To Smooth & Finish Your PLA Prints - Part 1), you have seen some techniques to smooth out and remove the striations you get from a 3D printing. But what if your original model is significantly more polygonal and faceted than the intended shape? If you have a print that looks like this Soldier 76 mask, there are two different ways to solve this problem: using Bondo body filler after printing, or before printing by modifying the model with a modeling software of your choice. In this article, we will be exploring the former.

", - "reference": "how-to:-smooth-and-finish-you-pla-prints-part-2", - "title": "How To: Smooth and Finish Your PLA Prints - Part 2", - "url": "/articles/how-to:-smooth-and-finish-you-pla-prints-part-2" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jan 10, 2016", - "description": "Hands down, motor dampers are one of the best upgrades available for your 3D printer. Not only are they a quick and easy install, but they result in a quieter, more precise print.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ps1b8w0Ga54dktJlVQGGSPOPy0tgB0oQxJeXZSArNcR0pSayDQ1d2zfPYQDz4YJSpEZFmP33EtlS_tluK5bNxYGn0g", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ps1b8w0Ga54dktJlVQGGSPOPy0tgB0oQxJeXZSArNcR0pSayDQ1d2zfPYQDz4YJSpEZFmP33EtlS_tluK5bNxYGn0g", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgM65v7AKDA", - "preview": "

3D printers can be loud. While an unpleasant sounding 3D printer is merely an annoyance to the operator (and others sharing the room), the vibration of the printer may cause deeper problems with your print and ultimately lead to unexpected results in the final product.

", - "reference": "motor-dampers-install-guide", - "title": "Motor Dampers Install Guide", - "url": "/articles/motor-dampers-install-guide" - }, - { - "author": "Tyler Anderson", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Sep 1, 2015", - "description": "Fan of the game Kerbal Space Program? Ever want to bring your customized space rockets to life? Well look no further! This helpful guide will put those little rockets right in the palm of your hand. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nw1gPJn14IvU0pzLQvZKxyr0Q7fxIEMe9iZei0yzNlyPWZ7a4uheH2f7RdSX5R0A9l4XE22DatL4Ns_DjQI7ugFLTg", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nw1gPJn14IvU0pzLQvZKxyr0Q7fxIEMe9iZei0yzNlyPWZ7a4uheH2f7RdSX5R0A9l4XE22DatL4Ns_DjQI7ugFLTg", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOr9wKsKDA", - "preview": "

This is a guide to show you how to print your ships from Kerbal Space Program, the game where you launch overenthusiastic little green men into space on rockets of your own design. We'll be using Dasoccerguy's excellent KSPBlender add on to import the .craft file into Blender, where we will clean it up and generate a .stl for printing. This guide was written with MatterControl in mind, but it is applicable to any 3D printing software.

", - "reference": "print-your-ships-from-kerbal-space-program", - "title": "How to Print Your Ships from Kerbal Space Program", - "url": "/articles/print-your-ships-from-kerbal-space-program" - }, - { - "author": "Taylor Landry", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Mar 3, 2015", - "description": "This quick and informative guide will help you calibrate your extruder perfectly, resulting in accurate, quality prints.", - "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/AMEmKDO6MwBSXvRXXibNqX2ZTQsAVqsP3PKAYdjjyphqlGDwuHY06YG6WDrUkcAnBAwzyi9E_UNytjLqnpBYaUBFkg", - "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/AMEmKDO6MwBSXvRXXibNqX2ZTQsAVqsP3PKAYdjjyphqlGDwuHY06YG6WDrUkcAnBAwzyi9E_UNytjLqnpBYaUBFkg", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPTV9qkKDA", - "preview": "

Your 3D printer extrudes and retracts precise amounts of filaments in order to create your printed masterpieces. Well, it does if it’s properly calibrated. Calibrating your extruder is one of the most important, as well as one of the most overlooked, things you can do to your machine.

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If you’ve been unhappy with your printing results or have noticed either under or over-extrusion, this calibration will help resolve some or all of these issues.

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Before we begin, let’s identify the components on your printer that we’ll be covering, as well as the 2 different types of extruder setups.

", - "reference": "how-to-calibrate-your-extruder", - "title": "How To Calibrate Your Extruder", - "url": "/articles/how-to-calibrate-your-extruder" - }, - { - "author": "Dave Gaylord", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Feb 13, 2014", - "description": "At some point you may encounter a filament jam or a clogged nozzle where your 3D printer is not extruding. This guide is intended to help you prevent such jams, or fix with them as painlessly as possible.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/quadaj52jx43l6nWRBaMJTDDp5jfXf8SC2v9QYqMZee19jcm6mZD2TR9F_idPYI3hFPQjukt3nLH9wPd1CTYv5as", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/quadaj52jx43l6nWRBaMJTDDp5jfXf8SC2v9QYqMZee19jcm6mZD2TR9F_idPYI3hFPQjukt3nLH9wPd1CTYv5as", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgICSyeUIDA", - "preview": "

If you arrived at this article, I have to assume you’re either a seeker of knowledge, or an unfortunate soul with a 3D printer that is not extruding. In either case, we are here to enlighten you with some techniques for making your 3D printer run like a dream.

", - "reference": "how-to-clear-and-prevent-jams", - "title": "How To Clear and Prevent Jams on Your 3D Printer", - "url": "/articles/how-to-clear-and-prevent-jams" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Dec 11, 2016", - "description": "This guide will show you how\u00a0a few simple mixtures\u00a0of ABS and acetone will be\u00a0a helpful new staple\u00a0in your 3D printing toolbox.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z9X2aaebD7eyLeJJBX-xty_eO7iGagsTnxqauIsw7GXIgT9lpIEg2VvEFH7teTaRe5of8v34CkXpdPCSAkyl2G2PcA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z9X2aaebD7eyLeJJBX-xty_eO7iGagsTnxqauIsw7GXIgT9lpIEg2VvEFH7teTaRe5of8v34CkXpdPCSAkyl2G2PcA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgLOouqQKDA", - "preview": "

When someone is new to 3D printing, it is highly recommended to start with PLA filament, and having mastered that, to begin experimenting with different and more advanced materials. While PLA and ABS filament are the two most popular filaments, they have drastically different properties from each other.

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PLA is such a great beginner material because it doesn't warp, doesn't need high temperatures, and it doesn't give off fumes as you print. ABS has the opposite properties on all accounts, however, what it holds over PLA is its temperature resistance; leave a PLA print and an ABS print in your car on a hot day and you will find the PLA has warped but the ABS hasn't. Additionally, ABS has more finishing techniques available from its chemical makeup: it sands easier than PLA and you can use acetone to melt away the layer lines.

", - "reference": "how-to-make-abs-juice-glue-and-slurry", - "title": "How To Make ABS Juice, Glue, and Slurry", - "url": "/news/how-to-make-abs-juice-glue-and-slurry" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Oct 20, 2016", - "description": "Durable and easy to print, PETG filament is likely to take over as the most commonly-used filament. This in-depth guide provides a few tips and tricks on how to get started and embrace the fantastic properties of this material. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/45TmCajv4Znajv9kxnWpJWH5Dd_2kxfkSa7_iYIbWMI1jLYqYsJ5ItxMc96mFpyiC3GbUqyF-yjtugAksAC5CYSP", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/45TmCajv4Znajv9kxnWpJWH5Dd_2kxfkSa7_iYIbWMI1jLYqYsJ5ItxMc96mFpyiC3GbUqyF-yjtugAksAC5CYSP", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgP3YibMJDA", - "preview": "

PETG is an abbreviation for Polyethylene Terephthalate (with a glycol modification) which is one of the most common polymers used today. It’s used to make water bottles, food packaging, and countless other common plastic items. As a 3D printing filament, PETG plastic has proven its worth as a durable material that is easy to use. Figuratively speaking, it combines the most useful characteristics of ABS filament (the rigidity and mechanical properties for functional parts) with the ease of printing that PLA filament affords. Kind of a “best of both worlds” scenario.

", - "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-petg-filament", - "title": "How to Succeed when Printing with PETG Filament", - "url": "/news/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-petg-filament" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Apr 21, 2014", - "description": "Last year, we published an article talking about how to succeed while printing with PLA. While we still love printing with PLA, we neglected to write about the sister filament - ABS. Prepare your printer and get a notepad - the time has come.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9LmjgoUx1qtaW13sBF7e9RzIBZInMcOuNdjZPiI9X0Oh5ALXyRIe75_0OJVM-NktgxFu7korKmt5wDwt0cHl6cN4", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9LmjgoUx1qtaW13sBF7e9RzIBZInMcOuNdjZPiI9X0Oh5ALXyRIe75_0OJVM-NktgxFu7korKmt5wDwt0cHl6cN4", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNCIw6AJDA", - "preview": "

ABS is one of the most commonly used, and most versatile materials available in 3D printing today. If you're new to the scene though, it can be a bit daunting to start with. However, the payoff is worth it. Learning to print well with ABS is essential if you want strong, heat resistant parts.

", - "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-abs", - "title": "How To Succeed When Printing With ABS", - "url": "/articles/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-abs" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Apr 5, 2017", - "description": "Clogged nozzles - they happen. This informative guide will help you get your 3D printer back up and running.\u00a0", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7AmIp_gA6cAPiSzZupJi2clJ-oRAHKZYTgRDtE20r06-1DaTZv6N379jESvC5Zl_WHuVkO75mN1eSoDHjiMOmiQfSQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7AmIp_gA6cAPiSzZupJi2clJ-oRAHKZYTgRDtE20r06-1DaTZv6N379jESvC5Zl_WHuVkO75mN1eSoDHjiMOmiQfSQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPf_srwKDA", - "preview": "

Every so often, you might find your prints are looking stringy, sparse, and with missing layers. If you check through our 3D printer troubleshooting guide, you'd figure out your nozzle is more than likely clogged. No worries - this guide will help you solve the issue and get you printing again in no time. 

", - "reference": "how-to-unclog-a-3d-printer-nozzle", - "title": "How To Unclog a 3D Printer Nozzle", - "url": "/news/how-to-unclog-a-3d-printer-nozzle" - }, - { - "author": "Alec Richter", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Feb 9, 2017", - "description": "Learn about different dissolvable materials and how they can enhance your dual extrusion\u00a0prints in the second part of our\u00a0in-depth look at support material and how to print with PVA.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bj_6HhmP14X9SX9rDRl10t_khZIJPTfgJh1BnWzUrQE7buJz3BFd1uVvzO9DbbnFVDmWucIKKG3niRzaGAIVONC", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bj_6HhmP14X9SX9rDRl10t_khZIJPTfgJh1BnWzUrQE7buJz3BFd1uVvzO9DbbnFVDmWucIKKG3niRzaGAIVONC", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNvD3r8JDA", - "preview": "

Our previous article, How To Use Support Material: Part 1, delved into the specifics of how single extrusion support works and some design considerations that you might have to take into account when modeling an object. With dual-extrusion support printing, all that goes out the window.

", - "reference": "how-to-use-support-material:-part-2", - "title": "How To Use Support Material: Part 2", - "url": "/news/how-to-use-support-material:-part-2" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "May 29, 2017", - "description": "Learn the fundamental steps to successfully print this dissolvable support material and why it's necessary for complex dual-extruded parts. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HQp59APgPP1hiBkaBEDsp73zFe0futNMYg2OfJm3PvB9JElpI3Z-9X80oqYaj0rtxTQeeu5wJAyYt6J3lfhbqAvg8Q", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HQp59APgPP1hiBkaBEDsp73zFe0futNMYg2OfJm3PvB9JElpI3Z-9X80oqYaj0rtxTQeeu5wJAyYt6J3lfhbqAvg8Q", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgP_JpLsKDA", - "preview": "

PVA filament is a critical material for creating complex parts on a dual extrusion 3D printer. If you aren't using this material yet, you need to be. These tips and tricks for printing with PVA will guide you to success. 

", - "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-3d-printing-with-pva-support-material", - "title": "How To Succeed When 3D Printing With PVA Support Material", - "url": "/news/how-to-succeed-when-3d-printing-with-pva-support-material" - } - ], - "group_link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/topic/how-to", - "group_subtitle": "Step by step to success", - "group_title": "How To Guides", - "icon_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fuFgkmUJcUbsdeIOcLc2dAWeyKHhuDQ00Zlvs8w-36Tm3NqfPEpSXFqvYuaiHXFgfGS7oDRcAPfqIxHFLAK238bmeg=s60" - }, + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series-abs", + "subtitle": "MH Build Series ABS 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer ABS plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", + "title": "MH Build Series ABS" + }, { - "content_type": "article_group", - "group_items": [ - { - "author": "Chris Morgan", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Mar 5, 2018", - "description": "MatterHackers' March Hacker of the Month, Drew Aufhammer, grew his 3D printing hobby into a profession for helping physical therapists.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rzpiJkM6a4Rnb0yI25PFx4sdKjAbcCEf2mhCNaWGSmDfSvjnKm1GmzaFVhLVCCv3XNp6TdNMofLiKsRbDMhT6j_mgQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FP8AfivH6u-qzQsXbEqH_28xZVHuNf2Q6Bf07KLG55qP6IZSL3RKenEB_i7tbocFrM28SzwGjhq0dyg_vOXM7rFDNZ8", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPqGyKEKDA", - "preview": "

In The Beginning

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For some of us, turning a passion for a hobby into a profession can become a reality. This story is all about Drew Aufhammer, who did just that with his love of 3D printing.

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", - "reference": "3d-printing-and-mold-making-in-physical-therapy", - "title": "3D Printed Physical Therapy Tools", - "url": "/articles/3d-printing-and-mold-making-in-physical-therapy" - }, - { - "author": "Chris Morgan", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Feb 5, 2018", - "description": "Hacker of the Month, Matt Schmotzer, goes over the process and inspiration for how he designs, 3D prints and assembles scale models of roller coasters.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q1kqg0YmjL9XUMMViRWoROM7exnJMLCaPTrUComRF30-DQuBeaqcCFGlBRtcsjgyUdNMmnXeHb3us_xy80I40lfy9w", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q1kqg0YmjL9XUMMViRWoROM7exnJMLCaPTrUComRF30-DQuBeaqcCFGlBRtcsjgyUdNMmnXeHb3us_xy80I40lfy9w", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPKAg7kKDA", - "preview": "

Our February Hacker of the Month is Matt Schmotzer, who hails from Gross Pointe Park in Michigan. Matt currently works for Ford Motor Company on turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines. While his work sounds impressive, it pales in comparison to his latest 3D printing hobby build; a fully-functioning, to-scale replica of the Invertigo roller coaster at Kings Island Amusement Park in Ohio.

", - "reference": "3d-printed-working-roller-coaster-model", - "title": "3D Printed Working Roller Coaster Model", - "url": "/articles/3d-printed-working-roller-coaster-model" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Oct 16, 2017", - "description": "David Martin of Dicey Ventures Studios, MatterHackers' November Hacker of the Month, creates 3D printed pieces for fantasy-driven tabletop games.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/urJP8DETNUHC2gOTXJcDsoHpDTPZuGKmJgybHm32ITLLr0JD19GcRxEhtszXrt88EsyovYh4tHC4Loa5U0E4CYgjrBw", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/biywd_gOSussz4re9eUh_vZrrr3yMxWOin2skT8tHcI88cpL5uN8DPy-efZp6cGAj0e06H2jLfxyt7jLbxc9s4dS9cM", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMyxz_8IDA", - "preview": "

3D printers are the ultimate customization tool. They can help expand any hobby. Seriously - we've covered someone who uses 3D printing for ocean kayaking, to someone who uses it for building combat robots. 3D printers really can do some incredible things. Something that we love here at MatterHackers, though, is when one persons' passion turns into a business, and, thanks to 3D printing, is then shared with others. David Martin, our November Hacker of the Month, started his company, Dicey Ventures, which created The Elemental Village, table-top fantasy game pieces that are 3D printed.

", - "reference": "custom-3d-printed-game-pieces", - "title": "Custom 3D Printed Game Pieces ", - "url": "/articles/custom-3d-printed-game-pieces" - }, - { - "author": "Guest Contributor: Jim Leemhuis", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Sep 14, 2017", - "description": "Learn how Jim Leemhuis is using PETG 3D filament to create amazing talking tiki statues. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZMsuRHXO_lJrOVcW5-ovp-dU0I548BXk0Z7ULAc1aUt0zDKNU5UkMWFh3T7o77EL55q8burej8cqY4GECHje413PMA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZMsuRHXO_lJrOVcW5-ovp-dU0I548BXk0Z7ULAc1aUt0zDKNU5UkMWFh3T7o77EL55q8burej8cqY4GECHje413PMA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwOTVnrUJDA", - "preview": "

My name is Jim Leemhuis. I’m 34 years old from Lexington, Kentucky. By day, I’m a mechanical engineer helping design laser printers for Lexmark International Inc. By night, I spend my time 3D printing, coding, and assembling animatronic figures.

", - "reference": "3d-printed-animatronic-talking-tiki-statues", - "title": "3D Printed Animatronic Talking Tiki Statues", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-animatronic-talking-tiki-statues" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Aug 14, 2017", - "description": "Corey Nason, our September Hacker of the Month, uses 3D printing and carbon fiber infused NylonX to create battle-worthy robots.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tqkBLSsqtuFwewZTQF-YL4fRe1oOBRPY22YbiOh37o0cwANQ67_mE9pHscu0nivAARMG7OSX27y6rEas8LdGfGEx", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vzEY6xnfjyqX2-uteLI_r7fl8FxgCjQ7P5mroqUTH8yz99_SVOlX1Y9aUKEfJAIotzaGYkGvi3bJwM3xrgfSeHWF", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwLjhrLsKDA", - "preview": "

I don't think there is anyone out there who doesn't think the words \"awesome\" or \"rad\" when they hear the words \"combat robot.\" If there is, and that person happens to be reading this article, they should probably just move on to the next great MatterHackers article, because this section is all about Corey Nason's awesome and rad 3D printed battle bot!

", - "reference": "3d-printed-nylonx-combat-robot", - "title": "3D Printed NylonX Combat Robot", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-nylonx-combat-robot" - }, - { - "author": "Guest Contributor Rusty Atkeisson", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Aug 6, 2017", - "description": "Rusty Atkeisson, our August Hacker of the Month, takes us inside the imaginative process behind his 3D printed animatronic dragons.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TBtyuh3KbzfGD8j7Jmm7KA7MlTn_ZYVZRDZK6xbJscLR05eFjNEscCh0_ft6ydE-E7mi8phhOxbpGR36Ds7dPd0", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/A5iIZUIgRAQj8j39B7uF3SbtoTCFZ4Ishw8gRt-ckefk-rdGS45BuJSWGLxYn6Tw7f4vaKGZ-yntFj99qCrIC_DZ4-U", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwJjY5LoLDA", - "preview": "

Building dragons may be one of those situations where you are training yourself as much as your creature.  In the course of breathing life into Vogal, Zeichen Zwei, Saphira, and the other dragons, I have learned innumerable skills and tricks from beyond the classroom and even beyond the almost endless reaches of YouTube and Google.  I still have a long road a head of me in creating even more lifelike creatures but here's a bit of a break down of what I've gone through, lessons I've learned, and useful tips to help the aspiring puppeteer along the way.  Although, puppeteer doesn't sound quite right in this light; maybe we had best call ourselves a sorcerer's apprentice.

", - "reference": "3d-printed-animatronic-dragons", - "title": "3D Printed Animatronic Dragons", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-animatronic-dragons" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Jul 5, 2017", - "description": "Garrett Faulkner, our July Hacker of the Month, uses 3D printing to create perfect architectural designs of homes. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z_rbqgyuN6ZPte7-BV1RuNddpTzxTkeF4rHNaVNJy_g5hutMbhuOr_RZP7lKxV1fVY41etyaGZO6KBR_z3mIFP6Q2bI", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z_rbqgyuN6ZPte7-BV1RuNddpTzxTkeF4rHNaVNJy_g5hutMbhuOr_RZP7lKxV1fVY41etyaGZO6KBR_z3mIFP6Q2bI", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwLCp1bUKDA", - "preview": "

Garrett Faulkner, our July Hacker of the month, is a Digital Fabrication Specialist and Architectural Model Maker for Faulkner Industrial, where he makes designs come to life with the use of 3D printing. 

