After building the Prusa i3 Mk3 3D printer with the help of my daughter, I discovered that the most difficult part in 3D printing is making 3D models from scratch. Although I have made 3D models for use with CNC projects, I had never made a design using Autodesk fusion 360. There was a big learning curve as I went from using a program like Aspire vectric, to fusion 360.

Building the Prusa i3 Mk3 printer and then taking a pre-made 3d file to print is relatively easy to do. The Prusa instructions included with printer are well documented, making all the steps easy to follow and resulting in a good first printout. I initially thought it would be difficult to print; like the time when I used my Shapeoko 2 CNC machine for the first time. However, I was amazed at how easy it was to use.

After spending some time learning Autodesk fusion 360, I began on the project shown above. I designed a sleeve that holds a wireless remote and allows me to mount the remote to a wall. I chose to learn fusion 360 because of the various recommendations from users and available online tutorials. So far, it has taken me more time to learn how to make a 3d model in this software than when I learnt to use Aspire for CNC projects. I had hoped that I could simply leverage what I learnt from using the Aspire software, but making CNC files and 3D printing files are two different things.

After creating the 3D file, I used PrusaControl to make the g-code file which the 3D printer could understand. At this point, I was happy to simply drag and drop and make a few selections in the program without having to worry about more advanced settings. I was eager to send my project to the printer and see how it would turn out, since my project design and dimensions were un-tested. PrusaControl made it so easy to generate g-code and resulted in a good printout.

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About Marlon Lopez

I enjoy collaborating with artist, photographers, designers and gear heads. I find inspiration while driving the most perfect driving roads imaginable in California. I have experience in print design, web design, advertising, corporate identity, brochures, printed directories, direct mail, interactive design, and 3D printing. My design solutions emerge from a comprehensive design process, and a understanding of my clients needs.

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