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🔹 Lesson Goals

• Introduce the most common 3D printing file formats (STL, OBJ).

• Teach how slicing software (like PrusaSlicer or Ultimaker Cura) works.

• Show how to adjust settings that affect print quality, speed, and strength.

• Give participants the confidence to prepare and troubleshoot their own prints.

🔹 What Participants Learn

1. What is Slicing?

   • Turning a 3D model (STL) into printer instructions (G-code).

   • Why different printers need different slicer settings.

2. Exploring the Interface

   • Tour of a slicer program (PrusaSlicer or Cura).

   • Importing an STL file into the software.

   • Rotating, scaling, and placing objects on the virtual print bed.

3. Basic Print Settings

   • Layer height: how thin or thick each layer of plastic is.

   • Infill: how solid or hollow the print will be.

   • Supports: what they are and when to use them.

   • Print speed vs. quality tradeoffs.

4. Filament Settings

   • How temperature affects PLA and other common filaments.

   • Bed temperature and adhesion options (glue stick, tape, PEI sheets).

5. Preview & Export

   • Using “preview mode” to see each layer before printing.

   • Exporting the file to G-code.

   • Sending the file to the printer (via SD card, USB, or OctoPrint).

6. Troubleshooting in the Slicer

   • What to do if a file is too large for your print bed.

   • Fixing floating objects or overhangs.

   • Common beginner mistakes (wrong filament settings, forgetting supports).

🔹 Hands-On Activity

• Each participant downloads a free STL file (e.g., keychain or toy).

• Walkthrough of slicing the file step by step.

• Everyone exports G-code and either sends it to a printer or does a simulated “dry run” in preview mode.

🔹 Lesson Goals

• Teach the basics of 3D printing technology in easy-to-understand terms.

• Provide hands-on experience with setting up, operating, and maintaining a 3D printer.

• Introduce the design-to-print process, from downloading files to slicing and printing.

• Build confidence so learners can continue printing at home, in school, or in community spaces.

🔹 Lesson Topics

1. Introduction to 3D Printing

   • What 3D printing is and how it works

   • Types of 3D printers (FDM explained in detail)

   • Examples of common 3D printed objects

2. Getting to Know the Printer

   • Parts of the printer (bed, extruder, filament spool, nozzle)

   • Loading and unloading filament

   • Safety basics (hot parts, moving parts, ventilation)

3. Understanding Files & Software

   • What an STL file is

   • How to download designs from trusted libraries (Thingiverse, Printables, etc.)

   • How slicing software works (PrusaSlicer/Cura basics)

4. Running Your First Print

   • Preparing the printer bed

   • Selecting a file and slicing it

   • Starting the print and watching the first layer

   • Troubleshooting common issues (warping, stringing, poor adhesion)

5. Post-Processing

   • Removing supports safely

   • Light sanding and smoothing

   • Painting/finishing options for kid crafts

6. Care & Maintenance

   • Cleaning the printer bed

   • Storing filament properly

   • Checking belts and nozzles for wear

🔹 Lesson Goals

• Introduce the most common 3D printing file formats (STL, OBJ).

• Teach how slicing software (like PrusaSlicer or Ultimaker Cura) works.

• Show how to adjust settings that affect print quality, speed, and strength.

• Give participants the confidence to prepare and troubleshoot their own prints.

🔹 What Participants Learn

1. What is Slicing?

   • Turning a 3D model (STL) into printer instructions (G-code).

   • Why different printers need different slicer settings.

2. Exploring the Interface

   • Tour of a slicer program (PrusaSlicer or Cura).

   • Importing an STL file into the software.

   • Rotating, scaling, and placing objects on the virtual print bed.

3. Basic Print Settings

   • Layer height: how thin or thick each layer of plastic is.

   • Infill: how solid or hollow the print will be.

   • Supports: what they are and when to use them.

   • Print speed vs. quality tradeoffs.

4. Filament Settings

   • How temperature affects PLA and other common filaments.

   • Bed temperature and adhesion options (glue stick, tape, PEI sheets).

5. Preview & Export

   • Using “preview mode” to see each layer before printing.

   • Exporting the file to G-code.

   • Sending the file to the printer (via SD card, USB, or OctoPrint).

6. Troubleshooting in the Slicer

   • What to do if a file is too large for your print bed.

   • Fixing floating objects or overhangs.

   • Common beginner mistakes (wrong filament settings, forgetting supports).

🔹 Hands-On Activity

• Each participant downloads a free STL file (e.g., keychain or toy).

• Walkthrough of slicing the file step by step.

• Everyone exports G-code and either sends it to a printer or does a simulated “dry run” in preview mode.