", - "reference": "stunning-3d-printed-architectural-designs", - "title": "Stunning 3D Printed Architectural Designs", - "url": "/articles/stunning-3d-printed-architectural-designs" - }, - { - "author": "Guest Contributor Calvin Iba", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "May 31, 2017", - "description": "Cal Poly Pomona's Human Powered Vehicle Team, our June Hackers of the Month, designed and 3D printed functional bike components using PRO Series Nylon to race in an intercollegiate competition. Calvin Iba, a member of the team, describes his firsthand experience. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gFFW4sgC20UHHfdaFY9n5wNJr6FlWsagwyn5pVdcpMej1_5_9P90iQ0HXRWNPKZQIwLuRQSOeAST8dTuEOSkMhWL-GU", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gFFW4sgC20UHHfdaFY9n5wNJr6FlWsagwyn5pVdcpMej1_5_9P90iQ0HXRWNPKZQIwLuRQSOeAST8dTuEOSkMhWL-GU", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwIDeh6IKDA", - "preview": "

Cal Poly Pomona’s Human Powered Vehicle team is a club that designs and builds a recumbent bicycle and competes with it against other colleges. This year, we made a “tadpole” which uses two front wheels and one rear wheel. We used 3d printing to build critical components of the bike.

", - "reference": "3d-printed-bike-parts", - "title": "3D Printed Bike Parts", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-bike-parts" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Apr 11, 2017", - "description": "Brooke Peterson, our May Hacker of the Month, used 3D printing to create a mission model for her fourth grade project. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3BlIjENzYH_PQ4r7TaiQa81yD9o1qIF4-QYmGRB2WhQbhXHX4TO65Y5C_6hZ1QAlqnMpRSLzqtfPnudrSOrp5ALH6A", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3BlIjENzYH_PQ4r7TaiQa81yD9o1qIF4-QYmGRB2WhQbhXHX4TO65Y5C_6hZ1QAlqnMpRSLzqtfPnudrSOrp5ALH6A", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgI_0u6MKDA", - "preview": "

We love when 3D printing is being used for education, especially at the elementary level - get 'em obsessed with 3D printing while their young! What we love even more, though, is when students problem solve using 3D printers on their own. Brooke Peterson, a fourth grade student from California, decided that the best way to create her California Mission project was to use her father's 3D printer. 

", - "reference": "3d-printed-california-mission-model", - "title": "3D Printed California Mission Model", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-california-mission-model" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Aug 3, 2015", - "description": "What do you get when you combine animal lovers and 3D printing? 3D designed and printed solutions for our fuzzy friends in need, of course! Meet Bubbles, the adorable fur baby with two legs and a 3D printed cart.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LgK-7zt6rYquqge9X49wf62C_3w8QqsT4OtnpMNpLlMUqsFCms4VdreqQZg4Kco_Da1pdZmbsuSZUWNYMrV32NOU9g", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LgK-7zt6rYquqge9X49wf62C_3w8QqsT4OtnpMNpLlMUqsFCms4VdreqQZg4Kco_Da1pdZmbsuSZUWNYMrV32NOU9g", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIrU5rkKDA", - "preview": "

Congratulations to Trevor Byers, the 3D printing animal lover who gave his dog, Bubbles, the ability to walk. Bubbles the weiner dog, born July 27, 2014, came into the world without her two front legs - but, as you can tell from the picture below, this did not discourage her! 

", - "reference": "august-2015-hacker-of-the-month-two-legged-wiener-dog-keeps-rolling-with-3d-printing", - "title": "Two Legged Wiener Dog Keeps Rolling with 3D Printing", - "url": "/news/august-2015-hacker-of-the-month-two-legged-wiener-dog-keeps-rolling-with-3d-printing" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Jul 6, 2015", - "description": "Wait - THAT is 3D printed? Check out what Mekah Design Studios has done to make Standard PLA look like a rustic artifact. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rryDDq6ktt9hbuHJ15GMxv40SLU2FoBSNWgRzQsIfWkiVMXVjMzZjCbg100bKRwVeBFE8F3IpoiF8LMTZiTJQAqgFQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rryDDq6ktt9hbuHJ15GMxv40SLU2FoBSNWgRzQsIfWkiVMXVjMzZjCbg100bKRwVeBFE8F3IpoiF8LMTZiTJQAqgFQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNKHvbUJDA", - "preview": "

Congratulations to Mekah Design Studios, our July 2015 Hacker of the Month! Mekah Design Studios has implemeted 3D printing into part of their craft. Printing for about a year, the Mekah team has been improving the speed and quality of their work with the use of their SeeMeCNC Orion. Less than a year ago, the team had a request for 20 trophies that they chose to fulfill with the help of 3D printing.

", - "reference": "july-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "July 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/july-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Jun 1, 2015", - "description": "3D Printing and Skateboarding? Find out what they have in common with Kevin Seele and BLOCK Riser Innovations. Let all your hobbies collide!", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IpSyhHkSOlayU6b5Qbux8g0VZ7xCdEEumhUAvTd1iLrFNfFDy_gct1tN16uP-6aNmyNBYjNWxq0NNd8Ht4vh6694UTk", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IpSyhHkSOlayU6b5Qbux8g0VZ7xCdEEumhUAvTd1iLrFNfFDy_gct1tN16uP-6aNmyNBYjNWxq0NNd8Ht4vh6694UTk", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMKXt7UJDA", - "preview": "

It all began three years ago when Kevin Seele, founder of BLOCK Riser Innovations, wanted to combine his two favorite hobbies- skateboarding and building. While the designs for a skateboard's wheels, truck, and body had already expanded and changed over the years, risers had not. In fact, they had stayed exactly the same. Seele realized there was potential for a riser mechanism that had multiple functionalities, which led to the idea of BLOCK risers.

", - "reference": "june-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "June 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/june-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "May 28, 2015", - "description": "Who said you had to be a big kid to print? Meet our nine-year-old Hacker of the Month, Abigail! She uses 3D printing to personalize her play time experience. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xpnHAOwRpJ1nCh2p02tapACUTB1wEqsf8Mta1K86PaW86srH2bUTDJU4v0H9itbZRUiHkZd5MODmx-sdlX5spneI", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xpnHAOwRpJ1nCh2p02tapACUTB1wEqsf8Mta1K86PaW86srH2bUTDJU4v0H9itbZRUiHkZd5MODmx-sdlX5spneI", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMLWl5IIDA", - "preview": "

Small, but incredibly mighty, nine-year-old Abigail wowed us with her impressive dollhouse furniture designs. 

\n

\"I just went on Tinkedcad and started making stuff. It didn't look very real at first because it was flat and then I started adding shapes and it started to build itself,\" Abigail said. 

", - "reference": "may-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "May 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/may-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Apr 5, 2015", - "description": "Introducing Troy Peterson - April's Hacker of the Month! Troy utilizes 3D printing to create silicone molds. Learn how easy it is to quickly develop prototypes for all your future projects that require molds and casts. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5FvS5s_GytcGfEg6UDuS0ej1e9xcvU9llbbljZWvOsyQz6u6qL1dmrAmG-uqDPdR52VpIvaGjnuG_-z9Xzkxk_8uSA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5FvS5s_GytcGfEg6UDuS0ej1e9xcvU9llbbljZWvOsyQz6u6qL1dmrAmG-uqDPdR52VpIvaGjnuG_-z9Xzkxk_8uSA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOz3m78KDA", - "preview": "

A big congrats to Troy Peterson, our April 2015 Hacker of the Month! Troy intrigued us with his method of using 3D printed parts to make production-ready silicone molds. His submission included a thorough video about creating molds for a Skin Rejuvenator that often gets mistaken for a hair dryer. Peterson, who works in Technical Sale and Marketing for BJB Enterprises, has a background in aerospace composites, mold-making, and graphic design. BJB has a long history in product development, entertainment, theme park, and manufacturing industries. They produce raw materials; not finished parts.

", - "reference": "april-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "April 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/april-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Mar 9, 2015", - "description": "Check out March's Hacker of the Month! It's a great way to learn about new projects and designs to print - get to know your fellow 3D printing community through this friendly monthly competition!", - "hero": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/I2XmBcq5LIhzx0DXFMQZiKRnpl4C_edGxdFgstlQNmk26CtjNnyreO-nE7jsHEUvjptzHhpGoIE3gg8Z823qIOCs", - "icon": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/I2XmBcq5LIhzx0DXFMQZiKRnpl4C_edGxdFgstlQNmk26CtjNnyreO-nE7jsHEUvjptzHhpGoIE3gg8Z823qIOCs", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIzb2KUKDA", - "preview": "

Congratulations to Chris Wlezien, our March 2015 Hacker of the Month who impressed us with his practical and thoughtful Father's Day present! After his father had recently moved, Wlezien created a unique controllable LED address bar that made for the perfect Father's Day gift. 

", - "reference": "march-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "March 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/march-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Feb 9, 2015", - "description": "Check out February's Hacker of the Month! It's a great way to learn about new projects and designs to print - get to know your fellow 3D printing community through this friendly monthly competition! ", - "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/p2EifD4jEpcQa9kBIGEheWZfn2A3ORcjeshVGkNP4vqiS9GAuGRNIG2sqreAQsHh6fD2FG49asIJvizjMzZ9V6VAYCQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/p2EifD4jEpcQa9kBIGEheWZfn2A3ORcjeshVGkNP4vqiS9GAuGRNIG2sqreAQsHh6fD2FG49asIJvizjMzZ9V6VAYCQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJS_naYKDA", - "preview": "

Congratulations to our February Hacker of the Month, Jesse Laster, who impressed us with his crafty 3D printed Meter Clock! According to Laster, it all began with the idea to make a birthday gift for good friend Lauren Bitikofer, electricity and aviation professor at the School of Aeronautical Science at LeTourneau University.

\n

\"I started with the idea that I wanted to make a meter clock then I started putting together the pieces that I needed to get that result. Printing the box turned out to be one of the easiest parts of the build.\" said Laster.

", - "reference": "february-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "February 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/february-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Jan 4, 2015", - "description": "Now introducing a spot where we highlight interesting and unique projects from our 3D printing community members. ", - "hero": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/RX_s21pnL6pIKRU7AlpBkYcmgLxnDLgd1JMS3EM4A7ltO8XquhsDe1ObMlxNwErVDJOQ7Dn3xE0lTzHzo4spUb84UaQ", - "icon": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/RX_s21pnL6pIKRU7AlpBkYcmgLxnDLgd1JMS3EM4A7ltO8XquhsDe1ObMlxNwErVDJOQ7Dn3xE0lTzHzo4spUb84UaQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMT34LUKDA", - "preview": "

We love all the innovative and creative projects our 3d printing community members are producing. We love them so much we would like to take the opportunity to highlight them. Introducing Hacker of the Month! A new Hacker of the Month will be featured each month in our newsletter as well as on our social media platforms. The winner also receives one free roll of PRO series ABS or PLA filament.

", - "reference": "january-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "January 2015 Hacker of the Month- Isaac Thompson", - "url": "/news/january-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Sep 8, 2015", - "description": "We've heard the sky is the limit, but what about the sea? Come explore Ruth Blue's underwater world of 3D printing and robotics. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dPMHk1a1qwKpd1lW_fFoOhZ-3SJ5JJDCvaXHeTKkNqpsyC-f-KfVqg5mPJ6bHYLdVjm0Gp0Poxc3Tf4T9E5QwR0bI3c", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dPMHk1a1qwKpd1lW_fFoOhZ-3SJ5JJDCvaXHeTKkNqpsyC-f-KfVqg5mPJ6bHYLdVjm0Gp0Poxc3Tf4T9E5QwR0bI3c", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJqN46MLDA", - "preview": "

For many of us, all it took was one glance at a 3D printer to be immediately mesmerized, and then subsequently hooked. It was no different for 15 year old Ruth Blue. Her father brought home a Lulzbot for his projects, and over one weekend Ruth began to learn about the machine before eventually designing and printing projects of her own. \"From that moment forward I think the machine has been buzzing on one project after another,\" said Rhonda Blue, Ruth's mother, \"we live in an amazing time and just have so much fun with it!\"

", - "reference": "september-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "September 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/september-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Oct 5, 2015", - "description": "How one couple combined 3D printing with their passion for homebrewing by designing a 3D printed keg dispensing system for specialty suds. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TM1hNJJtBlTyX_nW-w15f7NMwhj8iIdbvf31fMxP7v9kCaVAJFqVewu1dKEvFOBvQ56TAfmnUBmqAOPqxP-wDF3N2g", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TM1hNJJtBlTyX_nW-w15f7NMwhj8iIdbvf31fMxP7v9kCaVAJFqVewu1dKEvFOBvQ56TAfmnUBmqAOPqxP-wDF3N2g", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPqnyqUKDA", - "preview": "

Last December, Joe Dietz and his wife Amy needed a way to dispense their homebrewed beer on the go. With a great idea and the power of 3D printing, they found their solution: Attach-a-Tap!

", - "reference": "october-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "October 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/october-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Nov 8, 2015", - "description": "Meet Todd Borrel, a man who had an idea for his video game controller and learned how to create it with 3D printing in a matter of months. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lXX7_DuUbcb80r-Bz8agnmxckgr-wzfdYFP20Y2jDnJOA-LZmTF_LTKYBek8MNB6MsoLx7JaJaNm3I2oqqFtns6MJdo", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lXX7_DuUbcb80r-Bz8agnmxckgr-wzfdYFP20Y2jDnJOA-LZmTF_LTKYBek8MNB6MsoLx7JaJaNm3I2oqqFtns6MJdo", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKa1o6UKDA", - "preview": "

It all began when Todd Borrel was playing a football game on his Xbox when the problem started to arise. His thumbs kept slipping on the joystick controllers causing his game performance to suffer. After several torturous games, Borrel decided enough was enough - he was going to create something to solve his problem.

", - "reference": "november-2015-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "November 2015 Hacker of the Month", - "url": "/news/november-2015-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Dec 16, 2015", - "description": "Seventeen years ago, Kyle Weems was assigned a science project on yo-yos that sparked an untapped passion. Since then, he has turned that passion into a business: 3D printed custom yo-yos.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KNiQtAVjxUyusVLK9gHb6wBPxaJU7olfiBoLHBHmN8zAiaZq_zC13wBALrPIEo7Sbcd5QOxNKrlvjkt977d6C_zXsQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KNiQtAVjxUyusVLK9gHb6wBPxaJU7olfiBoLHBHmN8zAiaZq_zC13wBALrPIEo7Sbcd5QOxNKrlvjkt977d6C_zXsQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPbo5aoKDA", - "preview": "

In 1998, promotional ads worldwide were running on yo-yos. Not only were these toys fun, but they were educational. That same year, Kyle Weems was assigned to do a science project on these entertaining toys, seeing that they were (and still are) the perfect example of rotational physics. As his love for yo-yos grew, Weems had no idea that this particular science project would change his life. 

", - "reference": "december-2016-hacker-of-the-month", - "title": "Highly Engineered and 3D Printed Yo-Yos", - "url": "/news/december-2016-hacker-of-the-month" - }, - { - "author": "Roger Freeman", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Jan 13, 2016", - "description": "Roger Freeman, inventor of the Freebird Flight drone, shares his 3D printing story and the process behind developing his drone.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jeugoMlP65CYsFm4HSl1K7l0F9QEM-4ls_qweDGarW_l75f4BaiSRpbeRLnzRiAV75RXXdYHu8JXQEWrS2AmT4pi", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jeugoMlP65CYsFm4HSl1K7l0F9QEM-4ls_qweDGarW_l75f4BaiSRpbeRLnzRiAV75RXXdYHu8JXQEWrS2AmT4pi", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgK6yif8LDA", - "preview": "

Technology and the latest gadgets have always been an interest to me, but they were confined to hobbies during my limited free time as a financial analyst for nearly 20 years. I decided to take some time away from that world in early 2014 after  the 2008 financial crisis effects sapped the industry of a lot of the bright minds that had attracted me to it in the mid-‘90s. I was hoping to unleash my creativity in developing something new where I could make a difference, and I was excited to finally have some time to do that.

", - "reference": "january-2016-hacker-of-the-month-freebird-flight", - "title": "January 2016 Hacker of the Month- Freebird Flight", - "url": "/news/january-2016-hacker-of-the-month-freebird-flight" - }, - { - "author": "Erica Derrico", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Feb 1, 2016", - "description": "Matt Manhattan, our February Hacker of the Month, took a stab at merging an everyday object with 3D printed parts to create a new, customized item. With great success, he's done it! Everyone has one, but do you have your very own, personalized night light? ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgN7G-aYKDA", - "preview": "

It began how all of us often get into 3D printing - a little curiosity. Two years ago, Matt Manhattan decided to follow through with that curiosity and jumped into 3D printing. Excited, Manhattan researched for a year and finally bought a machine - Ultimaker 2.

", - "reference": "create-your-own-custom-night-light", - "title": "Create Your Own Custom Night Light", - "url": "/news/create-your-own-custom-night-light" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Feb 18, 2016", - "description": "3D printing is not limited to functional parts and rapid prototyping. Our March Hacker of the Month, Shane Hope, proves this with his biological molecular model masterpieces. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kNf-6C8A5DCeHUvzDjt89OU4rafa4nYJkqI-yzY1Mtfc6gdLu06x1dWxE78nhSep-L1wCDWDKAH632n-m9nhZszHZ-o", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kNf-6C8A5DCeHUvzDjt89OU4rafa4nYJkqI-yzY1Mtfc6gdLu06x1dWxE78nhSep-L1wCDWDKAH632n-m9nhZszHZ-o", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgP7MsacKDA", - "preview": "

We here at MatterHackers love exploring the possibilities of 3D printing. Whether it's new materials, complex designs, or even just silly projects, we've had our fair share of experimentation. One realm that is difficult to transition into, however, is the world of art. 

", - "reference": "march-2016-hacker-of-the-month---art-by-hope", - "title": "3D Printed Molecular Masterpieces", - "url": "/articles/march-2016-hacker-of-the-month---art-by-hope" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Apr 10, 2016", - "description": "Well known for his epic cosplay work, artist and founder of Hero Complex Props, Michael Ruddy, uses 3d printing to help his son with autism, and in his day job as a school handyman. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rzjcJ1hiijaLrlp5E_z39lIr4pz9UkENErThrSzi2LaoJh-e5JS41fZYtT2WY7GWtskLr8OlYVxcvnAeik12rMOetA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rzjcJ1hiijaLrlp5E_z39lIr4pz9UkENErThrSzi2LaoJh-e5JS41fZYtT2WY7GWtskLr8OlYVxcvnAeik12rMOetA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMGZ8aMKDA", - "preview": "

It is hard not to feel excited or giddy when you hear Michael Ruddy speak about his passion: 3D printing.

\n

Ruddy first started 3D printing at the school where he works as a handyman when a neighboring school gave them an original MakerBot. \"The other school thought it was broken - obviously it wasn't broken, the nozzle was just clogged,\" said Ruddy.

\n

Ahhh, the joys of 3D printing. 

\n

\"The IT guy and I looked at it together, and the second we got it working, I thought, we can use this for everything\" - and he pretty much has.

", - "reference": "april-2016-hacker-of-the-month-3d-printed-cosplay-fun", - "title": "3D Printing Beyond Cosplay", - "url": "/articles/april-2016-hacker-of-the-month-3d-printed-cosplay-fun" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "articles", - "date_published": "Apr 20, 2016", - "description": "Captain Andrew Stotts, MatterHackers' May Hacker of the Month, doesn't just save lives and extinguish fires - he also improves the workplace for both himself and his team with 3D printing. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1KGqxw0f_RRaB7V_wRbLhMSmJUhmH-8MlJXHZ-MwOIh1KWz42wLjmXLDvs4s-uRtrKq6OSIXqU2_pPFy59SVN2bqucA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1KGqxw0f_RRaB7V_wRbLhMSmJUhmH-8MlJXHZ-MwOIh1KWz42wLjmXLDvs4s-uRtrKq6OSIXqU2_pPFy59SVN2bqucA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNGWxrQKDA", - "preview": "

Fire Fighter Captain Andrew Stotts first heard about 3D printing from a friend who is a high school shop teacher. Ever since then he's been hooked - hooked to the point that in the past year and a half, he now owns and operates a fleet of 15 printers.

", - "reference": "15-surprising-ways-firemen-can-use-3d-printing", - "title": "15 Surprising Ways Firefighters Are Using 3D Printing", - "url": "/articles/15-surprising-ways-firemen-can-use-3d-printing" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "May 18, 2016", - "description": "Saroj Manandhar, MatterHackers' June Hacker of the Month, shares his secrets to achieving the sleek, detailed prints we all crave.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y46rsZ_mTbXVqXfavnrEB7ATKHSfGkQPs1I1QZAPwPWgulnWHvzKy9eisfvVHmmKeOyOGEp3JKOARVXK07KcKKqCe34", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y46rsZ_mTbXVqXfavnrEB7ATKHSfGkQPs1I1QZAPwPWgulnWHvzKy9eisfvVHmmKeOyOGEp3JKOARVXK07KcKKqCe34", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMmUoq8JDA", - "preview": "

Saroj Manandhar, an Engineering Manager at The Toro Company, first learned about 3D printing when he attended a tradeshow in 1999, where he set his eyes on a Stratasys FDM 3000. Right then and there, he knew he had to have one.

