Design A 3d Printed Object

Before starting to 3D print, you will need to make sure you have gathered all the necessary software "ingredients" that will guide you through the printing process, from preparing your 3D model to managing printers themselves.

These include:

CAD software to create a 3D model (you can also use an existing 3D model, if you do not wish or need to design one)
Slicing software
Software to operate your printer remotely (this is optional, but can be convenient)

This article will go through each of these ingredients, and will also touch on how the Ultimaker platform creates a seamless end-to-end flow between hardware, software, and materials, empowering you to unlock the magic of 3D printing and make innovation happen.

What is a "slicer"?

A 3D printing slicer – also known as slicing or print preparation software – is a program that converts a 3D model into a language your 3D printer understands.

Slicing software, such as Ultimaker Cura, digitally cuts a model into flat layers, which your printer can then print one by one. With the Ultimaker platform, however, slicing software is not always needed, thanks to integrations that allow you to print directly from CAD or the Ultimaker Digital Library.

Get-started-with-Ultimaker-Cura-thumbnail — Preparing a 3D print using Ultimaker Cura software

What is the best CAD software to design 3D prints?

CAD, or computer-aided design, software enables you to design a 3D model from the ground, up. There are many types of CAD software, each with its own benefits. AutoCAD, created by Autodesk, is perhaps the best-known among them since it was one of the first CAD software programs available for personal computers when released in 1982. Other CAD platforms include:

Fusion360 – great for designing and creating efficient mechanical parts
3ds Max – used in all types of 3D model creation, including video game design, architecture, and 3D printing
TinkerCAD – A free, browser-based CAD tool that allows users to build 3D models out of various shapes. Popular with CAD novices and for STEAM education
Blender – free, open-source 3D model creation software
Siemens NX – for designing and creating advanced 3D models
Solidworks – for designing and creating professional parts for industrial use
Catia – Advanced design software used for creating surfaces and engineering systems

Before you begin 3D printing, be sure to do your research and pick the CAD software that's right for your use case. This way, you'll get the most out of the model you choose to design and print.

Also check which file types your slicing software is compatible with, so you can make your 3D designs into 3D prints.

NavVis-VLX-designers-used-rapid-prototyping-validate-cad-designs-Ultimaker-Cura — A design in CAD software (left screen), slicing software (right), and the finished print

How to design parts for 3D printing?

When designing for 3D printing, there are best practices to help you get the best results from your 3D printer and the parts it creates. Design parts optimized for 3D printing will improve print success rates, reduce costs through lower wastage, and boost the speed of your product development cycle.

Consider build volume. Your 3D prints can only be as large as your printer's build volume. Be sure to know its dimensions, then create a part that can either be printed within those dimensions in one go, or plan to use modularity (printing then combining separate parts).

Decide orientation early. Because FFF prints layer by layer, determining the print orientation early in the process helps drive design choices, text alignment, and snap features.

Evaluate overhang support requirements. FFF printed parts are self-supporting up to 45 degrees. Overhangs below 45 degrees must be supported from below with support material.

Follow bridging support guidelines. For most basic filaments, FFF printing does not need support when bridging materials within a 10 mm gap.

Pay attention to nozzle size. When designing small features, you should consider height, wall thickness, and nozzle size. Larger nozzles will print faster than smaller nozzles, but at a cost of increased minimum thickness and height for your models.

Design with hole diameters in mind. Generally, 3D printed hole features should not be smaller than 2 mm. If accurate holes are required, it is recommended to design the holes smaller than intended and post-process with a drilling operation.

Avoid sharp corners. Sharp corners can be modelled in CAD, but the print may warp. Increasing the area of the surface in contact with the bed will decrease the likelihood of the warpage.

For a deep dive into these factors and more, check out our blog on design for 3D printing.

What software do I need to start a 3D print?

This depends on how much of the 3D printing workflow you need to perform.

As long as you already have access to a 3D model, you will typically need software that can slice that model, so your printer can get to work. Once you have started to print, you can also use software to manager your 3D printer (or printers) remotely.

But as we saw earlier, the slicing step can be avoided if you have a 3D printer integration installed in your CAD tool. If you already have access to a 3D printable file (such as a G-code on a USB stick) you can also go ahead and print without the need for any slicing software, as your digital file is already ready to print.

