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• 3D Printing Basics: Best Beginner Course, Best Detailed Beginner Course, Best Tips and Tricks, Also Great Beginner Course
• Special Uses: Metal 3D Printing, 3D Printer Maintenance, Build Your Own 3D Printer

In 2019, I visited the Australian Institute of Marine Science in north Queensland. As well as dozens of large tanks and aquariums with myriad experiments relating to the welfare of the Great Barrier Reef, the lab also had several 3D printers. Our guide happily explained different uses of the printers and we saw some in action as they printed various components. I found them fascinating!

In the five years since, 3D printing has rapidly expanded. 3D printers are now used for a wide range of objects, made from many types of material. And costs have gone down! From a price tag of around $300,000 in the 1980s, you can now buy a printer for just a few hundred dollars. The range of filaments is constantly growing, too.

For this Best Courses Guide (BCG), I’ve handpicked the best 3D printing courses for beginners and more experienced users, as well as how to build and maintain your own 3D printer. And check out the More Resources section below.

Click on the shortcuts for more details:

• Top Picks
• Can Anyone Take up 3D Printing?
• What is 3D Printing Used For?
• Courses Overview
• More Resources
• Why You Should Trust Us
• How We Made Our Picks and Tested Them

Here are our top picks

Click on one to skip to the course details:

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What is 3D Printing Used For?

Most 3D printers create items by melting filaments and depositing them in very thin layers, using a template to create the 3D object. Templates (models) are made by designers by copying real objects, modifying existing designs, or designing from scratch with 3D modeling software.

Machine parts, medical and dental devices and prostheses, architecture, fashion, accessories, the list goes on. It’s a cost-effective way of producing prototypes and customized items. Want a 3D selfie?

While many 3D printed items are made out of various types of plastics and polymers, a wide range of materials can be used including metal and food. And the list is getting longer as new filaments are developed.

Note: It’s illegal to print patented items as well as other normally illegal things such as undetectable firearms or bombs.

Can Anyone Take up 3D Printing?

Reduced costs have made 3D printing accessible to many more people, but several steps are involved. Take heart, though, you can focus on some aspects and outsource the others if you prefer:

• Create a virtual model with 3D software such as AutoCAD, Blender, Ultimaker Cura, Autodesk Fusion 360, or similar. You can even use Photoshop!
• Slice your virtual model with slicing software so the item can be created layer by layer in the 3D printer. Some of the above software include slicing
• Make your 3D item with a 3D printer
• Finish and paint your model as required.

While some courses in this BCG focus on using the 3D printer, others cover the whole process. If you prefer software design over hands-on making items, you can specialize in the designing aspects and send your designs away for the actual printing. Or if you’re more interested in using a 3D printer without spending time making your own designs, download free or paid models from a 3D library.

But creating and making a design uniquely yours is very satisfying, even if you hit some speedbumps along the way.

Courses Overview

• 4 courses are free or free to audit and 3 are paid
• 4 courses offer a certificate of completion
• The 3D Printing subject is followed by 8.1K learners on Class Central

Best 3D Printing Course (Udemy)

Are you a beginner keen to learn about the world of 3D printing? 3D Printing: From Start to Finish offers a complete journey through its history, techniques, and practical applications. Learn the whole process to create and refine your own 3D printed items.

In this course, you’ll:

• Trace the history and evolution of 3D printing, from inception to modern applications
• Learn essential techniques for achieving high-quality prints, including file preparation and slicer utilization
• Master post-processing methods to enhance the final appearance of prints
• Overcome common technical challenges encountered by beginners
• Engaging and informative, this course blends theory with practical skills to empower learners in their 3D printing pursuits.

“Perfect course to introduce 3D printing to an absolute beginner. Great overview, without getting lost in the myriads of paths inherent in 3D printing. I have already recommended this course to several of my fellow newbies!” – S.M.,Udemy learner.

Best Detailed 3D Printing Course (University of Illinois)

Are you looking to innovate in your current role or embark on a new hobby or professional journey? 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing is a comprehensive specialization offered by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, in partnership with Ultimaker and Autodesk. It’s designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the field of 3D printing through a blend of academic insights and industry expertise. You’ll engage in a journey from understanding the basics of 3D printing to applying these concepts in real-world scenarios, so you can turn your creative ideas into tangible objects.