", - "reference": "four-awesome-finishing-touches-to-make-realistic-movie-models", - "title": "Four Awesome Finishing Touches to Make Realistic Movie Models", - "url": "/news/four-awesome-finishing-touches-to-make-realistic-movie-models" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Jun 29, 2016", - "description": "From giant statues to hydroponics, MatterHackers' July Hacker of the Month, Andrew Harmon, designs and constructs art pieces in addition to functional projects.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nu6GPPC2aJVLGosmXoNO-XwTTpSFWlyBmnfE4NlDrtzJyWKHdEUL1asUDRJdEXz1DS5tIE2IBJC8IPEj-dQA62o6CQ", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nu6GPPC2aJVLGosmXoNO-XwTTpSFWlyBmnfE4NlDrtzJyWKHdEUL1asUDRJdEXz1DS5tIE2IBJC8IPEj-dQA62o6CQ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNnm06IKDA", - "preview": "

Last month, we published an article on exceeding the build volume of your printer - you can find it here if you missed it. Well, if anyone has been exceeding build volumes, as well as expectations, it's Andrew Harmon. Harmon, July's Hacker of the Month, has mastered transcending the limited space that certain 3D printers allow.

", - "reference": "an-artistic-perspective-on-printing-outside-the-box", - "title": "An Artistic Perspective on Printing Outside the Box", - "url": "/news/an-artistic-perspective-on-printing-outside-the-box" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Aug 17, 2016", - "description": "Jesse Kovarovics, MatterHackers' August Hacker of the Month, creates the world's first 3D printed foam dart blaster: the FDL-1.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kYtMldxWSqhdLAXviLH1EtiX1H8-L2znq_UPvnoKLRZQmb4Pf_FTBC34Op6Q28-G0ASNF3xcIp7h8h-Kw76PvuVZ", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kYtMldxWSqhdLAXviLH1EtiX1H8-L2znq_UPvnoKLRZQmb4Pf_FTBC34Op6Q28-G0ASNF3xcIp7h8h-Kw76PvuVZ", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIXinKEKDA", - "preview": "

When it comes to foam dart guns, you could say that we here at MatterHackers are big fans. Seriously, not one holiday party has gone by where an all-out battle of flying foam darts ensues. So, needless to say, we were very excited to feature Jesse Kovarovics, creator of the FDL-1, for our August Hacker of the Month. 

\n

To print your own FDL-1, visit the MatterHackers Digital Design Store, files are free!

", - "reference": "the-most-incredible-3d-printed-dart-launcher-youll-ever-see", - "title": "The Most Incredible 3D Printed Dart Launcher You'll Ever See", - "url": "/news/the-most-incredible-3d-printed-dart-launcher-youll-ever-see" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Aug 31, 2016", - "description": "Up your photography game and print your own pinhole camera like Todd Schlemmer, MatterHackers' September Hacker of the Month. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vMdabRDtdeEXNR-WUndh3irPG1q__JM4u3TRiv4xr2ohX8DywO_SH_3zK__w4qUiOQ2ivLpcgpr7AtrsXppSMjyv", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vMdabRDtdeEXNR-WUndh3irPG1q__JM4u3TRiv4xr2ohX8DywO_SH_3zK__w4qUiOQ2ivLpcgpr7AtrsXppSMjyv", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKWX_aUKDA", - "preview": "

We love when 3D printing collides with long-standing hobbies. Enter: Todd Schlemmer, our September Hacker of the Month, and his passion for pinhole cameras and photography. 

\n

Schlemmer has been building pinhole cameras for several years out of traditional carpentry and papercraft. He started 3D printing his cameras in 2012 once he built his Printrbot Plus kit: \"I was delighted by my initial results,\" states Schlemmer, \"and I have continued to develop and refine new camera designs.\"

", - "reference": "3d-printed-pinhole-cameras", - "title": "3D Printed Pinhole Cameras", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-pinhole-cameras" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Oct 2, 2016", - "description": "FarmBot, MatterHackers' October Hacker of the Month, makes traditional agriculture a thing of the past thanks to 3D printed cultivation.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/svaUio6LjnJhLBLLVsNIJjZ4Zl_eitrmGFWeRiHMB59_hLnWihs60R2GmzhNpbQOg1oBWS6xFTSNWUVJVSeRShfl", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/svaUio6LjnJhLBLLVsNIJjZ4Zl_eitrmGFWeRiHMB59_hLnWihs60R2GmzhNpbQOg1oBWS6xFTSNWUVJVSeRShfl", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPXMrqALDA", - "preview": "

Meandering through the produce section of your local supermarket, grabbing items off your shopping list, and tossing them in the cart are pretty mindless tasks. If you are like me, you're probably in zombie mode while shopping, thinking about far more important things like future plans, work, or even reliving embarrassing moments from your past. I'm definitely not thinking about where the tomato in my hand is from, or how the asparagus in my cart traveled to the grocery store. 

", - "reference": "farmbot:-the-open-source,-cnc-farming-robot", - "title": "FarmBot: The Open Source CNC Farming Robot", - "url": "/news/farmbot:-the-open-source,-cnc-farming-robot" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Oct 20, 2016", - "description": "MatterHackers' November Hacker of the Month, Aida Legrand, uses the BCN3D Sigma printer to create incredible 3D printed dolls.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rVBUs3INlUVmgDJsqwcCpPhv5bEFYG0bDHLM5eldW2SjHR2ShXAR-dfKsa_loQXVMrlQuCxTwIofmG2d06GaexnT0gY", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rVBUs3INlUVmgDJsqwcCpPhv5bEFYG0bDHLM5eldW2SjHR2ShXAR-dfKsa_loQXVMrlQuCxTwIofmG2d06GaexnT0gY", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgL37sLEKDA", - "preview": "

Aida Legrand, MatterHackers' November Hacker of the Month, has only been 3D printing since January of 2016. Legrand's husband bought the self proclaimed \"technical geek\" and software engineer a Robo 3D R1 Plus to kick off her 3D printing obsession, which has now become her full blown hobby. She has since upgraded to the BCN3D Sigma, and her prints are stunning - Legrand creates 3D printed ball-jointed dolls.

", - "reference": "you-won", - "title": "You Won't Believe These Dolls are 3D Printed", - "url": "/news/you-won" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Nov 16, 2016", - "description": "See the amazing 3D printed custom car parts from Michael O'Brien, MatterHackers' December Hacker of the Month.\u00a0", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qQ_vlg8QY0kk0yvTzinjKKHcxWws-DWtMrqSunh6B0lXwu_Gt-91S8uHHwqfnwSCAS1r7UFHuULRD6Vqf3gOOI5Rqs0", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qQ_vlg8QY0kk0yvTzinjKKHcxWws-DWtMrqSunh6B0lXwu_Gt-91S8uHHwqfnwSCAS1r7UFHuULRD6Vqf3gOOI5Rqs0", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKPeprwKDA", - "preview": "

It would be an understatement to say that Michael O'Brien likes cars. Take one look at his Instagram, and you'll see what I mean. He's fully immersed in the automotive industry; being lead engineer at the Roadster Shop, I'd imagine that you'd have to be.

\n

When we discovered that O'Brien (aka Magic Mike) was using 3D printing to help design and manufacture custom accessories for cars, we knew he had to be featured as our December Hacker of the Month. 

", - "reference": "3d-printed-custom-car-parts", - "title": "3D Printed Custom Car Parts", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-custom-car-parts" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Dec 19, 2016", - "description": "Theater masks, rockets, e-NABLE hands and more - see how Ashley Ricart, our January Hacker of the Month, is using 3D printing in the classroom.", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_tB9UVAEcUcKXAgaRdKwK81Ic4SMBJ1xnJqtdGJdUkaSYZ_CHVJJcUeScphe-V7ZyJjXRATF7ad3L6dla43Osg2X", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_tB9UVAEcUcKXAgaRdKwK81Ic4SMBJ1xnJqtdGJdUkaSYZ_CHVJJcUeScphe-V7ZyJjXRATF7ad3L6dla43Osg2X", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPPnn74KDA", - "preview": "

Ashley Ricart, our January Hacker of the Month, was first captivated by 3D printing technology around 2012. She originally went to school for character modeling, which eventually led to her discovery of 3D printing. Ricart, who is now a teacher, has been on a mission to implement 3D printing throughout her school - not just in STEM focused classes, but multiple courses, including Theater, English, Latin, and Art. Her most recent endeavor was producing masks and props for the schools production of the play, The Lion King. In total, thirteen masks were printed using seven to eight spools of PLA filament. 

", - "reference": "how-one-educator-is-using-3d-printing-in-the-classroom", - "title": "How One Educator is Using 3D Printing in the Classroom", - "url": "/news/how-one-educator-is-using-3d-printing-in-the-classroom" - }, - { - "author": "Guest Contributor Paul Yanzick", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Feb 9, 2017", - "description": "Paul Yanzick, our February Hacker of the Month, reminds us that 3D printing can be used to impact the lives of others, including his son, Tanner. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UQ7JM0PQ1kB_nnzdcR-G45xNqMWscX2VXttKtkzPPH7tC-BceKOr0r4wBeawGudTkntKBSgqmBOPc6Ee67zET_7sqA", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UQ7JM0PQ1kB_nnzdcR-G45xNqMWscX2VXttKtkzPPH7tC-BceKOr0r4wBeawGudTkntKBSgqmBOPc6Ee67zET_7sqA", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJuNgKoKDA", - "preview": "

Like many of you, what brought me to 3D printing was the ‘cool factor’ – being able to create things out of nothing but a model and what looked like colored trimmer string. I started my journey over 3 years ago now, and at the time I was googly eyed by the impressive prints that people were making, and found it truly amazing that I could make a butterfly, a Christmas tree topper and a minion (my first two prints ever) right in my living room, out of plastic! I was looking forward to the direction that this new hobby may take me, but I would have never guessed where it would go.

", - "reference": "hacker-of-the-month-february-2017", - "title": "Tanner's Story: 3D Printing for Good", - "url": "/news/hacker-of-the-month-february-2017" - }, - { - "author": "MatterHackers", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Mar 8, 2017", - "description": "Additive part design guru Mike Skrzypczak, our March Hacker of the Month, needed a new guitar pedal - enter 3D printing. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BrEOqTLMWjiBUGpyw4ACWViP4-D-yhaUiwKoGlmHJLc9HaII5oDwt8uoH8DNF1O6wj9S_k-pgIBCciHCn8crp0GGVnc", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BrEOqTLMWjiBUGpyw4ACWViP4-D-yhaUiwKoGlmHJLc9HaII5oDwt8uoH8DNF1O6wj9S_k-pgIBCciHCn8crp0GGVnc", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKf_jKUJDA", - "preview": "

One of the many things that I like to emphasize when people ask me \"what can you do with 3D printers\" is that they can enhance your hobbies through customization. Mike Skrzypczak, our March Hacker of the Month, is the perfect example of how any interest can be tweaked due to 3D printing to match personal preferences. 

", - "reference": "hacker-of-the-month-march-2017", - "title": "3D Printed Guitar Pedals", - "url": "/news/hacker-of-the-month-march-2017" - }, - { - "author": "Rhonda Grandy", - "category": "news", - "date_published": "Apr 4, 2017", - "description": "Explore how Anthony Williams, our April Hacker of the Month, designed his 3D printed mechanical Terminator hand replica. ", - "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BMElFWQKF4sYo9QRn9hM6CqPMLB5yDvRsfxveMjTeYUdZ-vFYRjMEBEQ4pXnwyn2BoZVuKAY7IQWXjLhDdo8XXUW", - "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BMElFWQKF4sYo9QRn9hM6CqPMLB5yDvRsfxveMjTeYUdZ-vFYRjMEBEQ4pXnwyn2BoZVuKAY7IQWXjLhDdo8XXUW", - "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgLeKrrwKDA", - "preview": "

For the most part, we all know that you can make some really cool stuff thanks to 3D printing. Anthony Williams, our April Hacker of the Month, makes cool stuff and takes it to the next level by creating awesome videos during his design, printing, and building process. His most recent endeavor: a working mechanical Terminator hand replica. 

", - "reference": "3d-printed-functional-terminator-hand", - "title": "3D Printed Functional Terminator Hand", - "url": "/news/3d-printed-functional-terminator-hand" - } - ], - "group_link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/topic/hacker-of-the-month", - "group_subtitle": "Project ideas and examples", - "group_title": "Get Inspired", - "icon_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_Qyz24S3Fjw4jXeWbkNRfaNTJneb3IGkj-xjQptrXBxOINVwR9q0o14KWsu4KNF9QV6ZwmZTvTTiign0VgbXxqfbBrM=s60" + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/mh-build-series-petg", + "subtitle": "MH Build Series PETG 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer PETG plastic available for producing high quality 3D printed parts at an affordable price.", + "title": "MH Build Series PETG" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20Filament", + "subtitle": "MatterHackers PRO Series Filaments are engineered to highlight the strengths of 3D printer filament. Manufactured to the tightest tolerances and made in the USA.", + "title": "PRO Series Filament" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20series%20PLA", + "subtitle": "PRO Series PLA 3D printing filament is the best 3D printer PLA plastic available for producing professional, high quality 3D printed parts. Made in the USA.", + "title": "PRO Series PLA" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20ABS", + "subtitle": "PRO Series ABS filament is a formulation of ABS plastic intended to help your 3D prints stand out with a beautiful, glossy, opaque finish. Made in the USA.", + "title": "PRO Series ABS" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20PETG", + "subtitle": "PRO Series PETG filament is an industrial strength filament that combines the ease of use of PLA filament with the strength and durability of ABS filament.", + "title": "PRO Series PETG" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20Flex", + "subtitle": "MatterHackers PRO Series Flex 3D printer filament brings all the benefits of flexible filament together with improved strength over other flexible filaments.", + "title": "PRO Series Flex" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PRO%20Series%20Nylon", + "subtitle": "MatterHackers PRO Series Nylon offers the strength and durability of Nylon 3D printer filament now in vibrant colors. Made in the USA.", + "title": "PRO Series Nylon" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/pro-series-ryno", + "subtitle": "Ryno filament is excellent at bridging as well as retraction to keep all of your parts clean without any need for post-processing. ", + "title": "PRO Series Ryno" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/NylonX", + "subtitle": "", + "title": "NylonX" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/PLA", + "subtitle": null, + "title": "PLA Filament" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/ABS", + "subtitle": null, + "title": "ABS Filament" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Carbon%20Fiber%20Reinforced%20PLA", + "subtitle": null, + "title": "Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/ColorFabb%20Fill%20Series", + "subtitle": null, + "title": "ColorFabb Fill Series" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/NinjaTek", + "subtitle": "", + "title": "NinjaTek" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Soft%20PLA", + "subtitle": null, + "title": "Soft PLA" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/TPU%20%28Thermoplastic%20Polyurethane%29", + "subtitle": "TPU is a strong yet bendable filament that has excellent layer to layer bonding that does not allow for any layer separation.", + "title": "PRO Series TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Taulman%203D", + "subtitle": "", + "title": "Taulman 3D" + }, + { + "icon_url": null, + "link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/Ultimaker%20Materials", + "subtitle": "", + "title": "Ultimaker Materials" } - ], - "Status": "success" + ], + "group_link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/store/c/3d-printer-filament", + "group_subtitle": "Browse a huge largest selection of filament", + "group_title": "Order Materials", + "icon_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/duqniQxZ90IJccrsx7svHLZGjRttWPExcxwfhD-_t927_1hnIBr1Cm803F6nZG3fIpKbmrZbyk_G_ekDCHjNfoCgIg" + }, + { + "content_type": "article_group", + "group_items": [ + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Mar 21, 2018", + "description": "Get your workbench organized with these awesome 3D printed tools!", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Bs9JGa8Dj7qrc2bJkaTgVl3J5UBwbZxlX4vlEgSt3Cp_dD60pJpwz4yJvIadPnF_RAS0RIxBqfZbxVE2i5OwY7OzTg", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7wOHz0dNb5gVbYm6iKg0KQ4g3bHno1329h4gkc7lj9-r5I-JEBf0t7xNsZQ3bbouTA_z8AXA-4U4p-z8AJJynBhtew", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPjZ5LgKDA", + "preview": "

If you're anything like me, your workbench is either in a state of chaos or meticulously organized for about 30 seconds before I start my next project. With this collection of workbench and pegboard related 3D models, hopefully my bench and yours spend just a little more time clean and tidy.

", + "reference": "top-ten-3d-prints-for-your-workbench", + "title": "Top Ten 3D Prints For Your Workbench", + "url": "/articles/top-ten-3d-prints-for-your-workbench" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Feb 21, 2018", + "description": "Follow this step-by-step process that uses 3D printing to create molds for parts that contain complex curves or multiple facets. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ID4I4ea4VT7OSpBaqV-O2LDI9Wc8txr3Z0MXPRfzb5XkcaiglbLy9tE-40cM1MX5hHviRQHFHlUz3ahMoCLd3-aJBEY", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TzFfenblY6s09OiO6NP54aIhTdsPgX2pqmWbBO_qYgYacIID53aFCyj0q2oOPdwz-HYMhCmVdYdG3gC4kV5VDAN4ew", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMbwv7wKDA", + "preview": "

This is the second in a series about making silicone molds for 3D prints. If you missed the first one, you can read it here.

", + "reference": "how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-two-part-silicone-molds", + "title": "How To: Use 3D Printing to Make Two-Part Silicone Molds", + "url": "/articles/how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-two-part-silicone-molds" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Feb 5, 2018", + "description": "MatterHackers' Pro, Alec Richter, unboxes and sets up the awesome Peopoly Moai SLA 3D printer.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MpGHMMXw4cRypvQcxCvOqyO3XDceOANPPuLlM8_bdKjNIePSBbgYtsJ6Rse5NLxDCN2MUS_z6vCUTtp0MqvDBMlY9LI", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MpGHMMXw4cRypvQcxCvOqyO3XDceOANPPuLlM8_bdKjNIePSBbgYtsJ6Rse5NLxDCN2MUS_z6vCUTtp0MqvDBMlY9LI", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMrEvaAKDA", + "preview": "
", + "reference": "how-to-get-started-with-the-peopoly-moai-sla-3d-printer", + "title": "Getting Started with the Peopoly Moai SLA 3D Printer", + "url": "/articles/how-to-get-started-with-the-peopoly-moai-sla-3d-printer" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Oct 25, 2017", + "description": "We've assembled some easy prints to get you started with flexible materials, like MatterHackers' PRO Series Flex, Soft PLA, and NinjaTek. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nmwb1WwQaS6x_d-oeUTObMXCcfUgGYpsNgbg0Spl6z9_1Nx-M5lM_i-1xW-b_g5IZ_58OFPnvmISAiars9o5jBLQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vfkRm29kbLTW8Zm9DSbRyEev5enlP73F0kHlI8rwRl31q-AibjoNEUnkK0WZfoK5LsDMuRaygR7Iyq-n0V2ktF3FD28", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwJzgyaoKDA", + "preview": "

It's time to take the next step in your 3D printing journey and start printing with flexible materials! Using flexible filament allows you to expand your 3D printing projects - sometimes you need a little elasticity and bend for them. All flexible materials are thermoplastic elastomers that have a rubber-like feel once printer, making them perfect for things like custom sized gaskets and stoppers, phone cases, and more! 

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Below is a list of ideas for some quick and easy prints to get you started with flexible filament. Now, flexible 3D filament can be a little tricky to print with, so we've created a guide for you. Learn How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament here! 

", + "reference": "easy-flexible-3d-prints", + "title": "Five Easy Print Ideas To Get You Started With Flexible Filament", + "url": "/articles/easy-flexible-3d-prints" + }, + { + "author": "Mike Campos & Tyler Anderson", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Oct 25, 2017", + "description": "MatterHackers' in-house 3D Printer Technician, Mike Campos, is using 3D printing to develop an affordable prosthetic hand that can be controlled by muscle sensors. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CR6M8rNwRE_vu4khlYVJ_p-xSw_5OzVWKaRCVoc62GB96sFaa8RRVkLqQBkfEM6NXQ5OjtgkVVlPLo4vD3Lwh6z-", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KERuzy_H7pYV0-sGqp47GM6nVTfbn4QdaIHnTzAp60HUFU6Dnb_0qXa9aNTC_5VE0A5RNO7BjbWjINNaP3EpcYMPnLQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwOya56kJDA", + "preview": "

When my son, Carter, turned to me and asked “Daddy, will you build me a hand?”, I didn’t know how to respond. Carter has a congenital below the elbow amputation. Simply put, he was born without his right hand. It was because of his request that I discovered the world of 3D printing.