Remote 3D printing — Controlling 3D printers remotely with Ultimaker Digital Factory software

Managing 3D printers remotely

Ultimaker S-line printers, the Ultimaker 2+ Connect, and the Ultimaker 3 can make use of a network connection to access cloud-based services on Ultimaker Digital Factory. By linking a printer to your Ultimaker account, your printer can then be controlled remotely, from outside of its local area network.

Want to learn more about 3D printing software?

Download our free white paper, "Important 3D printing software features," which will help you determine the best 3D printing software for your business needs, as well as examine settings, print profiles, and other features that can help you get the most out of your printing experience.

Get the white paper

Enjoy improvements that increase your print quality – for prints that look better than ever and increase your first-time right results.
- News
Almost half of greenhouse gas emissions come from the way we make and use things. How can 3D printing help us all to change this?
S-line firmware 7.0 brings improved status information, print controls, and notifications – enabling better control, more confidence, and efficiency.
- News
Ultimaker Cura 4.12 beta is here, and it's packed with quality improvements for print profiles – increasing first time right results and providing a polished experience.
- News
Missed the Ultimaker Showcase event? Read our roundup of the biggest announcements and updates to the Ultimaker platform.
- News
A 3D printer should be a long-term asset for your organization that delivers value for years after you buy it. So let's talk money and return on investment in this blog.
- Guide
What is the step-by-step process of using a 3D printer? Different 3D printing technologies share the same basic actions which we will cover in this blog.
- Guide
Manufacturers, engineers, designers, educators, medics, and hobbyists alike use 3D printing for a huge range of applications. Find out the main ones in this blog.
- Guide
Ultimaker Cura 4.11 is here, with updates that enhance the UI and Digital Library integration – and a new feature that will help you create smooth parts.
- News
Ultimaker Cura 4.11 beta is here, and with it an updated experience that accelerates 3D printing by providing users with a clearer, more streamlined workflow.
- News
Explore the the 5 principles of lean manufacturing and how leading brands have implemented them thanks to Ultimaker 3D printers.
- Trends
Catch up on the latest updates for Ultimaker Digital Factory, designed to help you drive innovation within your organization and beyond.
- News
Unlock the power to print high-strength applications with the Ultimaker print core CC, making use of multiple nozzle sizes and composites in the Ultimaker ecosystem.
- News
Take a first step into the world of ESD-safe 3D printing materials and applications with this introductory guide.
- Applications
Ultimaker Firmware 6.5 delivers enhanced material handling and troubleshooting procedures
- News
Ultimaker Cura 4.10 has arrived, with a big update for Ultimaker Professional and Excellence subscribers – and more improvements.
- News
Ultimaker software news roundup: See what's new and learn about an improved engineering workflow with Ultimaker Cura 4.10 beta.
- News
In a manufacturing environment, the right application can save you time and money – more than enough to justify the cost of a 3D printer.
- Applications
Enjoy a recap of Talking Additive season 3 so far – as well as at the excitement you can expect in your podcast feed in the coming weeks.
- News
To celebrate Ultimaker's 10th birthday, Talking Additive host Matt Griffin spoke to Ultimaker co-founder Siert Wijnia. Read some of the best bits from the interview, and discover where the journey goes next.
- News
Easy to use, versatile, and scalable, Ultimaker PETG enables you to standardize the way you work and make industrial applications happen.
- News
3D printing turns a digital model into a physical object – so software is an important ingredient. Read our guide on tools to design, prepare, and print parts.
- Guide
Start your search for the right 3D printing material. See how 3D printed parts can be used and how to print with some of the most common filaments.
- Applications
How 3D printing works, what it's used for, and all the costs involved. Everything you need to know to get started – in one guide.
- Guide
Whether start-up or a global enterprise, the Ultimaker platform gives you the edge over competition who rely on traditional manufacturing. Find the software plan that fits your needs.
- News
Leverage a library of parts, seamless workflow, and software support to scale 3D printing innovation across your organization, with a subscription plan for every need.
- News
Ultimaker Cura 4.9 is here! Download to experience slicing at its most seamless, thanks to new workflow integration with the Digital Library, plus print visualization improvements.
- News
The beta version of Ultimaker Cura 4.9 has landed. The release contains a bundle of feature improvements and bug fixes – including optimizations to print visualization.
- News
How has a pandemic year changed the uses of 3D printing? Which markets have most potential for adoption? Explore insights from our 3D Printing Sentiment Index.
