Create templates for 3D printers - how it works

You can easily create templates for a 3D printer. All you need is a CAD program and Slic3r.

How to create templates for the 3D printer

First of all, you need a CAD program with which you can create a 3D model of the object that you want to print out.

• Solid Edge or Solid Works is best recommended. Alternatively, you can also use the 3D Builder from Microsoft.
• When creating the 3D model, you can either create a two-dimensional drawing and then extrude it, or draw directly in 3D. It is important that you have no over-defined and under-defined edges. This means that the shape in your drawing should be completed and have no gaps, but also that the shape has no lines drawn through several times.
• Then export the 3D model as an STL file. Now you can use the Slic3r software to convert the model into a G code. Simply import the 3D model and click on "Slice with Slic3r". Some 3D printers have already included software in which the Slic3r is already integrated. For example, you can also slice the 3D model directly in Repetier Host. Slicing converts the model into a G-code, i.e. a code that tells the 3D printer which positions it has to go to.
• Tip: Activate the "Generate Support Material" checkbox in the "Support Material" tab in the Slic3r settings. You can also print figures with excess height.