The five courses teach:

• The 3D Printing Revolution: The fundamentals of 3D printing technology and its revolutionary impact
• 3D Printing Applications: Practical applications of 3D printing across different industries
• 3D Printing Software: How to use leading 3D modeling software to design and prepare objects for printing
• 3D Printing Hardware: In-depth knowledge of desktop 3D printing hardware
• 3D Printing Capstone: Hands-on experience through a capstone project that integrates your learning.

“This is a great intro course to 3D printing. Even if you’re already somewhat familiar with the 3D printing process, the class introduces you to many 3D printing applications you may not have heard of. And if you’re completely new to the topic, it covers the basics…” – review of the first course by Anonymous.

Best Free 3D Printing Tips and Tricks Course (MakeWithTech)

3D Printing Tips for Beginners and Experts is a treasure trove of insights for beginners and experts in the 3D printing realm. Drawing from three years of experience and the review of 15 different 3D printers, the course distills essential tips and lessons into 10 short segments. Irv Shapiro’s extensive experience and knowledge in 3D printing technology shine through, ensuring you’ll gain practical, real-world insights. The course also provides valuable resources and tools for further exploration and learning in 3D printing. Find related resources here and also check the MakeWithTech YouTube channel.

What you’ll learn:

• Understanding the differences and applications of FDM and resin 3D printers
• Insights into the importance of manual bed leveling and printer calibration
• Knowledge about various types of filaments and their uses
• Practical tips for maintaining a 3D printer for optimal performance.

Other useful 3D printing courses on the MakeWithTech channel include:

• How to Buy a 3D Printer (42 mins)
• 3D Printer File Formats Explained (32 mins)
• 3D Printer Maintenance, Extruder Steps, and PID Calibration (31 mins)

“Thanks Irv. I have been 3d printing printing for a few years but I always learn something new when I watch your videos (even the basic info ones). You do an excellent job making tech stuff easy to understand. Your step by step instructions are invaluable. Keep up the good work!” – davebarkerdesign, YouTube learner.

Also Great 3D Printing Basics Course (LinkedIn Learning)

If you’re intrigued by the idea of creating physical objects from digital designs, Learning 3D Printing is the perfect starting point for you. This concise course is designed to introduce beginners to the fundamentals of 3D printing. Kacie Hultgren, an experienced designer with a deep understanding of 3D printing technologies, guides you through the process. The course is ideal for novices eager to dive into 3D printing and designers looking to apply their modeling skills in the 3D printing marketplace. With a focus on practical skills, this course ensures you’re well-equipped to start your 3D printing journey.

In this course, you’ll learn:

• The basics of 3D printing, including its history and what you can create with it
• An overview of commercial 3D printing technologies and how to choose the right printer
• Essential 3D design tools and techniques, including scanning, filament-based printing, laser sintering, solid and mesh modeling
• How to repair and prepare designs for printing using netfabb Studio.

Kacie Hultgren also teaches Designing a Replacement Part using 3D printing (1 hour)

“Helpful” – K.T.A., LinkedIn Learning learner.

Best Metal 3D Printing Course (LinkedIn Learning)

In Additive Manufacturing: Metal 3D Printing, learners are introduced to cost-effective methods of metal additive manufacturing, focusing on filament-based techniques and the entire workflow from design to post-processing. The short course covers lower-cost metal 3D printing overviews, the processes, material considerations, and pros and cons compared to other technologies. It also delves into design considerations including resolution, shrinkage, isotropy, post-sintering treatment, and the use of specialty materials. It addresses the decision-making process between outsourcing and in-house production and is perfect for hobbyists, designers, and small business owners interested in adopting metal 3D printing technologies affordably and efficiently.

What learners will gain from this course:

• Understanding of budget-friendly metal 3D printing techniques, focusing on filament-based methods
• Knowledge of the entire metal 3D printing process, including debinding, sintering, and post-processing
• Insights into design considerations specific to metal additive manufacturing
• Guidance on choosing between outsourcing and in-house production, including technology selection
• Awareness of alternatives to metal for 3D printing, including composites, high-temperature polymers, and ceramics.