- Trends
Take a first step into the world of flexible 3D printing materials with this beginner's guide.
- Applications
UItimaker Digital Factory has been updated, with features such as an improved printer dashboard page, detailed printer reporting, PIN code protection, and more!
- News
The Ultimaker Cura slicing algorithm has been enhanced with the Arachne code library. This fundamentally changes how Ultimaker Cura handles inner parts of a model. Try it now – and give us your feedback – in this beta version.
- News
Ultimaker's new CEO Jürgen von Hollen talks people, culture, and taking the Ultimaker ecosystem to the next level.
- Trends
Azoth LLC cofounder Cody Cochran touches on several ways that 3D printing is transforming (or has transformed) the manufacturing industry.
By rolling out a plan to 3D print in multiple locations, you'll soon enjoy a wealth of benefits, from increased productivity to cost savings.
- Applications
3D printing is enabling companies around the world to achieve results otherwise impossible in warehouses, assembly lines, and factories. Read on for real-world applications that such companies are leveraging to increase their productivity.
- Applications
Ultimaker firmware update 6.1 is here, featuring static IPs, an upgraded OS, and network and security improvements for Ultimaker S-line 3D printers.
- News
FFF is a 3D printing process that builds parts layer by layer. Learn the basics of the technology and how to understand the many types of printer and materials.
- Trends
Which is the stronger material – ABS or PLA? What temperatures can they withstand? Get these answers and more in our guide to when to use the two most common 3D printing filaments
- Applications
To get the best from your 3D printer, you need to be armed with the right tools for the job. From removing support material to improving build plate adhesion, here's a list of must-have tools, all designed to make your life easier.
- News
We are proud to announce the 2020 Ultimaker Innovators list. It is the first in what will become a yearly celebration of individuals and teams within the 3D printing community.
- News
From exciting new hardware and software products to responding to COVID-19, 2020 has been a challenging but productive year in 3D printing. Here's a look back at a few highlights.
3D printing is a fast, easy way to create prototypes in-house, and to manufacture tools and end-use products. See how different industries can benefit.
- Applications
Been busy? Take a look at the great content you may have missed in our monthly global webinars.
- News
- Applications
Take a first step into the world of tough and impact-resistant 3D printing materials with this beginner's guide.
- Applications
Featuring networking capabilities and a new touchscreen, the latest addition to the Ultimaker 3D printing portfolio will enable you to create a seamless 3D printing workflow that's perfect for small enterprises and educators.
- News
Ultimaker Essentials, our package of Ultimaker software tools, is now open for general access. Subscribe today to leverage the full power of the Ultimaker ecosystem.
- News
Ultimaker Cura 4.8 beta has landed. Download it now to experience several new features that enable you to enhance your print preparation.
- News
Take a first step into the world of stiff and strong materials with this beginner's guide.
- Applications
Couldn't your business benefit from a simpler supply chain? 3D printing offers a standalone production process for end-use and spare parts. Learn more here.
- Trends
Get the inside scoop on the Talking Additive podcast's Q&A with Matt Torosian, Jabil Additive's Director of Product Management.
- Applications
These tips will enable you to scale and put to use your 3D printers as efficiently and effectively as possible.
- Applications
This blog will examine the top misconceptions about additive manufacturing technology, as well as dispel any inaccuracies surrounding the topic, enabling you to make a clear, informed decision about 3D printing.
- Applications
Talking Additive, our 3D printing podcast, is back for a second season. When and where can you hear it? Who and what will be featured? Read on for all that and more!
- News
Take a look at several real-world examples of companies using 3D printing to maximize their ROI.
- Applications
Ultimaker's firmware update 5.8.0 is available now for the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle, Ultimaker S5, and Ultimaker S3. Once installed, you'll enjoy several improvements that will make your 3D printing experience as smooth as possible.
- News
Gain an understanding of the fundamentals of 3D printing with metal – as well as download a free white paper that further delves into the topic.
- Applications
Take a first step into the world of UV-resistant materials with this beginner's guide.
- Applications
Before choosing FFF 3D printing as a manufacturing method, you should understand the technology's best practices. This blog – and its accompanying webinar –showcases those practices, as well as compares FFF to other forms of manufacturing.
- Applications
Adding desktop 3D printing to your workflow can make a big difference – from creating concepts and prototypes for products to small batches of tooling, or even medical models for surgeons. Here's a look at 5 ways 3D printing can transform your business.