", + "reference": "the-future-of-3d-printed-prosthetic-hands", + "title": "The Future of 3D Printed Prosthetic Hands", + "url": "/articles/the-future-of-3d-printed-prosthetic-hands" + }, + { + "author": "Dave Gaylord", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Oct 12, 2017", + "description": "Break into 3D carving and make a customized wooden cutting board to step up your culinary game and woodworking skills. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EWbjMpkDS1BIm6jKn1JdTTdEOHvxl2x3bW8oLIW3NnhqkkqDwhLnmal4F8aJobaJZlTQ6kpMUPnrZegngXTSVc7J", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VUEKAwbQIjcBYPfyp6-QRJiLl1BasSt4GxmJ8HsGphrvw6zoxWMbG5vFyv1Yoo1p1Cl7i-ePjkXrOytQWZydOpyjmA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwIzFrrcKDA", + "preview": "

Who doesn't want a custom cutting board?  And with the holidays right around the corner, it's time to start thinking of things that earn you serious brownie points with your loved ones - enter your Inventables Carvey and the customized cutting board project. 

", + "reference": "how-to-create-a-custom-3d-carved-cutting-board", + "title": "How To: Create A Custom 3D Carved Cutting Board", + "url": "/articles/how-to-create-a-custom-3d-carved-cutting-board" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Oct 4, 2017", + "description": "If you're a 3D printing enthusiast, you know the pain of having lots of empty filament spools. Finally, make use of them with the Spool Tool - 3D printed storage solution.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mS_FEIyIGib75ZrChat9Uq2LF-ikaS0upAwAAfrq6YJeRauRBCm-anjjZ8a2LDRMyC6HUEOVXlfWfZagtkW-d3E2", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/B3b-hCyldfvBpJKYQTW1y3A_uHI6OEjAWiTh8E4lVw-sEUsKfLx6a4B7OMmyF4Z5xNHNF3zQw9rZxB_ECU395Dum", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPSUmOUIDA", + "preview": "

If you’re like me, you hoard your empty spools even though you aren’t really sure what to do with them. Not only that, my desk is always a scattered mess of tools, nozzles, bearings, SD cards, USB sticks - you name it - no matter how nicely I try to keep them organized. That’s why I put together this Spool Tool. By combining leftover spools with my scattered mess, I was able to knock out two birds with one stone. Read along to see how to assemble your Spool Tool and turn your desk of despair into a neatly organized workspace.

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", + "reference": "how-to-make-use-of-empty-filament-spools-for-organization", + "title": "How To: Make Use Of Empty Filament Spools for Organization", + "url": "/articles/how-to-make-use-of-empty-filament-spools-for-organization" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Oct 11, 2017", + "description": "Learn how to dye your nylon 3D printed parts to make the perfect custom color in this step-by-step guide. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MOysuNNvgnahMfFiBWarF5x1FMbQLPJX1FYTTNo75G7C-ylPJBVA19oFqUE0zOniUBER27SsGfMJ24vC6dWouF-DWuE", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9vfzk1_l6qvVKhgXLOs0Y777RwEevDCAWwbpE_GrZtPVkptr9ORwhcq_BJkpjFlwB6RuDWF27YqHaELp1TYgXEy-0g", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMyivqAKDA", + "preview": "

Not very long ago, nylon was available in only a couple colors: black, natural, and if you’re lucky, white. Now, you can get nylon in a variety of colors in our PRO Series Nylon, like red, orange, green, blue, white, gray, or black. While there are certainly more options to choose from, there aren’t nearly as many colors when compared to filament like PLA, ABS, or PETG. What are you supposed to do if you need a printed part with the strength, flexibility, and durability of nylon, but you need a color that you’ve only been able to find in PLA? Simple, dye it! Dyeing plastics is really easy and is something I’ve been doing for years for cosplay.

", + "reference": "how-to-dye-nylon-3d-prints", + "title": "How To: Dye Nylon 3D Prints", + "url": "/articles/how-to-dye-nylon-3d-prints" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Aug 27, 2017", + "description": "Follow this step-by-step process that uses 3D printing to create molds for projects that require fast turn-around and consistency. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vC8tHbEFXwpfLG-PXJZK3F0mkq3qLS7gVYv6tdUO-ZOZRfx7POy_tkoNnvqfjniT3sFGBaekVftUxHUiIJS_W_7ikAY", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Do0zaNeImwpfJX3txx_0G-xBf8TO8-6OzFLy8tF_7j9GDmIXMlW0ifzSWv4t12fTb4vur-u33oCk-aUYRLy4pL2x6w", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwISk3boKDA", + "preview": "

With 3D printing, you have the ability to take something you've thought of, make it in a virtual setting, and then make it a reality. It's not a new idea, but it's so much more accessible. You can print after-market parts for your car, fancy or \"pop-culturey\" knobs for your kitchen, customized badges for your car, and so much more. The possibilities are endless for creativity, but 3D printing can take a long time. If you have friends, family, or potential customers all interested in one model that's really time intense, it'll take a while to print it all. The solution: use 3D printing to make a mold.

", + "reference": "how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-open-face-silicone-molds", + "title": "How To: Use 3D Printing To Make Open-Face Silicone Molds", + "url": "/articles/how-to-use-3d-printing-to-make-open-face-silicone-molds" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Sep 10, 2017", + "description": "Learn how to make your PETG 3D prints shine or look like authentic models in this informative finishing guide. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PPxiHtDFx_p0pG-5FantxIbutv_YUoDKeN9W-l98KGxSuApOrsfW2W7-PAJA1NvFpxjp7kCAl8M8Srzg0F32X4pz42o", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PPxiHtDFx_p0pG-5FantxIbutv_YUoDKeN9W-l98KGxSuApOrsfW2W7-PAJA1NvFpxjp7kCAl8M8Srzg0F32X4pz42o", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMSb4-EIDA", + "preview": "

What is PETG 3D Filament?

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PETG is an abbreviation for Polyethylene Terephthalate (with a glycol modification) which is one of the most common polymers used today. It’s used to make water bottles, food packaging, and countless other common plastic items. As a 3D printing filament, PETG plastic has proven its worth as a durable material that is easy to use. Figuratively speaking, it combines the most useful characteristics of ABS 3D filament (the rigidity and mechanical properties for functional parts) with the ease of printing that PLA filament affords. Kind of a “best of both worlds” scenario. But how easy is it to finish? You can sand, use filler, or use epoxy resins for PLA and ABS, but what can you do to finish PETG?

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", + "reference": "how-to-post-processing-petg-3d-filament", + "title": "How To: Post-Processing PETG 3D Filament", + "url": "/articles/how-to-post-processing-petg-3d-filament" + }, + { + "author": "Mara Hitner", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Aug 21, 2017", + "description": "Find out the necessary components to create an effective space for your maker community.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_ujn2jGVsAbjSFBtHJvQNXqTq7aUT5mgrZO928Jrg8Fy65L3_YIbSDyetkDUYWvZ7mlpcxt8PNq3QjCfFA_qF4PD", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q1mZsv51cBz60H2qMfUSN50krVYEB-D3vY5csfYa8EmzjW5fjdco2s-XdSFeRBlaiBj03vTzI0uJO-R_akq9OfYT", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPjkt6cKDA", + "preview": "

The rise of the “makerspace” (aka FabLab, hackerspace, etc.) means more people of all ages and backgrounds can have access to tips and technology to make anything they can imagine into reality.  This is great for personal projects and “tinkering”, but gets truly powerful and urgent when you also open the opportunity to learn real-world skills for the job market of today and tomorrow.

", + "reference": "how-to-build-a-successful-makerspace", + "title": "How To Build A Successful Makerspace", + "url": "/news/how-to-build-a-successful-makerspace" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Feb 27, 2013", + "description": "Let's dive into the details of 3D printing with PLA filament. We will discuss what PLA plastic is and how to make it work with your printer, how to find the right temperature and what surfaces to print on.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qe0fe5d8YmBkND7B-bj_5L6uvdJbFIGDWFX27aso3l4-uZ8-cN5vh2eFWacZtjxDj1DWbSYA8Olp9OWxwBRvKH2_j8I", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qe0fe5d8YmBkND7B-bj_5L6uvdJbFIGDWFX27aso3l4-uZ8-cN5vh2eFWacZtjxDj1DWbSYA8Olp9OWxwBRvKH2_j8I", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGPDxFgw", + "preview": "

PLA is a wonderful, easy to use, 3D printing material. It is a renewable and biodegradable resource.  It is non-toxic and has a pleasant smell when printing.  PLA filament comes in a wide range of colors and because of its thermal characteristics, is particularly easy to get great prints with.

", + "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-in-pla", + "title": "How To Succeed When Printing In PLA", + "url": "/articles/how-to-succeed-when-printing-in-pla" + }, + { + "author": "Scott Cahoon", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Aug 22, 2017", + "description": "Follow these helpful steps to start successfully printing with this extremely tough, professional grade material. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PB42BjTgkO1RdpaJmcQUui5cy4WoUqNAeVV5uGEcYKjTiwQsp8Jy359iOLD2z5KboXRODOyM4eigaSRpNiGG5pT9UQc", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/68l8HHHXlMcBSQihHsAOKCSgsNjFpaohM5GU0A86h2DDMhjlrQqwDvXzA5xOK_O_zKXA5gzjs3MR6LREmgjGahWwpw", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwLiD764JDA", + "preview": "

Polycarbonate, also denoted as PC, is a strong, durable, and tough material. It's a naturally transparent thermoplastic with high impact resistance and excellent heat resistance. As a 3D printing filament, it's heat resistance is both a benefit and a problematic characteristic, as it is even more prone to warping and splitting than ABS filament. As such, this material needs high temperatures in order to extrude and have proper layer adhesion. Once it's all said and done though, successfully printing Polycarbonate filament can enable you to print some stellar and almost indestructible RC cars, drones, or anything else you can imagine.

", + "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-polycarbonate-filament", + "title": "How to Succeed when Printing with Polycarbonate Filament", + "url": "/articles/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-polycarbonate-filament" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jul 18, 2017", + "description": "With these easy steps, you'll learn how to design & build your own 3D printed bird house.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QhZlBCpLQ6GnBNaYnDu4e3SafG89dq4w9FtN_dg97fpCoLn00OaPx0hqbjer5k3kfmHFDCswahxG-kepFc-Q1AHsPA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ScmYXriVwApp5qF8tVW31C_VkWVEWs7O-xkpebSFrrGwHUHi5NE7gsgErm26KsCpZiyosxD0z_7qrKiolpaIxKo4MMM", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMjmjbkKDA", + "preview": "

It's summer! The birds are out singing, the sun is out, and there isn't a cloud in the sky! It's perfect weather to stay inside and 3D print. We have a really big tree outside the front door to our showroom, but we hardly ever see birds taking a rest on it. What it needs is a birdhouse! It'd be really easy to go out and buy some wood or go to a crafts store and buy a kit, but where's the fun in that? There's no personalization, no pizzazz, just a box with a triangular roof and a hole. Booooring.

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Keep reading to see how to add some flare to your birdhouse by designing one yourself using Tinkercad. If you've never used Tinkercad, no problem! We have an article and a video demonstrating the basics of using Tinkercad. With that said, let's get to it!

To get started, make a quick sketch of the general shape you want your birdhouse to be. It can be as simple as a traditional birdhouse, or as complex as a castle. It all depends on your skillset and personal taste. In my case, I want something geometric, and hexagons are a shape found regularly in nature (and just so happens to be the shape of the MatterHackers logo).

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", + "reference": "how-to-design-and-3d-print-a-custom-birdhouse", + "title": "How To: Design and 3D Print a Custom Birdhouse ", + "url": "/articles/how-to-design-and-3d-print-a-custom-birdhouse" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jul 23, 2017", + "description": "Participate in the Open RC Project and learn how to 3D print and build your own F1 RC car. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z5s9htlZGmHAbY5QwVBXZu7KHlrnXEnpZHiWl3dqp40jsdcKJo8Ir6-POfuJBzyZvyYXLo4HhR_BbgghSFbDQJFj8g", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hX6TmtTaIsfKFE60zCssO39vd3coyDXrAPI0RhWC-b9C9vlKyKn6tg0riZkZjlpE39oyWzvE0tWGiPns56w69ygN", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMi1xaIKDA", + "preview": "

If you're an active member of the 3D printing community, you've probably heard of Daniel Norée. If you haven't heard of him, you may have heard about one of his many Open-Source projects, like the OpenRC F1 Car, the OpenRC drone, the print-in-place adjustable wrench, or everyone's favorite: Benchy. We are going to 3D print and build the F1 car. 

", + "reference": "how-to-3d-print-and-build-an-rc-car", + "title": "How To: 3D Print and Build an F1 RC Car", + "url": "/articles/how-to-3d-print-and-build-an-rc-car" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jul 19, 2017", + "description": "Understand how your favorite pool toys were designed for functionality and 3D print your own.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/P0fGa5Q8FCf9H2-4DS8sZkRIMEXef9yntvYdsA_xwWzD5ziQz2iHifTjwbqk7idMbT05mkkPqOSndwgaW_eOVumbEA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HNFZDBgMW8bZZ0x4M_Y6LvcM17XwTJTM-eSw2I7dXkm1VpWQ-7LsNI8A7YIMVQkTZcZG8GEHz1gAjO977c-OF-UzVg", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMiopa0LDA", + "preview": "

We're about halfway through summer now, which means the weather is at its hottest and spending time at the pool is a great idea. Let's 3D print some pool toys! There's this toy torpedo that many remember playing with as a kid in the pool - you throw it underwater and it rockets across the pool. The toy works because it's neutrally buoyant, which means it has close to or the same density as the surrounding water, so it neither floats nor sinks, and instead moves easily through the water. 

Today, we're going to try and replicate that, with some experimentation and some trial and error to make it work. 

", + "reference": "how-to-3d-print-your-own-torpedo-pool-toy", + "title": "How To: 3D Print Your Own Torpedo Pool Toy", + "url": "/articles/how-to-3d-print-your-own-torpedo-pool-toy" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jun 29, 2017", + "description": "Follow our trial and error process as we take our first attempt at aluminum casting.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Xm61KL0jAeKwVP94cxSBj9x0ZUqx-qQivtLLvazjQ-eAdEZ1-0WnK-5vH_nCQ5WN27p2ogBmR_EEhFxZfl-KDawx5Q", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Xm61KL0jAeKwVP94cxSBj9x0ZUqx-qQivtLLvazjQ-eAdEZ1-0WnK-5vH_nCQ5WN27p2ogBmR_EEhFxZfl-KDawx5Q", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwNCbtbYLDA", + "preview": "

We have many customers ask us about 3D printing in metal and how they can do it. With most printers, the closest you can get to 3D printing metal objects is using a \"-fill\" material; copperfill, bronzefill, steelfill, etc. But these are all composites and only partially metal, with most of the material being PLA plastic. To truly print 100% metal is not an easy endeavor, and requires a $100,000 printer. However, there are other ways to take a 3D model and end with a metal part in the same shape without 3D printing in metal: casting!

", + "reference": "using-3d-printing-for-metal-casting-part-1", + "title": "Using 3D Printing for Metal Casting: Part 1", + "url": "/articles/using-3d-printing-for-metal-casting-part-1" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jul 24, 2016", + "description": "3D printing has been a game changer in the cosplay world. Learn techniques from our resident cosplayer to turn digital models into physical costumes.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cfM0f2hAbVy6dbxUji0NqFgw6JHORrGkRfKSFS-XpnyzI2UQ0uXHOpV99I5kQhFFpohHKBTANZOBBhPLenpsAqxPog", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cfM0f2hAbVy6dbxUji0NqFgw6JHORrGkRfKSFS-XpnyzI2UQ0uXHOpV99I5kQhFFpohHKBTANZOBBhPLenpsAqxPog", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIWX_LkKDA", + "preview": "

In the past, creating an object based on a video game was difficult, time intensive, and generally accomplished by hand. My background in 3D printing comes from cosplay, and the most common question I am asked is \"how do you make your costumes?\"

", + "reference": "how-to-bring-game-characters-to-life", + "title": "How To: Bring Game Characters to Life", + "url": "/articles/how-to-bring-game-characters-to-life" + }, + { + "author": "Scott Cahoon", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Dec 18, 2016", + "description": "Part one of an in-depth look at how to use support material. First up: single extrusion. Learn successful design considerations and how to use support material to create complex prints. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aHTKZMBhOoIbc_PrCTZAWU1duDmKtjQbJfBmk4JXjyk7vdwZqLN6HVTleMLoSTce8bn5P6voUGnq9Y7a9tdweBVwhw", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aHTKZMBhOoIbc_PrCTZAWU1duDmKtjQbJfBmk4JXjyk7vdwZqLN6HVTleMLoSTce8bn5P6voUGnq9Y7a9tdweBVwhw", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPPt5q8KDA", + "preview": "

When designing models for 3D printing, the prudent designer will ensure that negative space is minimized and that the positioning of the model on the printer assists in navigating or mitigating that space.  However, any designer who has been around the block once or twice knows that there will come a time when the use of supports cannot be avoided.  With that in mind, this article will explore some considerations during design to mitigate printing over negative space and to venture more in-depth on the use of supports while printing.

", + "reference": "how-to-use-support-material-part-1", + "title": "How To Use Support Material: Part 1", + "url": "/news/how-to-use-support-material-part-1" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "May 2, 2017", + "description": "Let’s talk about 3D printing flexible filaments. Everyone wants to print with it, but to a novice, it might seem daunting. We will take a look at what makes flexible filaments easier to print than it might seem, and how you can add flexible filament to your 3D printing material toolbox.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7m7L54IKxt904Sqn6-E8cHuW60cUzIWplCOe-nwHrACDewdeu-hKE2yatMBnvYont2CZn429Rx1UxEkixXB86fl3", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7m7L54IKxt904Sqn6-E8cHuW60cUzIWplCOe-nwHrACDewdeu-hKE2yatMBnvYont2CZn429Rx1UxEkixXB86fl3", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgK-b_akKDA", + "preview": "

From TPE to Soft PLA, flexible 3D printing filaments are widely useful materials to have at the ready. By design, these filaments are basically printable rubber, allowing you to create complex elastic designs that would otherwise be impossible. Flexible filaments come in a variety of colors, chemical make-ups, and hardness, giving you the flexibility to apply their various properties.

", + "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-flexible-filament", + "title": "How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament", + "url": "/news/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-flexible-filament" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "May 25, 2016", + "description": "Vapor polishing is the process of smoothing the surface of 3D printed ABS parts. The results give your models the look of professionally made injection molded parts. If you want to achieve this look, read on.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z_6ERV9-x7_bpx8c6A0WnCyo1MuoMTRZQzXfZRRKC5wGlXjeC9m4ugpb3PCafmK8lKbFmaztkAtluOEQRtnZD_ai", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Z_6ERV9-x7_bpx8c6A0WnCyo1MuoMTRZQzXfZRRKC5wGlXjeC9m4ugpb3PCafmK8lKbFmaztkAtluOEQRtnZD_ai", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMnA880JDA", + "preview": "

Acetone is a powerful solvent that quickly dissolves ABS. However, the ABS reconstitutes itself once the acetone has evaporated. This phenomenon is used for welding ABS drain pipes (ABS glue contains acetone). It also allows us to use 'ABS juice' to apply a thin film of ABS to the print bed to help with adhesion.

", + "reference": "how-to-vapor-polishing", + "title": "How To: Vapor Polishing ABS 3D Printer Filament", + "url": "/articles/how-to-vapor-polishing" + }, + { + "author": "Scott Cahoon", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Oct 31, 2015", + "description": "The Band-IT is a rubber band powered dragster with 3D printed components. Print one and take it for a spin. Better yet, print two and race against each other. Endless hours of fun are waiting to be discovered.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/geRaWoythsnXKVhTwY4EUi0vKssKWwv_i3K0eohctnML8eunUqdtYpdw5_09aQtsg6bvpiI8HauwmDRScZ7jRdUC7w", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/geRaWoythsnXKVhTwY4EUi0vKssKWwv_i3K0eohctnML8eunUqdtYpdw5_09aQtsg6bvpiI8HauwmDRScZ7jRdUC7w", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOH3yq8KDA", + "preview": "

The Band-IT component parts may be downloaded and printed at Band-IT Dragster.  Follow these instructions to learn how to assemble your dragster once all the components are printed.

