Once the 3D printer is setup you are ready to print your object. You can download ready-to-print objects from sites like Thingiverse that can be altered or printed as is. Alternatively, you and your students could design an object from scratch using 3D modeling software.

The next step is to get the object file to your the printer. The Makerbot 2x can be connected directly to the computer so that you can print the object from there using the Makerware software. Alternatively, you can transfer the file to an SD card storage device that can be inserted into the printer. From there, you can use the printer’s menu controls to select and print the desired object.

Depending on the size and complexity, an object can take anywhere from a few minutes to upwards of a full day to print. Don’t be worried about leaving the Makerbot 2x overnight, as it is quite safe and will go into sleep mode when the object is completed.

There is a chance that something will go wrong with your print. Problem solve the fail. Is it printing a ball of string? Is the filament being fed through to the extruder? Is it printing at all? Once fixed, you will need to restart the print.

Don’t be discouraged if your class is having difficulty getting an object to print. It takes time and practice to get a handle on the 3D printer.