Other courses by Joan Horvath and Rich Cameron include:

Additive Manufacturing: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques (6 hours)

Additive Manufacturing: Materials for 3D Printing (2 hours)

Additive Manufacturing: Troubleshoot 3D Prints (2-3 hours)

Best Course on Maintaining Your 3D Printer (Udemy)

New to the innovative 3D printing field? 3D Printing Workshop. How to use and maintain a 3D Printer requires no prior experience with 3D printers. The instructor shares a wealth of knowledge, ensuring you receive expert guidance on all you need to get started, keep your 3D printer in top shape, and make the most out of your 3D printing projects.

What you’ll learn:

• The fundamentals of 3D printing technology
• Step-by-step guidance on using a 3D printer
• Practical tips for maintaining your 3D printer to ensure longevity and optimal performance.

Best Course on Building Your Own 3D Printer (Dr. D-Flo)

If you’re interested in building a 3D printer from open-sourced parts, then How to Build a 3D Printer – The Ultimate Guide is for you. It’s designed to simplify the complex process of assembling a 3D printer, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts. Dr. D-Flo expertly breaks down the fundamentals of fused filament fabrication (FFF) and covers essential components. This course also includes references to Dr. D-Flo’s dedicated webpage for further exploration. Whether you’re inspired by the Zidex printer design or looking to create something unique, this course provides all the necessary knowledge and tips to embark on your 3D printer building journey.

What learners will gain from this course:

• Understanding the fundamentals of fused filament fabrication (FFF) and its components
• Guidance on selecting the right parts for a custom 3D printer design
• Step-by-step instructions on assembling a 3D printer, including linear rails, stepper motors, and extruders
• Insights into calibration, firmware updates, and dual extrusion techniques for advanced printing capabilities.

Dr. D-Flo can also teach you digital fabrication techniques including how to build your own large-format 3D printer in several steps:

Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Pellet Extruder (26 mins)

Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Motion (28 mins)

Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Electrical (38 mins)

Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Printing (27 mins)

Building a Large Format 3D Printer – Upgrades! (41 mins)

“I’m a mechanical engineering student and I love your videos. They are so accurate and helpful…” – bysmty, YouTube learner.

More Resources

Like many pieces of equipment, your 3D printer may need maintenance from time to time. Keep it in good shape with the help of various tools:

• 3DBenchy is the “Hello, World!” of 3D printing. Benchy, designed in 2015 by Creative Tools, is a great starter print that can help with your initial setup or diagnose issues with your printer. It’s considered to be the most 3D printed object, with more than 2 million downloads of the design by 2020
• Calibration test models. Diagnose temperature, size, and alignment issues. If you’re just starting out, take a look at Tom’s Hardware test prints, or for some more complex tests, try All3DP
• How can you tell if your printer needs cleaning or adjusting or if a part is actually worn? This handy guide from LinkedIn can help
• Ask your 3D printing questions on the Reddit subforum r/3Dprinting

Why You Should Trust Us

Class Central, a Tripadvisor for online education, has helped 60 million learners find their next course. We’ve been combing through online education for more than a decade to aggregate a catalog of 200,000 online courses and 200,000 reviews written by our users. And we’re online learners ourselves: combined, the Class Central team has completed over 400 online courses, including online degrees. I’ve personally completed over 200 online courses in a variety of topics.

How We Made Our Picks and Tested Them

Trying to find “the best” can be daunting, even for those of us who live and breathe online courses. Here’s how I approached this task.

First, I combed through Class Central’s Catalog and the internet to find a variety of free and paid open courses, some with certificates.

When choosing courses, I considered the following factors:

• Instructor experience: I sought instructors with extensive experience in 3D printing and engaging presentation styles
• Popularity: I checked numbers of enrollments and views to find popular courses
• Course content: I examined courses that covered a range of sub-topics and teaching styles, both basic and more advanced. I watched some course videos to sample the courses
• Learner reviews: I read learner reviews (when available) to get a sense of the quality of each course, leveraging the Class Central database with its thousands of course ratings and reviews written by our users as well as available course provider reviews.

Then, I defined the scope for these recommendations. I chose top courses from a range of aspects of 3D printing.

Ultimately, I used a combination of data and my own judgment to make these picks. I’m confident these recommendations will be a reliable way to learn about 3D printing.