", + "reference": "band-it-dragster-assembly-instructions", + "title": "Band-IT Dragster Assembly Instructions", + "url": "/articles/band-it-dragster-assembly-instructions" + }, + { + "author": "Tyler Anderson", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jan 29, 2016", + "description": "You printed it, now make it spring to life. Dive into these instructions to make your Iron Man helmet as lifelike as possible.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zmQSUQ-gj3vNsCuGFEz2XOmtAIzzKssji-Yc1SQNAoPkF5phtANqYcVspAuLNqgV64Gt0FQBuPnpDfHHsZ9GHLE3b7U", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zmQSUQ-gj3vNsCuGFEz2XOmtAIzzKssji-Yc1SQNAoPkF5phtANqYcVspAuLNqgV64Gt0FQBuPnpDfHHsZ9GHLE3b7U", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJ7j_qYKDA", + "preview": "

Halloween was coming and I needed a costume. I didn't want to go buy something and I didn't want to wear anything lame. With the new WASP printer that just arrived in our showroom, I wanted to utilize its power. Finally, a friend suggested Iron Man. It was perfect, but I had every intention of doing it right. 

", + "reference": "bringing-the-helmet-to-life", + "title": "Bringing the Helmet to Life", + "url": "/articles/bringing-the-helmet-to-life" + }, + { + "author": "Dave Gaylord", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jun 28, 2015", + "description": "This is a quick tutorial for how to create a custom 3D printed stencil using MatterControl.\r\n", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lLmhjvrDbKjOdP8ncHYxBcLoCmho2wYALZMdaLAofb9QL79Z7C5JhMYavH236zIQXg8UVTRur8Ydx3uejLJ2AA4x", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lLmhjvrDbKjOdP8ncHYxBcLoCmho2wYALZMdaLAofb9QL79Z7C5JhMYavH236zIQXg8UVTRur8Ydx3uejLJ2AA4x", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNKh2rQLDA", + "preview": "

Working on a project that might require a customized stencil? Not a problem! With the power of MatterControl, users can imagine, design, and print exactly what they need. Here is how...

", + "reference": "how-to-3d-print-a-custom-stencil", + "title": "How To Create And 3D Print A Custom Stencil", + "url": "/articles/how-to-3d-print-a-custom-stencil" + }, + { + "author": "Matt Moening", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jan 25, 2016", + "description": "This guide will walk through the calibration of your Sailfish Firmware printer using MatterControl. If your 3D printer is lacking the precision you desire, read on. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wcApmJUGN6RmJObzozowO9DfICWcGOhE5zy6MnD5rHpIwG7u6HKSYaRF4qThphLYRnhECw4qKMRXTs3PEgnsiVko", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wcApmJUGN6RmJObzozowO9DfICWcGOhE5zy6MnD5rHpIwG7u6HKSYaRF4qThphLYRnhECw4qKMRXTs3PEgnsiVko", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgO7DkLQKDA", + "preview": "

In this tutorial you will learn to calibrate the machine's extrusion rate as well as position sensitivity in the X, Y, and Z, axis. This tutorial works for Makerbot, Flashforge or any Sailfish Firmware printer. 

", + "reference": "calibrating-your-makerbot-using-mattercontrol", + "title": "Calibrating Your Makerbot using MatterControl", + "url": "/articles/calibrating-your-makerbot-using-mattercontrol" + }, + { + "author": "Kevin Pope", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Oct 11, 2012", + "description": "How to calculate motor steps and update your firmware settings.", + "hero": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/DbLHkn4YRas1vYAj7pfZA5rE0mbouGrcpHCMjkbmwqY2_jnz71nhy2yvAlui7NjNkQpuc_QPmSBQudUnrj3jeH4k", + "icon": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/DbLHkn4YRas1vYAj7pfZA5rE0mbouGrcpHCMjkbmwqY2_jnz71nhy2yvAlui7NjNkQpuc_QPmSBQudUnrj3jeH4k", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGO74BAw", + "preview": "

We recently posted some of our custom stepper motors for sale.  They are 0.9 degree NEMA 17s and we've been fantastically pleased when using them for our own projects, but we have had several people ask - \"How do I make these work with my printer?\".  The reason is this - despite having higher step accuracy, 0.9 degree steppers are somewhat less ubiquitous than 1.8 degree steppers, so the default settings for most firmware assumes you are using 1.8 degree steppers.

", + "reference": "3d-printer-firmware-settings-stepper-motor-configuration", + "title": "3D Printer Firmware Settings - Stepper Motor Configuration", + "url": "/news/3d-printer-firmware-settings-stepper-motor-configuration" + }, + { + "author": "Tyler Anderson", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jul 27, 2015", + "description": "This guide walks through the process of succeeding when using Hydrographics. Hydrographics is a way of applying complicated graphics and intricate patterns to 3 dimensional objects. The dissolvable film is floated on the surface of a tub of water, and the object is literally dipped into it.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hufbrmzN7n_eHvqCDQdFzY3B8-mjPy-Ys6A62J7--RHmhh9eT3LzrOnR9WZcKDFnu6zNmPhF0ya8fwGNqiOYkac7hA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hufbrmzN7n_eHvqCDQdFzY3B8-mjPy-Ys6A62J7--RHmhh9eT3LzrOnR9WZcKDFnu6zNmPhF0ya8fwGNqiOYkac7hA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPKlibcKDA", + "preview": "

Hydrographics is a process where you overlay a sheet of printed graphics onto an object. The hydrographic film is floated on the surface of a tub of water. It dissolves into a layer of paint floating on top the water. When you dip an object into it, the paint conforms and sticks to the surface.

", + "reference": "coating-your-prints-with-hydrographics", + "title": "How to: Coat Your Prints with Hydrographics", + "url": "/articles/coating-your-prints-with-hydrographics" + }, + { + "author": "Kevin Pope", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Feb 3, 2014", + "description": "MatterHackers CEO Lars Brubaker lays down some knowledge at the 2014 3D Printer World Expo.", + "hero": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/Q-901LHdNrQUfGl9Z6yP1J3xzcG7VFi3pPtD0GU6stpkYZTrwMU6X9DsXiIKTSsXiOZ20d90BpJwc9MKXfiH2uHvFJk", + "icon": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/Q-901LHdNrQUfGl9Z6yP1J3xzcG7VFi3pPtD0GU6stpkYZTrwMU6X9DsXiIKTSsXiOZ20d90BpJwc9MKXfiH2uHvFJk", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOCKw6QJDA", + "preview": "

Lars Brubaker, our Chief MatterHacker, spoke recently at the 2014 3D Printer World Expo, covering a range of 3D printing topics - from materials to troubleshooting.  In case you missed it, you can still check out the slides that accompanied those presentations below.

", + "reference": "3d-printer-world-expo-2014-presentations", + "title": "Lars Brubaker presents at the 2014 3D Printer World Expo", + "url": "/news/3d-printer-world-expo-2014-presentations" + }, + { + "author": "Dave Gaylord", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Mar 24, 2015", + "description": "The old adage “work smart, not hard” is applicable here. There is no reason to get out any fancy CAD software if you are in the mood to 3D Print standard hardware. The McMaster Carr online catalog has an abundance of CAD designs available and ready for printing. \r\n", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Phtkh2fB5fZXKQPbiMtTnTFba6AETFSQJaXJcaolqoxOgiaN5PYskXmeuSSBzRCqRHNAFM5cwPxtmvZHo44LsnxfEew", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Phtkh2fB5fZXKQPbiMtTnTFba6AETFSQJaXJcaolqoxOgiaN5PYskXmeuSSBzRCqRHNAFM5cwPxtmvZHo44LsnxfEew", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPTAwaYJDA", + "preview": "

If you have the desire to print standard hardware, but lack the motivation to reverse engineer the parts yourself, I have some good news for you.

\n

The McMaster Carr online catalog is well organized, has an overwhelming selection, and as it turns out, is a fantastic resource for standard hardware CAD Designs. A good portion of the standard hardware have downloadable CAD files within the product detail page.

", + "reference": "3d-print-hardware-from-mcmaster-carr", + "title": "How To 3D Print Hardware from McMaster-Carr", + "url": "/articles/3d-print-hardware-from-mcmaster-carr" + }, + { + "author": "Kevin Pope", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Oct 18, 2012", + "description": "Much has been made of the new wood-based 3D printing filament, so we thought we'd try it out by printing a toy plane.", + "hero": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/9xuv3MKRgXtoBj1JLtSO8vZSnSkvAMiOK0MM8SH1459YyOCXncfqkd23FL3UhbxpYjUHGqROEK7DwiLU8PANBHK39w", + "icon": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/9xuv3MKRgXtoBj1JLtSO8vZSnSkvAMiOK0MM8SH1459YyOCXncfqkd23FL3UhbxpYjUHGqROEK7DwiLU8PANBHK39w", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGJnjBgw", + "preview": "

Our requested samples of wood-based filament (LAYWOO-D3) came in the mail today, which begged the immediate question - \"What should we print with it?\". After much deliberation we ultimately decided to print a Stratos Glider as an homage to the balsa-wood toy planes of our childhood. Realizing that, since we were doing this all \"for science\", we really ought to have a baseline for comparison, we decided to print our first glider out of PLA filament. 

", + "reference": "3d-printing-a-wooden-glider", + "title": "3D Printing A Wooden Glider", + "url": "/news/3d-printing-a-wooden-glider" + }, + { + "author": "Taylor Landry", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Sep 1, 2016", + "description": "NylonX has quickly become one of our favorite filaments for strong, durable, and ready-to-use parts. Here's an in-depth look at Nylon X, and some printing tips to get the most out of this great new material.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pRjQwQngNN1L4lUZFubKVtXeDf_RMLt8m5YNvvhPvg4Y_3_vl7gxJbA5q40O7GcF0Rsao_GvYKYf1ZebiJ9v-ShFnA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pRjQwQngNN1L4lUZFubKVtXeDf_RMLt8m5YNvvhPvg4Y_3_vl7gxJbA5q40O7GcF0Rsao_GvYKYf1ZebiJ9v-ShFnA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgLXA468JDA", + "preview": "

Nylons are a fantastic group of 3D printing materials. Excellent chemical, abrasion, and impact resistance coupled with its durability and toughness make it a perfect choice for strong, functional 3D printed parts.

\n

The main “cons” of nylon filaments are the lack of rigidity, relatively high shrink rate, and the fact that it is highly hygroscopic (absorbs water from the air).

", + "reference": "a-closer-look-at-nylon-x", + "title": "How to Succeed with NylonX", + "url": "/news/a-closer-look-at-nylon-x" + }, + { + "author": "Lars Brubaker", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Sep 17, 2013", + "description": "The latest release of MatterControl (version 0.9.0) adds software-based, automatic print-leveling and height calibration as an optional new feature.", + "hero": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/58TL18JFxVtRpGqvwfSozVecdHdbYdg5uXJ4pwE_K79C_WSboSjr1xttC-2j7j8MwNrDnbOp8JXrKcq3HNP7TZnqEL0", + "icon": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/58TL18JFxVtRpGqvwfSozVecdHdbYdg5uXJ4pwE_K79C_WSboSjr1xttC-2j7j8MwNrDnbOp8JXrKcq3HNP7TZnqEL0", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgICkqdcIDA", + "preview": "

Hey everyone, we have some great news to share with you! MatterControl now includes a way to automatically calibrate your printer. This is a huge improvement over our previous foray into automatic printer calibration. In our previous system, we required modifications to your printer, uploading new firmware and a significant amount of DIY. Now, thanks to MatterControl's new wizard, all you have to do is follow the on-screen instructions and you can get your printer calibrated and leveled in no time.

", + "reference": "automatic-print-leveling-in-mattercontrol", + "title": "Automatic Print Leveling in MatterControl", + "url": "/news/automatic-print-leveling-in-mattercontrol" + }, + { + "author": "Taylor Landry", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Dec 16, 2015", + "description": "Interested in using MatterControl's 7 and 13 point print leveling? Although, this system is easy to use, there might be some hardware or firmware settings you'll need to fix first. Here's how!", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/R45DRXq2t8nsETFYMvAh8vHw1fHkn9vBarWDEC1laBPo8C9AiZh8gTefABhKxu8ke4ESW6h6ltWNDehEkXBz2vziJA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/R45DRXq2t8nsETFYMvAh8vHw1fHkn9vBarWDEC1laBPo8C9AiZh8gTefABhKxu8ke4ESW6h6ltWNDehEkXBz2vziJA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPbomqIKDA", + "preview": "

MatterControl recently introduced 7 and 13 point software print leveling. These are great options for delta 3D printers, as well as Cartesian printers with large print beds.

", + "reference": "troubleshooting-for-mattercontrol-print-leveling", + "title": "Troubleshooting for MatterControl Print Leveling", + "url": "/articles/troubleshooting-for-mattercontrol-print-leveling" + }, + { + "author": "Matt Moening", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jan 24, 2016", + "description": "Finally take the leap away from your stock Makerbot extruder and indulge in the precision printing that only an E3D All-Metal HotEnd can provide. Check out our step by step guide to get your Makerbot up and running with an E3D HotEnd.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LNtlQYbCZX0WynvegI7aFu2pZbBD5_uEKDy62N_4ExGpHbS8GXbT2gbzf2sL3MkOB9xaAsPtiH8r4pjzgIfrVogRkw", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LNtlQYbCZX0WynvegI7aFu2pZbBD5_uEKDy62N_4ExGpHbS8GXbT2gbzf2sL3MkOB9xaAsPtiH8r4pjzgIfrVogRkw", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJ7S6LgKDA", + "preview": "

At MatterHackers we are constantly tinkering with our machines. In the back of the office we discovered a discarded Makerbot Replicator 2 just itching for a face lift. Since we have gotten quite a few requests to make this upgrade available for you makers, we thought we'd give it a shot. As it turns out, with just a few tools it is an easy modification, and (more importantly) the results are fantastic.

", + "reference": "hack-your-makerbot-with-an-e3d-all-metal-hotend", + "title": "Hack Your MakerBot with an E3D All-Metal Hot End", + "url": "/articles/hack-your-makerbot-with-an-e3d-all-metal-hotend" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Sep 27, 2012", + "description": "MatterHackers adds automatic height calibration and bed leveling.", + "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/OZtJIxOmy67GE-CR2p0vNJgLta5qa_HYAOrknv5l1Xht2tHN8JgjF1Kvk5LGTY2M0B3JsMheD9FCRxxHET0z1TPc", + "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/OZtJIxOmy67GE-CR2p0vNJgLta5qa_HYAOrknv5l1Xht2tHN8JgjF1Kvk5LGTY2M0B3JsMheD9FCRxxHET0z1TPc", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyEwsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGKfvAgw", + "preview": "

Update: Be sure to check out our new article MatterControl - Automatic Print Leveling. This new solution is all software, you will not need to change any hardware or firmware. It will work today.

\n

Hey everyone, here is the promised update to our first post about our work on automatic bed height calibration and leveling.  In that post we showed a working implementation of custom firmware gathering data on the level of the print bed and then automatically compensating its movements. Since then we've been working to put the final pieces in place in order to have a full solution that can be used in day-to-day 3D printing. Now, with two printable parts (a z-probe and a modified x-carriage), some magnets, and a switch, it is possible to add automatic bed height calibration and leveling to a Mendel90.

", + "reference": "automatic-printer-calibration-update", + "title": "Automatic Printer Calibration: Update", + "url": "/news/automatic-printer-calibration-update" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "May 21, 2014", + "description": "Presets are an incredibly powerful tool for getting exactly what want out of your 3D print. With a little bit of knowledge under your belt, you'll be printing more efficiently than ever before. \r\n---------------\r\nUpdated 6/12/15\r\n\r\n", + "hero": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/8F6Yt9h1vnOaASJB2k_cztq0Cv_6Cet3zFa_cmFljOeI28qzhnvyOwx6EXWvLcr1gbNUckF3tcRfganit2kff2w-fw", + "icon": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/8F6Yt9h1vnOaASJB2k_cztq0Cv_6Cet3zFa_cmFljOeI28qzhnvyOwx6EXWvLcr1gbNUckF3tcRfganit2kff2w-fw", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNCy8NAIDA", + "preview": "

Hey there, stranger! I hear that you’ve been using MatterControl lately. I also hear that you're ready to start creating and customizing your own presets! Don't know where to start? Not to worry my fine friend, guides like this exist for a reason. So settle down into your favorite pair of pants, it's time to learn about presets.

", + "reference": "how-to-customize-your-presets-in-mattercontrol", + "title": "How to Customize Your Presets in MatterControl", + "url": "/articles/how-to-customize-your-presets-in-mattercontrol" + }, + { + "author": "Greg Diaz", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jun 30, 2015", + "description": "Are you building your own printer? Do you need to create a customized printer profile? MatterControl can easily help you out with just a few quick steps - check out our new guide!", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CvLTUQpu15PFZms0Y4266ZvCkg-JOpeOdVAK_rLyzdpZlFdZ-8GU8l4tGVKuk4-wftXz7YXBO-ac4wf1RymCG1Z-5eg", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CvLTUQpu15PFZms0Y4266ZvCkg-JOpeOdVAK_rLyzdpZlFdZ-8GU8l4tGVKuk4-wftXz7YXBO-ac4wf1RymCG1Z-5eg", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJKV6qQKDA", + "preview": "

IMPORTANT EDIT 7/28/17: This method of adding custom profiles to MatterControl was deprecated with the release of cloud-based profiles. 

\n\n

If you want to add a custom profile to MatterControl, generate the .printer file as outlined in this article, then email it to support@mattercontrol.com and we will upload it so it is available for you and all MatterControl users.

\n

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

\n\n
", + "reference": "how-to-integrate-a-custom-printer-profile-into-mattercontrol", + "title": "How To Integrate A Custom Printer Profile Into MatterControl", + "url": "/articles/how-to-integrate-a-custom-printer-profile-into-mattercontrol" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jan 14, 2016", + "description": "Want to print in multi-color but only have one extruder? Fear not! With just a simple trick using MatterControl, you can print with all the colors of the rainbow.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Aj61YVIJbGm3Jg5ZeaHCvB_is7cTqOi04CLa-PyjgofCztldkQc--OGeWuvi9667Aen0Z16Nhw4AdpLGcFXn24lczaw", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Aj61YVIJbGm3Jg5ZeaHCvB_is7cTqOi04CLa-PyjgofCztldkQc--OGeWuvi9667Aen0Z16Nhw4AdpLGcFXn24lczaw", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgK6luq4KDA", + "preview": "

When I first started working at MatterHackers all of my friends were so intrigued by the concept of 3D printing, I would often get the question, \"What does something 3D printed look like?\". So I decided to make myself a key chain I could put on my car keys; something I could easily grab out of my bag when people asked me. The trouble was, I am a very colorful person. I did not want my key chain to be just a single color, I wanted it to be five colors. But, I was only a novice, and the printer I was using only had one extruder. 

", + "reference": "how-to-print-in-multi-color-with-a-single-extruder", + "title": "How to Print in Multi-Color with a Single Extruder", + "url": "/articles/how-to-print-in-multi-color-with-a-single-extruder" + }, + { + "author": "Chris Moore", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Mar 2, 2015", + "description": "With the release of MatterControl 1.2.1, users are able to employ cloud features, which makes sending files wirelessly a breeze. Learn how with this step by step guide.\r\n", + "hero": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/3ROOgpIkjBUawWXaMoWdWHOVidAreQ-2FDrX9imBcagONUlIRPaWwU649FrytOFVoxX4-NcZ91WMLz_Cte1VYUis", + "icon": "https://lh4.ggpht.com/3ROOgpIkjBUawWXaMoWdWHOVidAreQ-2FDrX9imBcagONUlIRPaWwU649FrytOFVoxX4-NcZ91WMLz_Cte1VYUis", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIzi8akKDA", + "preview": "

Version 1.2.1 of MatterControl allows users to send files from their MatterControl Desktop to the new MatterControl Touch, as well as to other MatterControl Desktops. With just a few clicks, you will soon be able to utilize MatterControl on multiple sources.

", + "reference": "how-to-sync-files-from-your-mattercontrol-desktop-to-mattercontrol-touch", + "title": "How to Sync Files from your MatterControl Desktop to MatterControl Touch", + "url": "/articles/how-to-sync-files-from-your-mattercontrol-desktop-to-mattercontrol-touch" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Oct 6, 2016", + "description": "From general purpose print beds to tips and tricks with acetone, finding the right bed surface to print on is an important step in the 3D printing process. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N7TPp4G58K2dlyFuWUhbk8Q3bgRjR9KjGvLjXYtrayCUAc1ZaS3MDrHbpAwj9Cju0dvYjfCo9UVkIXPk8uVIox819g", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N7TPp4G58K2dlyFuWUhbk8Q3bgRjR9KjGvLjXYtrayCUAc1ZaS3MDrHbpAwj9Cju0dvYjfCo9UVkIXPk8uVIox819g", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJ29v6oKDA", + "preview": "

The key to a successful 3D print is a good first layer, and the key to a successful first layer is choosing the right print bed surface for the material you are 3D printing. In this guide, we will go through the most popular 3D materials to print with and describe the best techniques for getting them to stick to the bed and achieving a stellar first layer.