- Applications
Take a first step into the world of chemical-resistant materials with this beginner's guide.
- Applications
Meet our two new products designed to help organizations adopt and scale 3D printing – Ultimaker Essentials and Ultimaker 3D Printing Academy.
- News
There are many ways to optimize your chance at success for your 3D printed part. Here are a few tips on how to best prepare your print job files using Ultimaker Cura – as well as a webinar providing you with deeper knowledge.
- Applications
We don't yet fully know what this "new normal" will mean for the global economy. But it's clear that food and beverage manufacturers are facing bigger challenges than ever.
- Trends
Materials which reduce the likelihood of ignition or burning are vital in some 3D printing applications, from replacement parts to tooling.
- Applications
Built on years of innovation through our remote printing platforms, Ultimaker Digital Factory helps you to maximize 3D printing efficiency at scale.
- News
Take a first step into the world of support materials for 3D printing with this introductory guide.
- Applications
Read on for a few tips and ideas on creating the most effective home 3D printer work station.
- Trends
Take a first step into the world of temperature-resistant materials and applications with this introductory guide.
- Applications
Flexible 3D printing filaments offer a lot of possibilities for designers and engineers – from prototyping pliable features to creating custom tools.
- Applications
Take a first step into the world of wear-resistant materials and applications with this introductory guide.
- Applications
Our podcast series, Talking Additive, has officially launched. Read on more all the details.
- News
Ultimaker Cura 4.6 is live. Read on for details about new Intent profiles, plus a host of new features, security improvements, and more.
- News
Thousands of companies have implemented 3D printing into their day-to-day workflows, creating prototypes, tools, and end-use products. Read on to discover how technology holds the potential to transform industries. around the globe.
- Trends
Combined with 3D printing technology, the aerospace industry can improve efficiency, safety, comfort, and efficacy of aircraft at a fraction of the cost and time.
- Applications
In our third webinar, you'll get an up-close look at what makes the Ultimaker S5 Pro Bundle tick, from one of the minds behind its creation.
- News
In the final of our three-part series on 3D printing materials, we take a look at types of printing filament, additives and blends that give materials mechanical properties, as well as provide a brief overview as to filament production.
- Applications
If you use Ultimaker Cura, but don't send your print to an Ultimaker 3D printer, then you're missing out on a ton of functionality...
- News
Ultimaker Cura 4.5 is officially live. The latest version of Ultimaker's open-source slicing software offers useful new features, and coincides with the launch of the improved Ultimaker Marketplace.
- News
In part two of our three-part series on 3D printing materials, we take a look at material types, categories, and use cases – as well as a brief overview of composite and bio-based, biodegradable, and recycled materials.
- Applications
Check out the recap of our latest webinar, to learn how well-known manufacturers such as Ford are using 3D printing – and how your business can gain a competitive advantage by doing the same.
- News
Thanks to a new intuitive web interface for the Ultimaker Marketplace, users can now simply browse, search, and subscribe. There's no need to open Ultimaker Cura beforehand – downloaded plugins and print profiles will automatically be associated with your Ultimaker account upon logging in.
- News
In the recap of our first webinar, "The 3D printing mindset: How to choose the right composite material", we're offering an overview of what was covered, what was asked, and what's to come.
- News
In part one of our three-part series on 3D printing materials, dive into FFF 3D printing, get an overview of Ultimaker's material range, and learn about the importance of an open-filament system.
- Applications
The release of the Ultimaker S5 Material Station opens the door for a wide range of use cases. But how best to configure the materials contained within it?
- Applications
From innovative new products to inspiring success stories, 2019 has been an eventful and exciting year for 3D printing. Here's a look back at a few of the highlights.
- News
Partners of the Ultimaker Material Alliance are doing their part at furthering the 3D printing industry, from UL Blue Card-certification to ESD-safe material to metal-polymer composites.
- News
From rapid prototypes to end-use parts, 3D printing is a perfect addition to an engineer's workflow, in which wasted time is wasted money.
- Applications
Bringing 3D printing into your business is cost-efficient, convenient, and transformative. But it's important to understand and calculate your return on investment from the technology.
- News
Where is the biggest 3D printing growth potential in 2019? This blog reveals the results and methodology behind Ultimaker's first global 3D Printing Sentiment Index.
