3D Printing at Loveland CreatorSpace

Loveland CreatorSpace provides a dedicated 3D printing area equipped with four Bambu Lab printers and a streamlined workflow designed for reliability, low maintenance, and ease of use. This page explains how to use the equipment safely, responsibly, and effectively.

1. Available Equipment

Loveland CreatorSpace operates four Bambu Lab printers, each with a unique name for easy identification:

• A1 w/ AMS — “Janet”

• A1 w/ AMS — “Bambi”

• A1 Mini — “Xorp”

• P1S — “Prints Charming”

All printers are configured for Bambu PLA only to ensure consistent results and minimize maintenance.

We also provide:

• Two slicing workstations running Bambu Studio

• Filament storage cabinet stocked with approved Bambu PLA

• Post‑processing tools (scrapers, pliers, flush cutters, deburring tools, etc.)

2. Material Policy (PLA‑Only)

To keep maintenance low and ensure reliable performance:

✔️ Only Bambu PLA may be used on CreatorSpace printers.

Please do not load PETG, ABS, TPU, or any other material into these machines.

This policy:

• Prevents nozzle wear

• Avoids temperature‑related failures

• Keeps AMS units functioning properly

• Reduces clogs, jams, and bed adhesion issues

• Ensures predictable print quality for all members

Need other materials?

Some members have personal printers at home and are happy to help with:

• PETG

• TPU

• ABS/ASA

• Nylon

• Exotic filaments (CF, glow, woodfill, etc.)

Ask in Slack or speak with an area lead if you need prints in non‑PLA materials.

3. Required Training

Before using any 3D printer, members must:

• Complete the 3D Printing Orientation

• Learn proper slicing workflow in Bambu Studio

• Understand filament loading, AMS operation, and bed preparation

• Demonstrate safe operation and first‑layer monitoring

Training ensures safe operation and reduces wear on shared equipment.

4. Safety Rules

General Safety

Stay with the printer until the first layer is fully complete.

• A successful first layer is the strongest predictor of a successful print.

• Keep hands clear of hot components (hotend, heated bed).

• Do not modify printer settings that affect other users.

• Keep the area clean and free of filament scraps.

• Report damaged nozzles, failed prints, or unusual noises.

No Resin Printing

Loveland CreatorSpace does not operate resin printers.

5. Slicing Workflow

Use the two slicing workstations provided near the printers.

Software

• Bambu Studio (required for all CreatorSpace printers)

Guidelines

• Select the correct printer profile (Janet, Bambi, Xorp, or Prints Charming).

• Verify AMS slot colors if printing multi‑color.

• Use standard PLA profiles unless you have a specific need.

• Avoid extreme speeds or temperatures.

6. Reserving a Printer

To help everyone share the printers fairly, please post a quick message in Slack → #3d_printers when you begin a print.

Include:

• Which printer you’re using (Janet, Bambi, Xorp, or Prints Charming)

• How long you expect your print to run

Example:

“Using Janet — print will run about 3 hours.”

This helps other members plan their time and avoid conflicts.

7. Starting a Print

1. Inspect the printer for leftover filament, debris, or damage.

2. Load Bambu PLA and verify AMS slot assignment (if applicable).  If you need to change colors, please follow the Filament Spool Handling & Color Changes procedure.

3. Clean the build plate with a dry paper towel.  If you are having problems getting your first layer to stick, clean the build plate with a small amount of dish soap and water.

4. Start the print from Bambu Studio or the printer interface.

5. Stay with the printer until the first layer is complete.

6. Watch for adhesion issues, warping, or spaghetti‑style failures.

If the first layer fails, stop the print immediately and restart.

8. After Your Print

• Allow the print to cool before removal.

• Remove the print gently using the provided tools.

• Clean the build plate.

• Remove filament if you are done using the printer.

• Dispose of failed prints in the designated bin.

• Leave the area clean for the next member.

9. Post‑Processing Tools

We provide basic tools for finishing your prints:

• Scrapers

• Flush cutters

• Pliers

• Deburring tools

• Sandpaper

Please return tools to their proper location after use.

10. Common Problems & Troubleshooting

• Poor first layer → Clean bed, adjust Z offset, restart print

• Stringing → Lower temperature, increase retraction

• Under‑extrusion → Check filament path, AMS, or nozzle

• Warping → Clean bed, add brim, restart

• AMS misfeeds → Re‑seat filament, check spool tension

If you cannot resolve an issue, stop the print and notify an area lead.

11. Respecting Shared Equipment

• Do not monopolize printers for long multi‑day prints without approval.

• Follow the Ask Before You Touch policy.   If another member's print is still on the printer bed complete, consider using another printer, using another bed, or contacting the member that owns that print.

• Do not load non‑PLA materials.

• Treat the equipment as if it were your own.

12. Let's talk models

• How to Obtain 3D Models

• How to Create Your Own 3D Models

• How to Choose the Right 3D Modeling Software

• Learn Tinkercad Basics

• Learn Onshape Basics

• Learn Fusion 360 Basics

• Learn Intermediate Fusion 360

• Learn Blender Basics

• Learn OpenSCAD Basics

• Learn about Post-Processing for 3D Prints

13. Need Help?

Contact the 3D Printing Area Lead or ask in Slack for assistance, training, or troubleshooting.