", + "reference": "choosing-the-right-3d-print-bed-surface", + "title": "Choosing the Best 3D Printing Bed Surface", + "url": "/news/choosing-the-right-3d-print-bed-surface" + }, + { + "author": "Griffin Kahnke", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Feb 12, 2014", + "description": "If you’ve downloaded the most recent release of MatterControl, you may have noticed one of our new features: The Text Creator! In this article, we’re gonna break down the functions and features of our newest creation program. \n", + "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/RUHAw17EIOE6R3oL4MrLkyYXJvU3pgr8DpezfXURFkUYqcSShkR_5zlY6EiP_Az_rYXbJMGPdbdeKvFzhOp6YaMHAA", + "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/RUHAw17EIOE6R3oL4MrLkyYXJvU3pgr8DpezfXURFkUYqcSShkR_5zlY6EiP_Az_rYXbJMGPdbdeKvFzhOp6YaMHAA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgODR57kKDA", + "preview": "

We do our best to listen to the community, and we're always working hard to improve the software that helps control the hobby we all know and love. One of the most recent features, is our new Text Creator. Designing parts can be difficult for the average person, and sometimes it's nice just to be able to write something and have it printed, instead of waiting for someone to design the particular thing you want. Let's get started, shall we?

", + "reference": "how-to-use-the-text-creator", + "title": "MatterControl - How to use the Text Creator", + "url": "/articles/how-to-use-the-text-creator" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Feb 1, 2016", + "description": "Matt Manhattan, our February Hacker of the Month, took a stab at merging an everyday object with 3D printed parts to create a new, customized item. With great success, he's done it! Everyone has one, but do you have your very own, personalized night light? ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgN7G-aYKDA", + "preview": "

It began how all of us often get into 3D printing - a little curiosity. Two years ago, Matt Manhattan decided to follow through with that curiosity and jumped into 3D printing. Excited, Manhattan researched for a year and finally bought a machine - Ultimaker 2.

", + "reference": "create-your-own-custom-night-light", + "title": "Create Your Own Custom Night Light", + "url": "/news/create-your-own-custom-night-light" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "May 9, 2014", + "description": "With the new image converter add-on for MatterControl, turning 2D images into 3D printed objects has never been easier.", + "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/R0TTp--jw-W5mJ8GjEHIfLnUU6yEMvl3RSQEgkYv8Zsj_wXLtTjjjbYNDeGBuC5ZZC7LUPCOSpuRO1PFh5FTsDE9JZw", + "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/R0TTp--jw-W5mJ8GjEHIfLnUU6yEMvl3RSQEgkYv8Zsj_wXLtTjjjbYNDeGBuC5ZZC7LUPCOSpuRO1PFh5FTsDE9JZw", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNCPg68LDA", + "preview": "

The latest update of MatterControl includes a powerful new add-on tool - the Image Converter.  Using the Image Converter anyone can create 3D printable objects by simply dropping in an existing image (no prior 3d printing knowledge required). In this article we dive into this tool and some of its potential applications.

", + "reference": "hands-on-with-the-mattercontrol-image-converter", + "title": "Hands-on: The MatterControl Image Converter", + "url": "/news/hands-on-with-the-mattercontrol-image-converter" + }, + { + "author": "Roy Smith - Guest Contributor", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Sep 9, 2013", + "description": "Roy (aka \"The SmithBot\") presents us with a hands-on guide to turning your neighborhood, city, state, or favorite National Park into a 3D printable topographic map.", + "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/tKfKJoE2mKJLD0nYyw7ADzboCyoUC2iUHLjqfGvTKjv4NdgPZMWQUPDhHoL-0ujAFeFgXIEl-pRgz6fGdba_mBP0QQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/tKfKJoE2mKJLD0nYyw7ADzboCyoUC2iUHLjqfGvTKjv4NdgPZMWQUPDhHoL-0ujAFeFgXIEl-pRgz6fGdba_mBP0QQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgICEgKsKDA", + "preview": "

A few months ago my friend Barney said, “Can you 3D print Thousand Palms Canyon?”  

\n

I knew what he meant: all the hills and gulleys and landscape features we’re familiar with. “No,” I said. “That’s impossible.” But the idea kept bugging me. Why not? So I did what any of you would do in the middle of a sleepless night: I went online. Huh! Not impossible, but maybe a little bit tricky. Below are the step-by-step instructions to create a 3D topographic map.

", + "reference": "how-to-3d-print-a-map-of-anywhere-in-the-world", + "title": "How to 3D Print a Map of Anywhere in the World", + "url": "/news/how-to-3d-print-a-map-of-anywhere-in-the-world" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Aug 25, 2016", + "description": "Making your 3D prints look fresh off the assembly line isn't as hard as you think. Follow these simple techniques to finish your 3D prints and make them shine.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u7rq8xkIt1jJF82q94v6ZZkPP8egmHwjDggpxqmvwUKOVHowTVXoKELgSZCKxTOz0NXeAhJ6biN8yyUrhzDufEZt9w", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/u7rq8xkIt1jJF82q94v6ZZkPP8egmHwjDggpxqmvwUKOVHowTVXoKELgSZCKxTOz0NXeAhJ6biN8yyUrhzDufEZt9w", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNXukqEJDA", + "preview": "

PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is one of the two most commonly used desktop 3D printing materials (with the other being ABS filament). It is the ‘default’ recommended material for many desktop 3D printers, and with good reason - PLA is useful in a broad range of printing applications and can be produced in a variety of colors. It has the virtue of being both an odorless and low-warp material, and does not require a heated bed. PLA plastic is also one of the more eco-friendly 3D printer materials available; it is made from renewable resources (corn-starch) and requires less energy to process compared to traditional (petroleum-based) plastics. Cool, but what do you do to finish a PLA print to make it truly good?

", + "reference": "how-to-smooth-and-finish-your-pla-prints", + "title": "How To: Smooth and Finish Your PLA Prints - Part 1", + "url": "/news/how-to-smooth-and-finish-your-pla-prints" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Nov 28, 2016", + "description": "3D printing is a wonderful process, but for convention and show ready prints, some post-processing may be necessary. Learn some helpful techniques from our resident cosplayer to turn even the most polygonal model into a smooth masterpiece.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7oWjJRKWiCLhwJT0d_OWo8cTTGQIrszeOqW4CevXyHJOJkxH2WAA5sLz9Z17I6KHNMm1Y8F-7lVMAfWxzXr6M5I-vw", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7oWjJRKWiCLhwJT0d_OWo8cTTGQIrszeOqW4CevXyHJOJkxH2WAA5sLz9Z17I6KHNMm1Y8F-7lVMAfWxzXr6M5I-vw", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJPM-LwKDA", + "preview": "

If you’ve been following along in this series of articles (How to Bring Video Game Characters to Life and How To Smooth & Finish Your PLA Prints - Part 1), you have seen some techniques to smooth out and remove the striations you get from a 3D printing. But what if your original model is significantly more polygonal and faceted than the intended shape? If you have a print that looks like this Soldier 76 mask, there are two different ways to solve this problem: using Bondo body filler after printing, or before printing by modifying the model with a modeling software of your choice. In this article, we will be exploring the former.

", + "reference": "how-to:-smooth-and-finish-you-pla-prints-part-2", + "title": "How To: Smooth and Finish Your PLA Prints - Part 2", + "url": "/articles/how-to:-smooth-and-finish-you-pla-prints-part-2" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jan 10, 2016", + "description": "Hands down, motor dampers are one of the best upgrades available for your 3D printer. Not only are they a quick and easy install, but they result in a quieter, more precise print.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ps1b8w0Ga54dktJlVQGGSPOPy0tgB0oQxJeXZSArNcR0pSayDQ1d2zfPYQDz4YJSpEZFmP33EtlS_tluK5bNxYGn0g", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ps1b8w0Ga54dktJlVQGGSPOPy0tgB0oQxJeXZSArNcR0pSayDQ1d2zfPYQDz4YJSpEZFmP33EtlS_tluK5bNxYGn0g", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgM65v7AKDA", + "preview": "

3D printers can be loud. While an unpleasant sounding 3D printer is merely an annoyance to the operator (and others sharing the room), the vibration of the printer may cause deeper problems with your print and ultimately lead to unexpected results in the final product.

", + "reference": "motor-dampers-install-guide", + "title": "Motor Dampers Install Guide", + "url": "/articles/motor-dampers-install-guide" + }, + { + "author": "Tyler Anderson", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Sep 1, 2015", + "description": "Fan of the game Kerbal Space Program? Ever want to bring your customized space rockets to life? Well look no further! This helpful guide will put those little rockets right in the palm of your hand. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nw1gPJn14IvU0pzLQvZKxyr0Q7fxIEMe9iZei0yzNlyPWZ7a4uheH2f7RdSX5R0A9l4XE22DatL4Ns_DjQI7ugFLTg", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nw1gPJn14IvU0pzLQvZKxyr0Q7fxIEMe9iZei0yzNlyPWZ7a4uheH2f7RdSX5R0A9l4XE22DatL4Ns_DjQI7ugFLTg", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOr9wKsKDA", + "preview": "

This is a guide to show you how to print your ships from Kerbal Space Program, the game where you launch overenthusiastic little green men into space on rockets of your own design. We'll be using Dasoccerguy's excellent KSPBlender add on to import the .craft file into Blender, where we will clean it up and generate a .stl for printing. This guide was written with MatterControl in mind, but it is applicable to any 3D printing software.

", + "reference": "print-your-ships-from-kerbal-space-program", + "title": "How to Print Your Ships from Kerbal Space Program", + "url": "/articles/print-your-ships-from-kerbal-space-program" + }, + { + "author": "Taylor Landry", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Mar 3, 2015", + "description": "This quick and informative guide will help you calibrate your extruder perfectly, resulting in accurate, quality prints.", + "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/AMEmKDO6MwBSXvRXXibNqX2ZTQsAVqsP3PKAYdjjyphqlGDwuHY06YG6WDrUkcAnBAwzyi9E_UNytjLqnpBYaUBFkg", + "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/AMEmKDO6MwBSXvRXXibNqX2ZTQsAVqsP3PKAYdjjyphqlGDwuHY06YG6WDrUkcAnBAwzyi9E_UNytjLqnpBYaUBFkg", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPTV9qkKDA", + "preview": "

Your 3D printer extrudes and retracts precise amounts of filaments in order to create your printed masterpieces. Well, it does if it’s properly calibrated. Calibrating your extruder is one of the most important, as well as one of the most overlooked, things you can do to your machine.

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If you’ve been unhappy with your printing results or have noticed either under or over-extrusion, this calibration will help resolve some or all of these issues.

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Before we begin, let’s identify the components on your printer that we’ll be covering, as well as the 2 different types of extruder setups.

", + "reference": "how-to-calibrate-your-extruder", + "title": "How To Calibrate Your Extruder", + "url": "/articles/how-to-calibrate-your-extruder" + }, + { + "author": "Dave Gaylord", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Feb 13, 2014", + "description": "At some point you may encounter a filament jam or a clogged nozzle where your 3D printer is not extruding. This guide is intended to help you prevent such jams, or fix with them as painlessly as possible.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/quadaj52jx43l6nWRBaMJTDDp5jfXf8SC2v9QYqMZee19jcm6mZD2TR9F_idPYI3hFPQjukt3nLH9wPd1CTYv5as", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/quadaj52jx43l6nWRBaMJTDDp5jfXf8SC2v9QYqMZee19jcm6mZD2TR9F_idPYI3hFPQjukt3nLH9wPd1CTYv5as", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgICSyeUIDA", + "preview": "

If you arrived at this article, I have to assume you’re either a seeker of knowledge, or an unfortunate soul with a 3D printer that is not extruding. In either case, we are here to enlighten you with some techniques for making your 3D printer run like a dream.

", + "reference": "how-to-clear-and-prevent-jams", + "title": "How To Clear and Prevent Jams on Your 3D Printer", + "url": "/articles/how-to-clear-and-prevent-jams" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Dec 11, 2016", + "description": "This guide will show you how a few simple mixtures of ABS and acetone will be a helpful new staple in your 3D printing toolbox.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z9X2aaebD7eyLeJJBX-xty_eO7iGagsTnxqauIsw7GXIgT9lpIEg2VvEFH7teTaRe5of8v34CkXpdPCSAkyl2G2PcA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z9X2aaebD7eyLeJJBX-xty_eO7iGagsTnxqauIsw7GXIgT9lpIEg2VvEFH7teTaRe5of8v34CkXpdPCSAkyl2G2PcA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgLOouqQKDA", + "preview": "

When someone is new to 3D printing, it is highly recommended to start with PLA filament, and having mastered that, to begin experimenting with different and more advanced materials. While PLA and ABS filament are the two most popular filaments, they have drastically different properties from each other.

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PLA is such a great beginner material because it doesn't warp, doesn't need high temperatures, and it doesn't give off fumes as you print. ABS has the opposite properties on all accounts, however, what it holds over PLA is its temperature resistance; leave a PLA print and an ABS print in your car on a hot day and you will find the PLA has warped but the ABS hasn't. Additionally, ABS has more finishing techniques available from its chemical makeup: it sands easier than PLA and you can use acetone to melt away the layer lines.

", + "reference": "how-to-make-abs-juice-glue-and-slurry", + "title": "How To Make ABS Juice, Glue, and Slurry", + "url": "/news/how-to-make-abs-juice-glue-and-slurry" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Oct 20, 2016", + "description": "Durable and easy to print, PETG filament is likely to take over as the most commonly-used filament. This in-depth guide provides a few tips and tricks on how to get started and embrace the fantastic properties of this material. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/45TmCajv4Znajv9kxnWpJWH5Dd_2kxfkSa7_iYIbWMI1jLYqYsJ5ItxMc96mFpyiC3GbUqyF-yjtugAksAC5CYSP", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/45TmCajv4Znajv9kxnWpJWH5Dd_2kxfkSa7_iYIbWMI1jLYqYsJ5ItxMc96mFpyiC3GbUqyF-yjtugAksAC5CYSP", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgP3YibMJDA", + "preview": "

PETG is an abbreviation for Polyethylene Terephthalate (with a glycol modification) which is one of the most common polymers used today. It’s used to make water bottles, food packaging, and countless other common plastic items. As a 3D printing filament, PETG plastic has proven its worth as a durable material that is easy to use. Figuratively speaking, it combines the most useful characteristics of ABS filament (the rigidity and mechanical properties for functional parts) with the ease of printing that PLA filament affords. Kind of a “best of both worlds” scenario.

", + "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-petg-filament", + "title": "How to Succeed when Printing with PETG Filament", + "url": "/news/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-petg-filament" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Apr 21, 2014", + "description": "Last year, we published an article talking about how to succeed while printing with PLA. While we still love printing with PLA, we neglected to write about the sister filament - ABS. Prepare your printer and get a notepad - the time has come.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9LmjgoUx1qtaW13sBF7e9RzIBZInMcOuNdjZPiI9X0Oh5ALXyRIe75_0OJVM-NktgxFu7korKmt5wDwt0cHl6cN4", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9LmjgoUx1qtaW13sBF7e9RzIBZInMcOuNdjZPiI9X0Oh5ALXyRIe75_0OJVM-NktgxFu7korKmt5wDwt0cHl6cN4", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNCIw6AJDA", + "preview": "

ABS is one of the most commonly used, and most versatile materials available in 3D printing today. If you're new to the scene though, it can be a bit daunting to start with. However, the payoff is worth it. Learning to print well with ABS is essential if you want strong, heat resistant parts.

", + "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-abs", + "title": "How To Succeed When Printing With ABS", + "url": "/articles/how-to-succeed-when-printing-with-abs" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Apr 5, 2017", + "description": "Clogged nozzles - they happen. This informative guide will help you get your 3D printer back up and running. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7AmIp_gA6cAPiSzZupJi2clJ-oRAHKZYTgRDtE20r06-1DaTZv6N379jESvC5Zl_WHuVkO75mN1eSoDHjiMOmiQfSQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7AmIp_gA6cAPiSzZupJi2clJ-oRAHKZYTgRDtE20r06-1DaTZv6N379jESvC5Zl_WHuVkO75mN1eSoDHjiMOmiQfSQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPf_srwKDA", + "preview": "

Every so often, you might find your prints are looking stringy, sparse, and with missing layers. If you check through our 3D printer troubleshooting guide, you'd figure out your nozzle is more than likely clogged. No worries - this guide will help you solve the issue and get you printing again in no time. 

", + "reference": "how-to-unclog-a-3d-printer-nozzle", + "title": "How To Unclog a 3D Printer Nozzle", + "url": "/news/how-to-unclog-a-3d-printer-nozzle" + }, + { + "author": "Alec Richter", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Feb 9, 2017", + "description": "Learn about different dissolvable materials and how they can enhance your dual extrusion prints in the second part of our in-depth look at support material and how to print with PVA.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bj_6HhmP14X9SX9rDRl10t_khZIJPTfgJh1BnWzUrQE7buJz3BFd1uVvzO9DbbnFVDmWucIKKG3niRzaGAIVONC", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bj_6HhmP14X9SX9rDRl10t_khZIJPTfgJh1BnWzUrQE7buJz3BFd1uVvzO9DbbnFVDmWucIKKG3niRzaGAIVONC", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNvD3r8JDA", + "preview": "

Our previous article, How To Use Support Material: Part 1, delved into the specifics of how single extrusion support works and some design considerations that you might have to take into account when modeling an object. With dual-extrusion support printing, all that goes out the window.

", + "reference": "how-to-use-support-material:-part-2", + "title": "How To Use Support Material: Part 2", + "url": "/news/how-to-use-support-material:-part-2" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "May 29, 2017", + "description": "Learn the fundamental steps to successfully print this dissolvable support material and why it's necessary for complex dual-extruded parts. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HQp59APgPP1hiBkaBEDsp73zFe0futNMYg2OfJm3PvB9JElpI3Z-9X80oqYaj0rtxTQeeu5wJAyYt6J3lfhbqAvg8Q", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HQp59APgPP1hiBkaBEDsp73zFe0futNMYg2OfJm3PvB9JElpI3Z-9X80oqYaj0rtxTQeeu5wJAyYt6J3lfhbqAvg8Q", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgP_JpLsKDA", + "preview": "

PVA filament is a critical material for creating complex parts on a dual extrusion 3D printer. If you aren't using this material yet, you need to be. These tips and tricks for printing with PVA will guide you to success. 

", + "reference": "how-to-succeed-when-3d-printing-with-pva-support-material", + "title": "How To Succeed When 3D Printing With PVA Support Material", + "url": "/news/how-to-succeed-when-3d-printing-with-pva-support-material" + } + ], + "group_link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/topic/how-to", + "group_subtitle": "Step by step to success", + "group_title": "How To Guides", + "icon_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fuFgkmUJcUbsdeIOcLc2dAWeyKHhuDQ00Zlvs8w-36Tm3NqfPEpSXFqvYuaiHXFgfGS7oDRcAPfqIxHFLAK238bmeg=s60" + }, + { + "content_type": "article_group", + "group_items": [ + { + "author": "Chris Morgan", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Apr 2, 2018", + "description": "May 2018 Hacker of the Month, Jacob Stanton, talks about his Create to Educate Lesson Plan, and his professional work in 3D design and prototyping.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7rwEXGwIIZoXkTBb02fyecS0cd162XxoTR_kAWGfaGrO0m6GYLXdmih_aFTMmN4fnAcNQngzXrcjYqaCvAW4DO1oLA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6fvGYL30T-qH_YM593BVIPhOFpbbpyzsKaQvBomaW96WwAeX2PyBk1B-06z_aLV4S87eOJ5c052sFmTvwkDKtwcOoQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwLai07MJDA", + "preview": "

Our May Hacker of the Month, Jacob Stanton, hails from Chicago, Illinois where he works as an industrial designer making 3D sketches and models for new and improved consumer, industrial, and medical products.