- Trends
All 3D printers require material to create a finished product. But with a wealth of materials available, knowing which one to choose can be bewildering.
- Applications
A partnership between Ultimaker and LEHVOSS Group is the beginning of a new level of 3D printing, lowering the barrier for industrial adoption.
- News
The impact of the Ultimaker Material Alliance was evident at K 2019, the world's premier trade fair for plastics and rubber.
- News
Concerned about air quality and 3D printer particle emissions? Check out this blog to learn the 6 factors that affect your indoor air quality when 3D printing.
- News
It's a common question. Which composite material is right for your 3D printing application? Carbon fiber or fiberglass? Check out this in-depth blog!
- Applications
The Ultimaker Marketplace, our digital distribution platform, has just hit a major milestone of 1 million downloads for plugins and print profiles combined. Ultimaker now has the largest compatible material choice in the entire 3D printing market.
- News
Big crowds, big announcements, and more – get the full photographic rundown of 2019's TCT Show.
- News
Composite-ready, dual extrusion, auto bed leveling, touchscreen. Learn how Ultimaker S3 delivers robust desktop 3D printing so you can start innovating faster.
- News
24/7 automated material handling, air filtration, filament humidity control. Find out how our unique 3D printing solution unlocks more demanding applications.
- News
Composite materials powerhouse Owens Corning explains why and how 3D printing can transform workflows
- Applications
From more 3D file formats to an easy selector for Z seam positions, here are six great features of Ultimaker Cura 4.3 beta
- News
Designing and creating a vehicle is hard work – but 3D printing can lighten the load
- Applications
With Ultimaker Cloud's latest feature, Teams, you can connect and collaborate with colleagues and control multiple groups of Ultimaker 3D printers.
- News
How is additive manufacturing changing the creation of molds and casts? From silicone molds to investment casting metal, check out this blog for inspiration.
- Applications
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- Trends
The rise of 3D printing means the technology is more accessible than ever, paving the way for creation, iteration, and innovation
- Trends
We took a look at how reviewers have been finding the latest addition to our range of desktop 3D printers - the Ultimaker S5
- News
If you want to increase efficiency, reduce production time and costs, or optimize product time-to-market, now is a perfect time to get started with 3D printing. This powerful technology has quickly become an essential industry tool, with its effectiveness
- Trends
Earlier this year, Ultimaker revealed a new desktop 3D printer, specifically for the professional environment – the Ultimaker S5. In this latest blog looking at how customers are using it, we explore how the printer's ease-of-use helps engineers and design
- Applications
We take a look back at our highlights and developments in 3D printing in 2018, including examples from leading innovators.
- News
we explore some of the ways they are using the Ultimaker S5 to develop better quality products and bring them to market faster
- Applications
To create the perfect 3D print, it's vital to have access to the right material, but it's also critical to use the right slicing settings. Preconfigured print profiles in Ultimaker Cura make...
- Applications
Formnext is the leading global exhibition and conference on additive manufacturing, and an annual fixture in our exhibition calendar. Held at Frankfurt Messe, Formnext brought together experts from a wide range of industry sectors, such as automotive, aer
- News
By meeting FDA regulatory guidelines, the Ultimaker S5 is the first FFF 3D printer to receive FDA 510(k) clearance.
- News
Contributing profiles to the Marketplace is an extremely effective way to broadcast materials to Ultimaker Cura's user base, which includes hundreds of engineers, designers, architects, and other 3D printing professionals worldwide. To date, over sixty di
- News
Learn how industry benchmarks show customer satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement are embedded in Ultimaker's DNA.
- News
Ultimaker launches optimized printing profiles for world-leading materials in the latest version of Ultimaker Cura. Plus, our wear-resistant print core CC Red 0.6, ideal for printing with composite materials, is now on sale.
- News
We talk to one of our most prolific community contributors, Anders Olsson, and how his work led to the development of a new wear-resistant print core.
- News
Ultimaker participated in the second edition of the Construct3D academic 3D Printing and Digital Fabrication conference joining over 250 educators, students, and thought leaders.
- News
Failure is good for innovation. That's the culture adopted by many businesses today – fail fast, learn fast, iterate. How does 3D printing help teach young people these agile skills?
- Trends
The Ultimaker North America team collaborated with local partners and professional CAD peers to introduce the latest updates to Ultimaker hardware, software, materials, and best practices at the leading conference for computer graphics professionals, desi
