Slicing 3D Print Files

Model sliced in Cura

You have found or created a 3D model and saved it as an .stl file. The next step is to slice the file into layers that the 3D printer will follow when creating your object.

and install or open Cura . We must use an older edition at the school
On first install, you'll need to set up the machine. Choose PrintrBot, then Play when prompted
Download settings file here. (It is safe; I made it)
Go to "File," select "Open Profile," then locate the settings file you downloaded
Layer height should be .26
Shell thickness is always set to multiples of the nozzle size (.4 mm in this case), so reduce to .8mm
Reduce fill density to 10%
Support type should be "Everywhere"
Platform adhesion type should say "Brim"
Click your model, then play with the three tools on the bottom. The middle one scales the model
Pay attention to the time it will take to print your model; 30 minutes is fine. If it takes much longer, scale the file down. If it is really short, scale it up
With the model selected, click View Mode in the top right, and choose Layer
This shows the layers created by the slicer. Can you read the letters? If not, scale up your badge. If you scale it to the max and still can't read it, rebuild the badge with larger text
Press the save button on the middle top, and name your file with your name, a description, and the color you want, e.g. paul badge black.gcode

Next up: Using OctoPrint