", + "reference": "3d-printing-educational-tools-and-prototyping", + "title": "3D Printing Educational Tools and Prototyping", + "url": "/articles/3d-printing-educational-tools-and-prototyping" + }, + { + "author": "Chris Morgan", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Mar 5, 2018", + "description": "MatterHackers' March Hacker of the Month, Drew Aufhammer, grew his 3D printing hobby into a profession for helping physical therapists.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rzpiJkM6a4Rnb0yI25PFx4sdKjAbcCEf2mhCNaWGSmDfSvjnKm1GmzaFVhLVCCv3XNp6TdNMofLiKsRbDMhT6j_mgQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FP8AfivH6u-qzQsXbEqH_28xZVHuNf2Q6Bf07KLG55qP6IZSL3RKenEB_i7tbocFrM28SzwGjhq0dyg_vOXM7rFDNZ8", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPqGyKEKDA", + "preview": "

In The Beginning

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For some of us, turning a passion for a hobby into a profession can become a reality. This story is all about Drew Aufhammer, who did just that with his love of 3D printing.

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", + "reference": "3d-printing-and-mold-making-in-physical-therapy", + "title": "3D Printed Physical Therapy Tools", + "url": "/articles/3d-printing-and-mold-making-in-physical-therapy" + }, + { + "author": "Chris Morgan", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Feb 5, 2018", + "description": "Hacker of the Month, Matt Schmotzer, goes over the process and inspiration for how he designs, 3D prints and assembles scale models of roller coasters.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q1kqg0YmjL9XUMMViRWoROM7exnJMLCaPTrUComRF30-DQuBeaqcCFGlBRtcsjgyUdNMmnXeHb3us_xy80I40lfy9w", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q1kqg0YmjL9XUMMViRWoROM7exnJMLCaPTrUComRF30-DQuBeaqcCFGlBRtcsjgyUdNMmnXeHb3us_xy80I40lfy9w", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwPKAg7kKDA", + "preview": "

Our February Hacker of the Month is Matt Schmotzer, who hails from Gross Pointe Park in Michigan. Matt currently works for Ford Motor Company on turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines. While his work sounds impressive, it pales in comparison to his latest 3D printing hobby build; a fully-functioning, to-scale replica of the Invertigo roller coaster at Kings Island Amusement Park in Ohio.

", + "reference": "3d-printed-working-roller-coaster-model", + "title": "3D Printed Working Roller Coaster Model", + "url": "/articles/3d-printed-working-roller-coaster-model" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Oct 16, 2017", + "description": "David Martin of Dicey Ventures Studios, MatterHackers' November Hacker of the Month, creates 3D printed pieces for fantasy-driven tabletop games.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/urJP8DETNUHC2gOTXJcDsoHpDTPZuGKmJgybHm32ITLLr0JD19GcRxEhtszXrt88EsyovYh4tHC4Loa5U0E4CYgjrBw", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/biywd_gOSussz4re9eUh_vZrrr3yMxWOin2skT8tHcI88cpL5uN8DPy-efZp6cGAj0e06H2jLfxyt7jLbxc9s4dS9cM", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwMyxz_8IDA", + "preview": "

3D printers are the ultimate customization tool. They can help expand any hobby. Seriously - we've covered someone who uses 3D printing for ocean kayaking, to someone who uses it for building combat robots. 3D printers really can do some incredible things. Something that we love here at MatterHackers, though, is when one persons' passion turns into a business, and, thanks to 3D printing, is then shared with others. David Martin, our November Hacker of the Month, started his company, Dicey Ventures, which created The Elemental Village, table-top fantasy game pieces that are 3D printed.

", + "reference": "custom-3d-printed-game-pieces", + "title": "Custom 3D Printed Game Pieces ", + "url": "/articles/custom-3d-printed-game-pieces" + }, + { + "author": "Guest Contributor: Jim Leemhuis", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Sep 14, 2017", + "description": "Learn how Jim Leemhuis is using PETG 3D filament to create amazing talking tiki statues. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZMsuRHXO_lJrOVcW5-ovp-dU0I548BXk0Z7ULAc1aUt0zDKNU5UkMWFh3T7o77EL55q8burej8cqY4GECHje413PMA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZMsuRHXO_lJrOVcW5-ovp-dU0I548BXk0Z7ULAc1aUt0zDKNU5UkMWFh3T7o77EL55q8burej8cqY4GECHje413PMA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwOTVnrUJDA", + "preview": "

My name is Jim Leemhuis. I’m 34 years old from Lexington, Kentucky. By day, I’m a mechanical engineer helping design laser printers for Lexmark International Inc. By night, I spend my time 3D printing, coding, and assembling animatronic figures.

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I don't think there is anyone out there who doesn't think the words \"awesome\" or \"rad\" when they hear the words \"combat robot.\" If there is, and that person happens to be reading this article, they should probably just move on to the next great MatterHackers article, because this section is all about Corey Nason's awesome and rad 3D printed battle bot!

", + "reference": "3d-printed-nylonx-combat-robot", + "title": "3D Printed NylonX Combat Robot", + "url": "/news/3d-printed-nylonx-combat-robot" + }, + { + "author": "Guest Contributor Rusty Atkeisson", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Aug 6, 2017", + "description": "Rusty Atkeisson, our August Hacker of the Month, takes us inside the imaginative process behind his 3D printed animatronic dragons.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TBtyuh3KbzfGD8j7Jmm7KA7MlTn_ZYVZRDZK6xbJscLR05eFjNEscCh0_ft6ydE-E7mi8phhOxbpGR36Ds7dPd0", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/A5iIZUIgRAQj8j39B7uF3SbtoTCFZ4Ishw8gRt-ckefk-rdGS45BuJSWGLxYn6Tw7f4vaKGZ-yntFj99qCrIC_DZ4-U", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwJjY5LoLDA", + "preview": "

Building dragons may be one of those situations where you are training yourself as much as your creature.  In the course of breathing life into Vogal, Zeichen Zwei, Saphira, and the other dragons, I have learned innumerable skills and tricks from beyond the classroom and even beyond the almost endless reaches of YouTube and Google.  I still have a long road a head of me in creating even more lifelike creatures but here's a bit of a break down of what I've gone through, lessons I've learned, and useful tips to help the aspiring puppeteer along the way.  Although, puppeteer doesn't sound quite right in this light; maybe we had best call ourselves a sorcerer's apprentice.

", + "reference": "3d-printed-animatronic-dragons", + "title": "3D Printed Animatronic Dragons", + "url": "/news/3d-printed-animatronic-dragons" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Jul 5, 2017", + "description": "Garrett Faulkner, our July Hacker of the Month, uses 3D printing to create perfect architectural designs of homes. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z_rbqgyuN6ZPte7-BV1RuNddpTzxTkeF4rHNaVNJy_g5hutMbhuOr_RZP7lKxV1fVY41etyaGZO6KBR_z3mIFP6Q2bI", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/z_rbqgyuN6ZPte7-BV1RuNddpTzxTkeF4rHNaVNJy_g5hutMbhuOr_RZP7lKxV1fVY41etyaGZO6KBR_z3mIFP6Q2bI", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwLCp1bUKDA", + "preview": "

Garrett Faulkner, our July Hacker of the month, is a Digital Fabrication Specialist and Architectural Model Maker for Faulkner Industrial, where he makes designs come to life with the use of 3D printing. 

", + "reference": "stunning-3d-printed-architectural-designs", + "title": "Stunning 3D Printed Architectural Designs", + "url": "/articles/stunning-3d-printed-architectural-designs" + }, + { + "author": "Guest Contributor Calvin Iba", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "May 31, 2017", + "description": "Cal Poly Pomona's Human Powered Vehicle Team, our June Hackers of the Month, designed and 3D printed functional bike components using PRO Series Nylon to race in an intercollegiate competition. Calvin Iba, a member of the team, describes his firsthand experience. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gFFW4sgC20UHHfdaFY9n5wNJr6FlWsagwyn5pVdcpMej1_5_9P90iQ0HXRWNPKZQIwLuRQSOeAST8dTuEOSkMhWL-GU", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gFFW4sgC20UHHfdaFY9n5wNJr6FlWsagwyn5pVdcpMej1_5_9P90iQ0HXRWNPKZQIwLuRQSOeAST8dTuEOSkMhWL-GU", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAwIDeh6IKDA", + "preview": "

Cal Poly Pomona’s Human Powered Vehicle team is a club that designs and builds a recumbent bicycle and competes with it against other colleges. This year, we made a “tadpole” which uses two front wheels and one rear wheel. We used 3d printing to build critical components of the bike.

", + "reference": "3d-printed-bike-parts", + "title": "3D Printed Bike Parts", + "url": "/news/3d-printed-bike-parts" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Apr 11, 2017", + "description": "Brooke Peterson, our May Hacker of the Month, used 3D printing to create a mission model for her fourth grade project. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3BlIjENzYH_PQ4r7TaiQa81yD9o1qIF4-QYmGRB2WhQbhXHX4TO65Y5C_6hZ1QAlqnMpRSLzqtfPnudrSOrp5ALH6A", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3BlIjENzYH_PQ4r7TaiQa81yD9o1qIF4-QYmGRB2WhQbhXHX4TO65Y5C_6hZ1QAlqnMpRSLzqtfPnudrSOrp5ALH6A", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgI_0u6MKDA", + "preview": "

We love when 3D printing is being used for education, especially at the elementary level - get 'em obsessed with 3D printing while their young! What we love even more, though, is when students problem solve using 3D printers on their own. Brooke Peterson, a fourth grade student from California, decided that the best way to create her California Mission project was to use her father's 3D printer. 

", + "reference": "3d-printed-california-mission-model", + "title": "3D Printed California Mission Model", + "url": "/news/3d-printed-california-mission-model" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Aug 3, 2015", + "description": "What do you get when you combine animal lovers and 3D printing? 3D designed and printed solutions for our fuzzy friends in need, of course! Meet Bubbles, the adorable fur baby with two legs and a 3D printed cart.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LgK-7zt6rYquqge9X49wf62C_3w8QqsT4OtnpMNpLlMUqsFCms4VdreqQZg4Kco_Da1pdZmbsuSZUWNYMrV32NOU9g", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LgK-7zt6rYquqge9X49wf62C_3w8QqsT4OtnpMNpLlMUqsFCms4VdreqQZg4Kco_Da1pdZmbsuSZUWNYMrV32NOU9g", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIrU5rkKDA", + "preview": "

Congratulations to Trevor Byers, the 3D printing animal lover who gave his dog, Bubbles, the ability to walk. Bubbles the weiner dog, born July 27, 2014, came into the world without her two front legs - but, as you can tell from the picture below, this did not discourage her! 

", + "reference": "august-2015-hacker-of-the-month-two-legged-wiener-dog-keeps-rolling-with-3d-printing", + "title": "Two Legged Wiener Dog Keeps Rolling with 3D Printing", + "url": "/news/august-2015-hacker-of-the-month-two-legged-wiener-dog-keeps-rolling-with-3d-printing" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Jul 6, 2015", + "description": "Wait - THAT is 3D printed? Check out what Mekah Design Studios has done to make Standard PLA look like a rustic artifact. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rryDDq6ktt9hbuHJ15GMxv40SLU2FoBSNWgRzQsIfWkiVMXVjMzZjCbg100bKRwVeBFE8F3IpoiF8LMTZiTJQAqgFQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rryDDq6ktt9hbuHJ15GMxv40SLU2FoBSNWgRzQsIfWkiVMXVjMzZjCbg100bKRwVeBFE8F3IpoiF8LMTZiTJQAqgFQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNKHvbUJDA", + "preview": "

Congratulations to Mekah Design Studios, our July 2015 Hacker of the Month! Mekah Design Studios has implemeted 3D printing into part of their craft. Printing for about a year, the Mekah team has been improving the speed and quality of their work with the use of their SeeMeCNC Orion. Less than a year ago, the team had a request for 20 trophies that they chose to fulfill with the help of 3D printing.

", + "reference": "july-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "July 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/july-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Jun 1, 2015", + "description": "3D Printing and Skateboarding? Find out what they have in common with Kevin Seele and BLOCK Riser Innovations. Let all your hobbies collide!", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IpSyhHkSOlayU6b5Qbux8g0VZ7xCdEEumhUAvTd1iLrFNfFDy_gct1tN16uP-6aNmyNBYjNWxq0NNd8Ht4vh6694UTk", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IpSyhHkSOlayU6b5Qbux8g0VZ7xCdEEumhUAvTd1iLrFNfFDy_gct1tN16uP-6aNmyNBYjNWxq0NNd8Ht4vh6694UTk", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMKXt7UJDA", + "preview": "

It all began three years ago when Kevin Seele, founder of BLOCK Riser Innovations, wanted to combine his two favorite hobbies- skateboarding and building. While the designs for a skateboard's wheels, truck, and body had already expanded and changed over the years, risers had not. In fact, they had stayed exactly the same. Seele realized there was potential for a riser mechanism that had multiple functionalities, which led to the idea of BLOCK risers.

", + "reference": "june-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "June 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/june-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "May 28, 2015", + "description": "Who said you had to be a big kid to print? Meet our nine-year-old Hacker of the Month, Abigail! She uses 3D printing to personalize her play time experience. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xpnHAOwRpJ1nCh2p02tapACUTB1wEqsf8Mta1K86PaW86srH2bUTDJU4v0H9itbZRUiHkZd5MODmx-sdlX5spneI", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xpnHAOwRpJ1nCh2p02tapACUTB1wEqsf8Mta1K86PaW86srH2bUTDJU4v0H9itbZRUiHkZd5MODmx-sdlX5spneI", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMLWl5IIDA", + "preview": "

Small, but incredibly mighty, nine-year-old Abigail wowed us with her impressive dollhouse furniture designs. 

\n

\"I just went on Tinkedcad and started making stuff. It didn't look very real at first because it was flat and then I started adding shapes and it started to build itself,\" Abigail said. 

", + "reference": "may-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "May 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/may-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Apr 5, 2015", + "description": "Introducing Troy Peterson - April's Hacker of the Month! Troy utilizes 3D printing to create silicone molds. Learn how easy it is to quickly develop prototypes for all your future projects that require molds and casts. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5FvS5s_GytcGfEg6UDuS0ej1e9xcvU9llbbljZWvOsyQz6u6qL1dmrAmG-uqDPdR52VpIvaGjnuG_-z9Xzkxk_8uSA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5FvS5s_GytcGfEg6UDuS0ej1e9xcvU9llbbljZWvOsyQz6u6qL1dmrAmG-uqDPdR52VpIvaGjnuG_-z9Xzkxk_8uSA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgOz3m78KDA", + "preview": "

A big congrats to Troy Peterson, our April 2015 Hacker of the Month! Troy intrigued us with his method of using 3D printed parts to make production-ready silicone molds. His submission included a thorough video about creating molds for a Skin Rejuvenator that often gets mistaken for a hair dryer. Peterson, who works in Technical Sale and Marketing for BJB Enterprises, has a background in aerospace composites, mold-making, and graphic design. BJB has a long history in product development, entertainment, theme park, and manufacturing industries. They produce raw materials; not finished parts.

", + "reference": "april-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "April 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/april-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Mar 9, 2015", + "description": "Check out March's Hacker of the Month! It's a great way to learn about new projects and designs to print - get to know your fellow 3D printing community through this friendly monthly competition!", + "hero": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/I2XmBcq5LIhzx0DXFMQZiKRnpl4C_edGxdFgstlQNmk26CtjNnyreO-nE7jsHEUvjptzHhpGoIE3gg8Z823qIOCs", + "icon": "https://lh5.ggpht.com/I2XmBcq5LIhzx0DXFMQZiKRnpl4C_edGxdFgstlQNmk26CtjNnyreO-nE7jsHEUvjptzHhpGoIE3gg8Z823qIOCs", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIzb2KUKDA", + "preview": "

Congratulations to Chris Wlezien, our March 2015 Hacker of the Month who impressed us with his practical and thoughtful Father's Day present! After his father had recently moved, Wlezien created a unique controllable LED address bar that made for the perfect Father's Day gift. 

", + "reference": "march-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "March 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/march-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Feb 9, 2015", + "description": "Check out February's Hacker of the Month! It's a great way to learn about new projects and designs to print - get to know your fellow 3D printing community through this friendly monthly competition! ", + "hero": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/p2EifD4jEpcQa9kBIGEheWZfn2A3ORcjeshVGkNP4vqiS9GAuGRNIG2sqreAQsHh6fD2FG49asIJvizjMzZ9V6VAYCQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.ggpht.com/p2EifD4jEpcQa9kBIGEheWZfn2A3ORcjeshVGkNP4vqiS9GAuGRNIG2sqreAQsHh6fD2FG49asIJvizjMzZ9V6VAYCQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJS_naYKDA", + "preview": "

Congratulations to our February Hacker of the Month, Jesse Laster, who impressed us with his crafty 3D printed Meter Clock! According to Laster, it all began with the idea to make a birthday gift for good friend Lauren Bitikofer, electricity and aviation professor at the School of Aeronautical Science at LeTourneau University.

\n

\"I started with the idea that I wanted to make a meter clock then I started putting together the pieces that I needed to get that result. Printing the box turned out to be one of the easiest parts of the build.\" said Laster.

", + "reference": "february-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "February 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/february-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Jan 4, 2015", + "description": "Now introducing a spot where we highlight interesting and unique projects from our 3D printing community members. ", + "hero": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/RX_s21pnL6pIKRU7AlpBkYcmgLxnDLgd1JMS3EM4A7ltO8XquhsDe1ObMlxNwErVDJOQ7Dn3xE0lTzHzo4spUb84UaQ", + "icon": "https://lh6.ggpht.com/RX_s21pnL6pIKRU7AlpBkYcmgLxnDLgd1JMS3EM4A7ltO8XquhsDe1ObMlxNwErVDJOQ7Dn3xE0lTzHzo4spUb84UaQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMT34LUKDA", + "preview": "

We love all the innovative and creative projects our 3d printing community members are producing. We love them so much we would like to take the opportunity to highlight them. Introducing Hacker of the Month! A new Hacker of the Month will be featured each month in our newsletter as well as on our social media platforms. The winner also receives one free roll of PRO series ABS or PLA filament.

", + "reference": "january-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "January 2015 Hacker of the Month- Isaac Thompson", + "url": "/news/january-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Sep 8, 2015", + "description": "We've heard the sky is the limit, but what about the sea? Come explore Ruth Blue's underwater world of 3D printing and robotics. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dPMHk1a1qwKpd1lW_fFoOhZ-3SJ5JJDCvaXHeTKkNqpsyC-f-KfVqg5mPJ6bHYLdVjm0Gp0Poxc3Tf4T9E5QwR0bI3c", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dPMHk1a1qwKpd1lW_fFoOhZ-3SJ5JJDCvaXHeTKkNqpsyC-f-KfVqg5mPJ6bHYLdVjm0Gp0Poxc3Tf4T9E5QwR0bI3c", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJqN46MLDA", + "preview": "

For many of us, all it took was one glance at a 3D printer to be immediately mesmerized, and then subsequently hooked. It was no different for 15 year old Ruth Blue. Her father brought home a Lulzbot for his projects, and over one weekend Ruth began to learn about the machine before eventually designing and printing projects of her own. \"From that moment forward I think the machine has been buzzing on one project after another,\" said Rhonda Blue, Ruth's mother, \"we live in an amazing time and just have so much fun with it!\"

", + "reference": "september-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "September 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/september-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Oct 5, 2015", + "description": "How one couple combined 3D printing with their passion for homebrewing by designing a 3D printed keg dispensing system for specialty suds. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TM1hNJJtBlTyX_nW-w15f7NMwhj8iIdbvf31fMxP7v9kCaVAJFqVewu1dKEvFOBvQ56TAfmnUBmqAOPqxP-wDF3N2g", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/TM1hNJJtBlTyX_nW-w15f7NMwhj8iIdbvf31fMxP7v9kCaVAJFqVewu1dKEvFOBvQ56TAfmnUBmqAOPqxP-wDF3N2g", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPqnyqUKDA", + "preview": "

Last December, Joe Dietz and his wife Amy needed a way to dispense their homebrewed beer on the go. With a great idea and the power of 3D printing, they found their solution: Attach-a-Tap!

", + "reference": "october-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "October 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/october-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Nov 8, 2015", + "description": "Meet Todd Borrel, a man who had an idea for his video game controller and learned how to create it with 3D printing in a matter of months. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lXX7_DuUbcb80r-Bz8agnmxckgr-wzfdYFP20Y2jDnJOA-LZmTF_LTKYBek8MNB6MsoLx7JaJaNm3I2oqqFtns6MJdo", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lXX7_DuUbcb80r-Bz8agnmxckgr-wzfdYFP20Y2jDnJOA-LZmTF_LTKYBek8MNB6MsoLx7JaJaNm3I2oqqFtns6MJdo", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKa1o6UKDA", + "preview": "

It all began when Todd Borrel was playing a football game on his Xbox when the problem started to arise. His thumbs kept slipping on the joystick controllers causing his game performance to suffer. After several torturous games, Borrel decided enough was enough - he was going to create something to solve his problem.