- News
Discover easy abrasive 3D printing with our new print core, using the world's most advanced plastics and composites from Owens Corning and DSM.
- News
Here are a few ways that 3D printing is finding its way into the everyday workflow of other, less obvious applications
- Applications
In this blog we offer insight into this process and look at how we test and develop various combinations of 3D printing materials.
- Applications
Ultimaker recently opened a new office in Singapore in order to meet the growing demand for Ultimaker 3D printers in the APAC region.
- News
We always love to see social media posts, blogs, and videos about how people are using Ultimaker 3D printers. For some time, Dinara Kasko has been lighting up news feeds with her 'geometric desserts', where she has creatively used 3D printing to produce m
- Applications
Almost every major auto brand, including Volkswagen, has documented the benefits that 3D printing has brought to their design and production process, noting significant reductions in both time and cost. To demonstrate the potential financial impact of th
- Trends
The past few years have shown a steady maturing of the FFF 3D printing market, followed by increased awareness as a viable manufacturing method.
- Trends
3D printing is becoming increasingly integral in the workplace. It helps companies validate designs, perform functional tests, and bring products to market more quickly. 3D printed prototypes are useful for communicating concepts with stakeholders, result
- Applications
All 3D printing technologies are based on a common principle – a 3D CAD model is sliced horizontally into separate cross-sections, that are then printed sequentially on top of each other to form a three-dimensional object. However, FFF, SLA, and SLS take
- Applications
When it comes to 3D printing, the filament you use can have a big impact on your final product. Each material has different properties that you can choose to suit your specific needs. Here's a handy guide to help you figure out which is which.
- Applications
We spoke to product designer Jorge Valle about how 3D printing helps him turn his ideas for new products into reality in next to no time, and how it fits into his 3D design workflow.
- Applications
From helping you present concepts to clients faster to allowing for more iterations during the process, 3D printing in architecture makes a lot of sense. Here are six reasons why you should consider one.
- Applications
Today, May 29th, 2018, marks the 10 year anniversary of the RepRap project. 3D printing has undergone an immense journey – inspiring minds, encouraging collaboration, and influencing the way we think about production.
- News
Ultimaker is forming collaborative alliances with global material companies to meet the growing demand for industrial-grade engineering materials compatible with Ultimaker 3D printers.
- News
Thanks to its accuracy, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, PLA (polylactic acid) 3D printing material is a great choice for many industries.
- Applications
While aid initiatives involving 3D printed functional prosthetics in Sierra Leone already exist, they are not time and cost-efficient. Surgical resident Lars Brouwers believed that there must be a better way to get aid to those affected.
- Applications
Jabil, one of the largest manufacturing service providers in the world, is overcoming production challenges with cost-efficient Ultimaker 3D printers.
- Applications
Electronics and engineering giant Bosch is investing in Ultimaker 3D printers for its global facilities to drive innovation while cutting manufacturing and design costs.
- News
Storing your PVA in optimal conditions is key to a high-quality 3D print. If stored improperly, PVA can absorb ambient moisture and cause failed prints. Follow our storage and care tips.
- Applications
One of the benefits of Ultimaker Cura is the ability for users to extend the core functionality of the software to streamline the 3D printing workflow. Users can experiment and deploy modifications to Ultimaker Cura to integrate different software, read c
- News
With the launch of Ultimaker's Breakaway support material, there are now even more options for supporting your 3D prints. But which one is right for your design? Let's take a look at the different options and when to use each one.
- Applications
At the Siemens PLM event, Ultimaker exhibited innovations that aim to enhance manufacturing. We showcased several successful business cases, including custom-made jigs and fixtures developed by Volkswagen Autoeuropa.
- News
Andrea Puglisi is a serials and reference librarian from Pittsfield, Massachusetts. In this library story, she shares her experience of how 3D printers can be used as powerful educational outreach tools for the local community.
- Applications
To demonstrate the potential financial impact of the newfound efficiencies brought on by 3D printing, Ultimaker sought out to answer: what exactly is an automotive minute worth?
- Trends
We are excited to announce an agreement for major funding from NPM Capital. With this new funding, we are able to accelerate product development and further grow the company.
- News
