November 2024
Fort Bend County Libraries offers free classes on the use of its 3D printers every month. Learn about free websites that can be used to find 3D files that are already created and about other resources that help you create your own designs.
Classes will take place at the following locations in December, but those who are interested may also inquire about this resource at any time at any of the FBCL locations that offer 3D printing: Cinco Ranch Branch Library, Fulshear Branch Library, George Memorial Library (Richmond), Mamie George Branch (Stafford), Mission Bend Branch Library, Missouri City Branch Library, and Sienna Branch Library.
Attendees are encouraged to create an account with Tinkercad prior to the class.
The schedule of classes is as follows:
- December 3, 2:00-3:00 pm -- Sienna Branch Library, Missouri City
- “3D Printing: SD & Micro SD Card Holder” - Library staff will introduce the 3D printer, demonstrate how to design a holder for SD and micro SD cards, and explain how library users can print their own designs. Designs created in this class will be printed and available for pickup later in the week. This class is for teens and adults. Registration required; click here to register.
- December 4, 4:00-5:00 pm -- Sienna Branch Library, Missouri City.
- “Midde School STEM: 3D Printing an Ornament” - Library staff will introduce the 3D printer, demonstrate how to design a holiday ornament, and explain how library users can print their own designs. Designs created in this class will be printed and available for pickup later in the week. This class is for children in grades 4-8. Registration required; click here to register.
About FBCL’s 3D-Printing Services
The 3D printers yield many benefits to the community, such as providing opportunities for children to experiment with new high-tech tools, encouraging new technology-based innovation in small business, and helping people of all ages build cutting-edge skills for the evolution of the digital age.
3D printing is the process of making an actual physical object from a 3-dimensional digital design. FBCL’s PolyPrinter 229 3D printers use PLA (polylactic acid) thermoplastic filament, which is a non-toxic biodegradable material.
Some 3D-design software options that people can use to design objects include Tinkercad, Blender, SketchUp, and AutoDesk 123d – Catch or Design. Design resources also include websites like Thingiverse, YouMagine, and My Mini Factory.
The PolyPrinter 229 3D printers are available for use by anyone with a valid Fort Bend County Libraries card or a valid government-issued photo ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian when submitting a 3D print request.
Library users can bring print files in .stl format on a flash drive to the library. Library staff will be the ones to actually print the object. A fee of $0.20 per gram of filament used will be charged, with a $1.00 minimum.
Small items can take as little as 20 minutes to print, while other items can take much longer. Projects printed at the libraries have a 5-hour print time maximum. The 3D printers can print objects up to 8” wide x 8” high x 8” deep. Designs must be copyright-free or the patron must have license authorization.
FBCL's 3D printers may not be used to create material that is: prohibited by local, state or federal law, material that is unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others, including weapons.