Embedded Files
We want our machines to continue to operate well for all users, so please read this carefully before using them. If you have any doubts, please ask a Tenzer staff member or intern.
We want our machines to continue to operate well for all users, so please read this carefully before using them. If you have any doubts, please ask a Tenzer staff member or intern.
Getting a 3D Model
💻 Download a 3D model (.stl extension) from the Internet. We recommend Printables, Thingiverse, and Cults3D; however, if this is your first time printing in the Tenzer Maker Lab, please start with our proven and quick example test prints.
🔧 Make your own 3D model. There are many software options available for creating 3D models ranging from beginner-friendly to professional-grade. The best choice depends on your skill level and the complexity of the object you want to design.
Tinkercad: A great choice for beginners. This is a free, web-based software with a simple interface. It's perfect for quickly creating simple models.
Fusion 360: A more advanced, professional-level software and is ideal for designing functional objects. Register using your depauw email for free use.
Blender: A free and open-source 3D creation suite. While it has a steeper learning curve, it's incredibly powerful for creating artistic and organic models
Example model page from Printables
Setting Up Cura LulzBot Edition
Cura LulzBot Edition is a slicer—specialized software that prepares 3D models for printing. When you design or download a 3D object, it exists as a digital model (usually in STL or OBJ format). 3D printers can’t read these models directly. A slicer like Cura translates the model into G-code, which is a detailed set of step-by-step instructions that tells the printer exactly how to build the object layer by layer.
🖥️ General Setup (First Time Use)
In the Maker Lab, we use two types of printers: LulzBot Workhorse+ and LulzBot Mini 2.
Before you can print, you’ll need to configure Cura with the correct printer profile. This ensures Cura sends the instructions and settings for the specific printer you’re using.
⚙️ LulzBot Workhorse+ Setup
In the printer list, select Workhorse(+).
Under Tool Head | Nozzle Ø | Nozzle Material, choose METEOR 285 | Nickel-Plated Brass
⚙️ LulzBot Mini 2 Setup
In the printer list, select Mini 2.
Under Tool Head | Nozzle Ø | Nozzle Material, choose METEOR 285 | Nickel-Plated Brass
Once configured, Cura will load the correct settings for your chosen printer. You’re now ready to slice 3D models and prepare them for printing on the Maker Lab’s printers!
Preparing Your Model In Cura LE
Loading Your 3D Model (.stl)
In the top-left corner, you will see a green folder icon 📁. Click this icon.
A file browser window will appear. Navigate to the location on your computer where your .stl file is saved.
Select the .stl file you want to print and click Open.
Your 3D model will now be displayed on the virtual build plate in Cura.
💡 Tip: You can also drag & drop the model if it's on the desktop!
Setting Up the Print Profile
After loading your model, choose a print profile from the dropdown in the right-side settings panel. Cura provides a variety of pre-defined profiles to get you started:
Ultra Detailed (0.1 mm): Best surface quality and fine details; very slow.
Detailed / Rapid Detailed (0.2 mm): Good balance of quality and speed; most common choice..
Standard / Rapid Standard (0.3 mm): Faster prints with more visible layer lines; great for prototypes.
High Speed / Rapid High Speed (0.4 mm): Fastest, lowest quality; use for large drafts.
If you are not satisfied with the pre-defined profiles. You can play with advance settings to better suit you need. More detail can be find in the General Knowledge section.
3D Model Orientation and Slicing in Cura
Orient the Model: Proper orientation is critical to a strong, efficient print. Good orientation reduces print time, saves material, and minimizes supports.
Left-click your model on the build plate to activate the manipulation tools (left toolbar).
Rotate Tool (Shortcut: R)
Press the third tool on the left.
Three colored rings (X, Y, Z axes) will appear. Click and drag to rotate.
For precision, enter rotation values in the lower-left panel.
Move Tool (Shortcut: T)
Press the first tool on the left.
Use the arrows to drag the model or enter X/Y values directly.
X:0, Y:0 = center of the build plate.
Bottom button: Snap model flat to the plate.
Center button: Move model to the plate center.
Slicing the Model: With your model oriented and a print profile selected, you’re ready to slice. This process converts the model into thin layers and generates the G-code for your printer.
Click Slice (bottom-right). Processing time varies by model size and computer speed.
Once complete, the button displays a summary:
Estimated Print Time
Filament Usage (length and weight)
💡 Tip: Check the label on the side of your filament spool to estimate how much material you have left before starting the print.
Saving the G-Code File to the SD Card
After Cura has finished slicing your model, you'll see a button in the bottom right corner of the screen that allows you to save the resulting file.
Take an SD card from the printer and insert it into your computer. You can use one of the SD card readers provided by the Maker Lab. Look for the "MEMORY CARDS" drawer (closest to the entrance).
Once the SD card is successfully plugged in and your computer recognizes it, the "Save to Disk" button in Cura will automatically change to "Save to Removable Drive." Click this button. Cura will save the G-code file directly to the SD card.
Your 3D model is now ready! You've successfully sliced it and prepared the G-code. It's time to send it to the printer and watch your creation come to life!
Preparing the Printer + Starting the Print
⚠️ Things to Check Before Printing
1) Make sure the print bed is clear—remove any debris or filament blobs.
2) Double-check that the printer selected in Cura matches the actual printer you are using. Using the wrong G-code file can permanently damage the machine.
3) Verify there is enough filament on the spool for the entire print.
4) Ensure the filament is properly loaded into the extruder. Pull on the filament near the tool head—if there’s resistance, it’s loaded correctly. If it slides out easily, switch to another printer or ask a Tenzer Associate or Intern for help.
5) Confirm the bed surface is flat and aligned. The rear corners of the flexible build plate should sit flush with the silver spacers in the back corners.
Choosing Your File From the Printer
Insert the SD card into the slot on the left side of the printer. Using the knob, select Print from Media (tap the status screen, then scroll down) and choose your file.
Before printing begins, the machine will run a start-up sequence, this envolve heating up the nozzle and bed, then drawing a purge line to ensure smooth filament flow. This is normal and helps the first layer stick.
Once the purge is complete, the printer will begin laying down the first layer of your model. Be sure to monitor this stage carefully, as proper first-layer adhesion is critical for a successful print. We recommend watching for at least the first 10–30 minutes.
After Printing
⚠️ If You Don’t See Your Print on the Machine
The print failed and was stopped early to avoid wasting filament. In this case, a note will be left near the printer.
The print finished successfully and has been removed by the interns. Completed models are placed on the shelf near the middle column of the Maker Lab.
If Your Print is Completed but still on the Bed
Allow the bed to cool down before removal (45C on the status screen). Cooling helps the model release more easily and prevents damage to the surface.
To remove your print, gently bend the magnetic bed using the green handles. Usually, this is enough for the model to pop off. If not, remove the entire plate and use both hands to flex it evenly from opposite sides for more leverage without damaging the print or bed.
After removal, return the magnetic plate to the printer and ensure it sits flat and aligned for the next user. If you encounter difficulties, don’t force the print off—ask for assistance instead.
Page updated
Report abuse