At Ultimaker, we believe in the value of openness, collaboration, and accessibility. That is why today, we are making the hardware designs for the Ultimaker 3 and Ultimaker 3 Extended available.
- News
With a fresh new interface, Ultimaker Cura 3.0 offers the easiest and most accessible 3D print preparation experience for users, whether they are novices or professionals.
- News
Despite being one of the most used plastics in the world, PP or polypropylene can be hard to use for 3D printing. With Ultimaker's optimized PP filament and these helpful tips, you'll be ready to start exploring the possibilities of this material.
- Applications
In this article, Jessica Lamarre, a librarian and makerspace coordinator, reflects on her experiences about how a 3D printer in a local community can be a powerful educational tool.
- Applications
In collaboration with the Delft University of Technology, one of our engineers has developed a technique to achieve grayscale printing using an Ultimaker 3. This enables users to print an object with varying tones using two colors.
- Applications
In over two years of our 3D printing program at the Marin City Library, we've had great success. Our intention was to bring new technologies to a community that lacks access to resources that others take for granted.
- Applications
If there's one topic guaranteed to excite students, it's dinosaurs. In tandem with Ultimaker, Naturalis Biodiversity Center has created an exhilarating, interactive lesson plan, showing you how to build a T. rex skeleton in the classroom.
- Applications
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- News
What is firmware? What does it do? In this article, we'll clear things up and explain how firmware operates inside your Ultimaker printer and how to update it. Let's get started.
- Applications
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- Applications
The Ultimaker brand is deeply rooted in our open source community. By sharing knowledge we will all ultimately have better products. The source files of the Ultimaker 2+ and Ultimaker 2 Extended+ are now available on GitHub.
- News
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- News
Our Inside Ultimaker series is designed to provide a deeper look at our talent here at Ultimaker across a variety of different roles, teams, and experience levels. Today, the spotlight is on Jasper Van Damme.
- News
Ultimaker has a great team of people – who work together to make our company what it is: exciting, dynamic and forward-thinking. Our Inside Ultimaker series provides insight into our talented crew – across a range of different roles and skill-sets.
- News
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- News
Our Inside Ultimaker series offers the chance to hear from our team members and find out what it's like to work with us. If you phone Ultimaker HQ, you're likely to be greeted by a friendly voice. That's Jacqueline Vulto, our amazing receptionist.
- News
Our series, Inside Ultimaker, is designed to give you some insight into the people who work with us. Meet Lenneke de Penning, our assembly team leader, who leads our group of talented assembly operators; and ensures that our production line runs smoothly
- News
Every company needs a great team behind it – which is why we feel very fortunate to have so many talented, passionate people working with us. Our Inside Ultimaker series gives you the chance to meet our team and discover what it's like to work here.
- News
We're proud to announce that the Ultimaker 2 Go and Ultimaker 2+ won the first and second prize in the competition, proving that they're up to printing complex models originally designed for SLA printers.
- News
We owe a lot to our trusty Ultimaker Original. It's where our journey into 3D printing began and we'll continue to support it well into the future, just as we know our wonderful community will.
- News
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- Trends
When we introduced the Ultimaker 2+ printers we asked popular modeler Jacky Wan, also known in the community as Valcrow, to create a model that would show off the new features of the Ultimaker 2+ line. He immediately came up with this beautiful model.
- Applications
Do you love Fallout 4? In this detailed walkthrough, you will find out how to make your own Fallout 4 Mini Nuke. It covers everything from designing the 3D models to post processing.
- Applications
When preparing a print, choosing the right 3D printing profile makes a really big difference. To help give you the lowdown on 3D printing best practices we've combined the knowledge of our experts with our online knowledge base.
- Applications
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- News
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- News
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- Applications
If it's happening in Ultimaker's world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
- Applications
Painting 3D-printed models is a great way of adding detail and production value to your models, often making the difference between a 'cool print' and a real piece of art.
- Applications
For May the 4th, I designed a 3D printed lightsaber in commemoration of Star Wars day in collaboration with Ultimaker. In this guest blog I will explore some of the design nuances and share some tips.
- Applications