Travels in 3D land

I have for some years wanted to 'get into 3d printing' but as I am 75 a bit intimidated at the thought of having to master the software needed. None the less last July I bought a machine.

I live in high rise condo, somewhat in space so my 3d printer would have to meet certain criteria.

1. small
2. quiet
3. odorless
4. pre-built
5. not too expensive

These criteria ruled out most every thing but a small FDM ( Fused Deposition Modeling) printer

image from bitfab.io

and ultimatly a Tevo Michelangelo

This machine is almost unknown but all the reviews were good and was said to be quiet. I bought one and have been quite happy with it since.

I downloaded some 3D models from websites like Thiniverse

https://www.thingiverse.com/

and had fun getting all the leveling and nozzle heights set up and printing.

my cubby hole printer set-up

Example of Thiniverse printable model

Over the years I have tried a few 3D modeling and drafting programs with little success but stumbled upon Onshape.

https://www.onshape.com/

Now this application I could understand and found the interface so intuitive I could actually make things that looked really good.

I hope to get some free booze from these guys

Then I tackled Meshmixer

http://www.meshmixer.com/

This was not a intuitive as onshape but with a little sweat was able to make this

https://pinshape.com/items/55760-3d-printed-baby-seal

Not too bad for a five month journey to a fantastic new hobby.