-What Is 3D Printing?

Simply, 3D printing is a method of creating a solid physical object from a digital 3D model. The reason it's called 3D "printing" is because the assembly process is similar to way you would print ink on paper. Most popular 3D printers are "extrusion printers," (meaning they spray their material out of maneuverable nozzles) where base material—usually thermoplastic filament—are laid down in layers that eventually create the finished product. 3D printing is an "additive" process, which means that the object is created by adding layers from bottom up, with each layer being printed on top of the last one over and over until the job is done. 3D printing has actually been around for a long time, mostly in industrial settings. Like any technology though, the hardware got smaller and cheaper and the software required got easier to use over time. We even have a Lifehacker Night School on 3D modeling. 3D printers—while still expensive—are cheaper than they've ever been, and work with a variety of 3D modeling programs. They've become extremely popular for people who want to make their own custom products and parts, like the DIY and maker communities.