", + "reference": "november-2015-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "November 2015 Hacker of the Month", + "url": "/news/november-2015-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Dec 16, 2015", + "description": "Seventeen years ago, Kyle Weems was assigned a science project on yo-yos that sparked an untapped passion. Since then, he has turned that passion into a business: 3D printed custom yo-yos.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KNiQtAVjxUyusVLK9gHb6wBPxaJU7olfiBoLHBHmN8zAiaZq_zC13wBALrPIEo7Sbcd5QOxNKrlvjkt977d6C_zXsQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KNiQtAVjxUyusVLK9gHb6wBPxaJU7olfiBoLHBHmN8zAiaZq_zC13wBALrPIEo7Sbcd5QOxNKrlvjkt977d6C_zXsQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPbo5aoKDA", + "preview": "

In 1998, promotional ads worldwide were running on yo-yos. Not only were these toys fun, but they were educational. That same year, Kyle Weems was assigned to do a science project on these entertaining toys, seeing that they were (and still are) the perfect example of rotational physics. As his love for yo-yos grew, Weems had no idea that this particular science project would change his life. 

", + "reference": "december-2016-hacker-of-the-month", + "title": "Highly Engineered and 3D Printed Yo-Yos", + "url": "/news/december-2016-hacker-of-the-month" + }, + { + "author": "Roger Freeman", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Jan 13, 2016", + "description": "Roger Freeman, inventor of the Freebird Flight drone, shares his 3D printing story and the process behind developing his drone.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jeugoMlP65CYsFm4HSl1K7l0F9QEM-4ls_qweDGarW_l75f4BaiSRpbeRLnzRiAV75RXXdYHu8JXQEWrS2AmT4pi", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jeugoMlP65CYsFm4HSl1K7l0F9QEM-4ls_qweDGarW_l75f4BaiSRpbeRLnzRiAV75RXXdYHu8JXQEWrS2AmT4pi", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgK6yif8LDA", + "preview": "

Technology and the latest gadgets have always been an interest to me, but they were confined to hobbies during my limited free time as a financial analyst for nearly 20 years. I decided to take some time away from that world in early 2014 after  the 2008 financial crisis effects sapped the industry of a lot of the bright minds that had attracted me to it in the mid-‘90s. I was hoping to unleash my creativity in developing something new where I could make a difference, and I was excited to finally have some time to do that.

", + "reference": "january-2016-hacker-of-the-month-freebird-flight", + "title": "January 2016 Hacker of the Month- Freebird Flight", + "url": "/news/january-2016-hacker-of-the-month-freebird-flight" + }, + { + "author": "Erica Derrico", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Feb 1, 2016", + "description": "Matt Manhattan, our February Hacker of the Month, took a stab at merging an everyday object with 3D printed parts to create a new, customized item. With great success, he's done it! Everyone has one, but do you have your very own, personalized night light? ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/46fSrLfRicWU0evpBTpr_us60pvVuv_u5Lo9KnFQxp46MI9kN1pX-YtxUa9A0NoSxaPp8bDX6Aa062C_1fZKietMHg", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgN7G-aYKDA", + "preview": "

It began how all of us often get into 3D printing - a little curiosity. Two years ago, Matt Manhattan decided to follow through with that curiosity and jumped into 3D printing. Excited, Manhattan researched for a year and finally bought a machine - Ultimaker 2.

", + "reference": "create-your-own-custom-night-light", + "title": "Create Your Own Custom Night Light", + "url": "/news/create-your-own-custom-night-light" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Feb 18, 2016", + "description": "3D printing is not limited to functional parts and rapid prototyping. Our March Hacker of the Month, Shane Hope, proves this with his biological molecular model masterpieces. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kNf-6C8A5DCeHUvzDjt89OU4rafa4nYJkqI-yzY1Mtfc6gdLu06x1dWxE78nhSep-L1wCDWDKAH632n-m9nhZszHZ-o", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kNf-6C8A5DCeHUvzDjt89OU4rafa4nYJkqI-yzY1Mtfc6gdLu06x1dWxE78nhSep-L1wCDWDKAH632n-m9nhZszHZ-o", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgP7MsacKDA", + "preview": "

We here at MatterHackers love exploring the possibilities of 3D printing. Whether it's new materials, complex designs, or even just silly projects, we've had our fair share of experimentation. One realm that is difficult to transition into, however, is the world of art. 

", + "reference": "march-2016-hacker-of-the-month---art-by-hope", + "title": "3D Printed Molecular Masterpieces", + "url": "/articles/march-2016-hacker-of-the-month---art-by-hope" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Apr 10, 2016", + "description": "Well known for his epic cosplay work, artist and founder of Hero Complex Props, Michael Ruddy, uses 3d printing to help his son with autism, and in his day job as a school handyman. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rzjcJ1hiijaLrlp5E_z39lIr4pz9UkENErThrSzi2LaoJh-e5JS41fZYtT2WY7GWtskLr8OlYVxcvnAeik12rMOetA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rzjcJ1hiijaLrlp5E_z39lIr4pz9UkENErThrSzi2LaoJh-e5JS41fZYtT2WY7GWtskLr8OlYVxcvnAeik12rMOetA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMGZ8aMKDA", + "preview": "

It is hard not to feel excited or giddy when you hear Michael Ruddy speak about his passion: 3D printing.

\n

Ruddy first started 3D printing at the school where he works as a handyman when a neighboring school gave them an original MakerBot. \"The other school thought it was broken - obviously it wasn't broken, the nozzle was just clogged,\" said Ruddy.

\n

Ahhh, the joys of 3D printing. 

\n

\"The IT guy and I looked at it together, and the second we got it working, I thought, we can use this for everything\" - and he pretty much has.

", + "reference": "april-2016-hacker-of-the-month-3d-printed-cosplay-fun", + "title": "3D Printing Beyond Cosplay", + "url": "/articles/april-2016-hacker-of-the-month-3d-printed-cosplay-fun" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "articles", + "date_published": "Apr 20, 2016", + "description": "Captain Andrew Stotts, MatterHackers' May Hacker of the Month, doesn't just save lives and extinguish fires - he also improves the workplace for both himself and his team with 3D printing. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1KGqxw0f_RRaB7V_wRbLhMSmJUhmH-8MlJXHZ-MwOIh1KWz42wLjmXLDvs4s-uRtrKq6OSIXqU2_pPFy59SVN2bqucA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1KGqxw0f_RRaB7V_wRbLhMSmJUhmH-8MlJXHZ-MwOIh1KWz42wLjmXLDvs4s-uRtrKq6OSIXqU2_pPFy59SVN2bqucA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNGWxrQKDA", + "preview": "

Fire Fighter Captain Andrew Stotts first heard about 3D printing from a friend who is a high school shop teacher. Ever since then he's been hooked - hooked to the point that in the past year and a half, he now owns and operates a fleet of 15 printers.

", + "reference": "15-surprising-ways-firemen-can-use-3d-printing", + "title": "15 Surprising Ways Firefighters Are Using 3D Printing", + "url": "/articles/15-surprising-ways-firemen-can-use-3d-printing" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "May 18, 2016", + "description": "Saroj Manandhar, MatterHackers' June Hacker of the Month, shares his secrets to achieving the sleek, detailed prints we all crave.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y46rsZ_mTbXVqXfavnrEB7ATKHSfGkQPs1I1QZAPwPWgulnWHvzKy9eisfvVHmmKeOyOGEp3JKOARVXK07KcKKqCe34", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y46rsZ_mTbXVqXfavnrEB7ATKHSfGkQPs1I1QZAPwPWgulnWHvzKy9eisfvVHmmKeOyOGEp3JKOARVXK07KcKKqCe34", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgMmUoq8JDA", + "preview": "

Saroj Manandhar, an Engineering Manager at The Toro Company, first learned about 3D printing when he attended a tradeshow in 1999, where he set his eyes on a Stratasys FDM 3000. Right then and there, he knew he had to have one.

", + "reference": "four-awesome-finishing-touches-to-make-realistic-movie-models", + "title": "Four Awesome Finishing Touches to Make Realistic Movie Models", + "url": "/news/four-awesome-finishing-touches-to-make-realistic-movie-models" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Jun 29, 2016", + "description": "From giant statues to hydroponics, MatterHackers' July Hacker of the Month, Andrew Harmon, designs and constructs art pieces in addition to functional projects.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nu6GPPC2aJVLGosmXoNO-XwTTpSFWlyBmnfE4NlDrtzJyWKHdEUL1asUDRJdEXz1DS5tIE2IBJC8IPEj-dQA62o6CQ", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nu6GPPC2aJVLGosmXoNO-XwTTpSFWlyBmnfE4NlDrtzJyWKHdEUL1asUDRJdEXz1DS5tIE2IBJC8IPEj-dQA62o6CQ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgNnm06IKDA", + "preview": "

Last month, we published an article on exceeding the build volume of your printer - you can find it here if you missed it. Well, if anyone has been exceeding build volumes, as well as expectations, it's Andrew Harmon. Harmon, July's Hacker of the Month, has mastered transcending the limited space that certain 3D printers allow.

", + "reference": "an-artistic-perspective-on-printing-outside-the-box", + "title": "An Artistic Perspective on Printing Outside the Box", + "url": "/news/an-artistic-perspective-on-printing-outside-the-box" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Aug 17, 2016", + "description": "Jesse Kovarovics, MatterHackers' August Hacker of the Month, creates the world's first 3D printed foam dart blaster: the FDL-1.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kYtMldxWSqhdLAXviLH1EtiX1H8-L2znq_UPvnoKLRZQmb4Pf_FTBC34Op6Q28-G0ASNF3xcIp7h8h-Kw76PvuVZ", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kYtMldxWSqhdLAXviLH1EtiX1H8-L2znq_UPvnoKLRZQmb4Pf_FTBC34Op6Q28-G0ASNF3xcIp7h8h-Kw76PvuVZ", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgIXinKEKDA", + "preview": "

When it comes to foam dart guns, you could say that we here at MatterHackers are big fans. Seriously, not one holiday party has gone by where an all-out battle of flying foam darts ensues. So, needless to say, we were very excited to feature Jesse Kovarovics, creator of the FDL-1, for our August Hacker of the Month. 

\n

To print your own FDL-1, visit the MatterHackers Digital Design Store, files are free!

", + "reference": "the-most-incredible-3d-printed-dart-launcher-youll-ever-see", + "title": "The Most Incredible 3D Printed Dart Launcher You'll Ever See", + "url": "/news/the-most-incredible-3d-printed-dart-launcher-youll-ever-see" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Aug 31, 2016", + "description": "Up your photography game and print your own pinhole camera like Todd Schlemmer, MatterHackers' September Hacker of the Month. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vMdabRDtdeEXNR-WUndh3irPG1q__JM4u3TRiv4xr2ohX8DywO_SH_3zK__w4qUiOQ2ivLpcgpr7AtrsXppSMjyv", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vMdabRDtdeEXNR-WUndh3irPG1q__JM4u3TRiv4xr2ohX8DywO_SH_3zK__w4qUiOQ2ivLpcgpr7AtrsXppSMjyv", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKWX_aUKDA", + "preview": "

We love when 3D printing collides with long-standing hobbies. Enter: Todd Schlemmer, our September Hacker of the Month, and his passion for pinhole cameras and photography. 

\n

Schlemmer has been building pinhole cameras for several years out of traditional carpentry and papercraft. He started 3D printing his cameras in 2012 once he built his Printrbot Plus kit: \"I was delighted by my initial results,\" states Schlemmer, \"and I have continued to develop and refine new camera designs.\"

", + "reference": "3d-printed-pinhole-cameras", + "title": "3D Printed Pinhole Cameras", + "url": "/news/3d-printed-pinhole-cameras" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Oct 2, 2016", + "description": "FarmBot, MatterHackers' October Hacker of the Month, makes traditional agriculture a thing of the past thanks to 3D printed cultivation.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/svaUio6LjnJhLBLLVsNIJjZ4Zl_eitrmGFWeRiHMB59_hLnWihs60R2GmzhNpbQOg1oBWS6xFTSNWUVJVSeRShfl", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/svaUio6LjnJhLBLLVsNIJjZ4Zl_eitrmGFWeRiHMB59_hLnWihs60R2GmzhNpbQOg1oBWS6xFTSNWUVJVSeRShfl", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPXMrqALDA", + "preview": "

Meandering through the produce section of your local supermarket, grabbing items off your shopping list, and tossing them in the cart are pretty mindless tasks. If you are like me, you're probably in zombie mode while shopping, thinking about far more important things like future plans, work, or even reliving embarrassing moments from your past. I'm definitely not thinking about where the tomato in my hand is from, or how the asparagus in my cart traveled to the grocery store. 

", + "reference": "farmbot:-the-open-source,-cnc-farming-robot", + "title": "FarmBot: The Open Source CNC Farming Robot", + "url": "/news/farmbot:-the-open-source,-cnc-farming-robot" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Oct 20, 2016", + "description": "MatterHackers' November Hacker of the Month, Aida Legrand, uses the BCN3D Sigma printer to create incredible 3D printed dolls.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rVBUs3INlUVmgDJsqwcCpPhv5bEFYG0bDHLM5eldW2SjHR2ShXAR-dfKsa_loQXVMrlQuCxTwIofmG2d06GaexnT0gY", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rVBUs3INlUVmgDJsqwcCpPhv5bEFYG0bDHLM5eldW2SjHR2ShXAR-dfKsa_loQXVMrlQuCxTwIofmG2d06GaexnT0gY", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgL37sLEKDA", + "preview": "

Aida Legrand, MatterHackers' November Hacker of the Month, has only been 3D printing since January of 2016. Legrand's husband bought the self proclaimed \"technical geek\" and software engineer a Robo 3D R1 Plus to kick off her 3D printing obsession, which has now become her full blown hobby. She has since upgraded to the BCN3D Sigma, and her prints are stunning - Legrand creates 3D printed ball-jointed dolls.

", + "reference": "you-won", + "title": "You Won't Believe These Dolls are 3D Printed", + "url": "/news/you-won" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Nov 16, 2016", + "description": "See the amazing 3D printed custom car parts from Michael O'Brien, MatterHackers' December Hacker of the Month. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qQ_vlg8QY0kk0yvTzinjKKHcxWws-DWtMrqSunh6B0lXwu_Gt-91S8uHHwqfnwSCAS1r7UFHuULRD6Vqf3gOOI5Rqs0", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qQ_vlg8QY0kk0yvTzinjKKHcxWws-DWtMrqSunh6B0lXwu_Gt-91S8uHHwqfnwSCAS1r7UFHuULRD6Vqf3gOOI5Rqs0", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKPeprwKDA", + "preview": "

It would be an understatement to say that Michael O'Brien likes cars. Take one look at his Instagram, and you'll see what I mean. He's fully immersed in the automotive industry; being lead engineer at the Roadster Shop, I'd imagine that you'd have to be.

\n

When we discovered that O'Brien (aka Magic Mike) was using 3D printing to help design and manufacture custom accessories for cars, we knew he had to be featured as our December Hacker of the Month. 

", + "reference": "3d-printed-custom-car-parts", + "title": "3D Printed Custom Car Parts", + "url": "/news/3d-printed-custom-car-parts" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Dec 19, 2016", + "description": "Theater masks, rockets, e-NABLE hands and more - see how Ashley Ricart, our January Hacker of the Month, is using 3D printing in the classroom.", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_tB9UVAEcUcKXAgaRdKwK81Ic4SMBJ1xnJqtdGJdUkaSYZ_CHVJJcUeScphe-V7ZyJjXRATF7ad3L6dla43Osg2X", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_tB9UVAEcUcKXAgaRdKwK81Ic4SMBJ1xnJqtdGJdUkaSYZ_CHVJJcUeScphe-V7ZyJjXRATF7ad3L6dla43Osg2X", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgPPnn74KDA", + "preview": "

Ashley Ricart, our January Hacker of the Month, was first captivated by 3D printing technology around 2012. She originally went to school for character modeling, which eventually led to her discovery of 3D printing. Ricart, who is now a teacher, has been on a mission to implement 3D printing throughout her school - not just in STEM focused classes, but multiple courses, including Theater, English, Latin, and Art. Her most recent endeavor was producing masks and props for the schools production of the play, The Lion King. In total, thirteen masks were printed using seven to eight spools of PLA filament. 

", + "reference": "how-one-educator-is-using-3d-printing-in-the-classroom", + "title": "How One Educator is Using 3D Printing in the Classroom", + "url": "/news/how-one-educator-is-using-3d-printing-in-the-classroom" + }, + { + "author": "Guest Contributor Paul Yanzick", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Feb 9, 2017", + "description": "Paul Yanzick, our February Hacker of the Month, reminds us that 3D printing can be used to impact the lives of others, including his son, Tanner. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UQ7JM0PQ1kB_nnzdcR-G45xNqMWscX2VXttKtkzPPH7tC-BceKOr0r4wBeawGudTkntKBSgqmBOPc6Ee67zET_7sqA", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UQ7JM0PQ1kB_nnzdcR-G45xNqMWscX2VXttKtkzPPH7tC-BceKOr0r4wBeawGudTkntKBSgqmBOPc6Ee67zET_7sqA", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgJuNgKoKDA", + "preview": "

Like many of you, what brought me to 3D printing was the ‘cool factor’ – being able to create things out of nothing but a model and what looked like colored trimmer string. I started my journey over 3 years ago now, and at the time I was googly eyed by the impressive prints that people were making, and found it truly amazing that I could make a butterfly, a Christmas tree topper and a minion (my first two prints ever) right in my living room, out of plastic! I was looking forward to the direction that this new hobby may take me, but I would have never guessed where it would go.

", + "reference": "hacker-of-the-month-february-2017", + "title": "Tanner's Story: 3D Printing for Good", + "url": "/news/hacker-of-the-month-february-2017" + }, + { + "author": "MatterHackers", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Mar 8, 2017", + "description": "Additive part design guru Mike Skrzypczak, our March Hacker of the Month, needed a new guitar pedal - enter 3D printing. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BrEOqTLMWjiBUGpyw4ACWViP4-D-yhaUiwKoGlmHJLc9HaII5oDwt8uoH8DNF1O6wj9S_k-pgIBCciHCn8crp0GGVnc", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BrEOqTLMWjiBUGpyw4ACWViP4-D-yhaUiwKoGlmHJLc9HaII5oDwt8uoH8DNF1O6wj9S_k-pgIBCciHCn8crp0GGVnc", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgKf_jKUJDA", + "preview": "

One of the many things that I like to emphasize when people ask me \"what can you do with 3D printers\" is that they can enhance your hobbies through customization. Mike Skrzypczak, our March Hacker of the Month, is the perfect example of how any interest can be tweaked due to 3D printing to match personal preferences. 

", + "reference": "hacker-of-the-month-march-2017", + "title": "3D Printed Guitar Pedals", + "url": "/news/hacker-of-the-month-march-2017" + }, + { + "author": "Rhonda Grandy", + "category": "news", + "date_published": "Apr 4, 2017", + "description": "Explore how Anthony Williams, our April Hacker of the Month, designed his 3D printed mechanical Terminator hand replica. ", + "hero": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BMElFWQKF4sYo9QRn9hM6CqPMLB5yDvRsfxveMjTeYUdZ-vFYRjMEBEQ4pXnwyn2BoZVuKAY7IQWXjLhDdo8XXUW", + "icon": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BMElFWQKF4sYo9QRn9hM6CqPMLB5yDvRsfxveMjTeYUdZ-vFYRjMEBEQ4pXnwyn2BoZVuKAY7IQWXjLhDdo8XXUW", + "key": "ag9zfm1hdHRlcmhhY2tlcnNyGAsSC0FydGljbGVQYWdlGICAgLeKrrwKDA", + "preview": "

For the most part, we all know that you can make some really cool stuff thanks to 3D printing. Anthony Williams, our April Hacker of the Month, makes cool stuff and takes it to the next level by creating awesome videos during his design, printing, and building process. His most recent endeavor: a working mechanical Terminator hand replica. 

", + "reference": "3d-printed-functional-terminator-hand", + "title": "3D Printed Functional Terminator Hand", + "url": "/news/3d-printed-functional-terminator-hand" + } + ], + "group_link": "https://www.matterhackers.com/topic/hacker-of-the-month", + "group_subtitle": "Project ideas and examples", + "group_title": "Get Inspired", + "icon_url": "https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_Qyz24S3Fjw4jXeWbkNRfaNTJneb3IGkj-xjQptrXBxOINVwR9q0o14KWsu4KNF9QV6ZwmZTvTTiign0VgbXxqfbBrM=s60" + } + ], + "Status": "success" } \ No newline at end of file