Best 3D Printing Books
3D printing has revolutionized how we create and bring our imaginations to life. With advancements in technology, this industry has opened up doors for people to experiment, create, and enhance various aspects of daily life at home and work.
Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, these best 3D printing books teach you the ins and outs of 3D printing technology, exploring the hardware and software aspects, materials, techniques, and troubleshooting methods.
The table below compares the features of the best 3D printing books.
1. 3D Printing for Dummies by Richard Horne and Kalani Kirk Hausman
"3D Printing for Dummies" is a must-have book for beginners starting their journey in the world of 3D printing. Written by industry experts Richard Horne and Kalani Kirk Hausman, this comprehensive guide provides helpful tips, techniques, and a solid foundation of 3D printing knowledge.
Who Should Buy It
If you are a newbie looking for the best 3D printing book to grasp the fundamentals of the technology, "3D Printing for Dummies" can be perfect for you. From basics to troubleshooting, this resourceful book will teach you essential techniques, tools, and materials to get started with 3D printing.
Where to Buy It
The fastest and easiest way to purchase "3D Printing for Dummies" is through Amazon, where both the paperback and the eBook editions are available. You can also find this book at Barnes & Noble.
2. The 3D Printing Handbook: Technologies, Design, and Applications by Ben Redwood, Filemon Schöffer, and Brian Garret
The 3D Printing Handbook is an insightful guide that covers various aspects of 3D printing, including technologies, design, and applications. Authored by industry experts Ben Redwood, Filemon Schöffer, and Brian Garret, the book provides practical advice on selecting the right technology and designing for 3D printing based on their firsthand industry experience.
The book also discusses the benefits and limitations of major 3D printing technologies, giving you a good understanding of the hardware and process involved making it better than other books on 3D printing.
Who Should Buy It
This book can be an excellent resource for professionals, students, and enthusiasts looking to master the key aspects of 3D printing. If you're interested in functional design, additive manufacturing, and learning about different 3D printing materials, this book will be highly beneficial for you.
Where to Buy It
The 3D Printing Handbook is available in paperback and ebook formats on Amazon. The book has received positive reviews from the 3D printing community for its informative and detailed content, making it one of the best 3D printing books on the market.
3. Make: 3D Printing: The Essential Guide to 3D Printers by Anna Kaziunas France
"Make: 3D Printing: The Essential Guide to 3D Printers" by Anna Kaziunas France is one of the best 3D printing books available for those interested in learning about this fascinating technology.
In this book, Anna covers various aspects of 3D printing, from types of printers, materials, and software to functional design and troubleshooting.
Who Should Buy It
Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced maker, this book has something for everyone. If you're new to the world of 3D printing, it provides a solid introduction and covers the basics to help you understand and get started with the technology.
Where to Buy It
You can purchase "Make: 3D Printing: The Essential Guide to 3D Printers" on Amazon or Barnes & Noble. It's available in both paperback and Kindle editions, so you can choose the format that best suits your reading preferences.
4. Practical 3D Printers: The Science and Art of 3D Printing by Brian Evans
When diving into the world of 3D printing, "Practical 3D Printers: The Science and Art of 3D Printing" by Brian Evans stands out as one of the best 3D printing books.
This engaging read guides you through the ins and outs of 3D printing technology, helping you to learn how to build, calibrate, and customize your printer. The book also covers various CAD and 3D design tools like Fusion 360.
Who Should Buy It
This book can be perfect for readers who want to delve into the intricacies of 3D printing, whether they are beginners, hobbyists, or experienced makers. Both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts can benefit from the accessible tips, tricks, and online tutorials offered by the author, as well as the advice on material selection, design techniques, and troubleshooting guides.
Where to Buy It
You can buy Practical 3D Printers: The Science and Art of 3D Printing is available on Amazon.com and Springer.
5. Getting Started with 3D Printing: A Hands-on Guide to the Hardware, Software, and Services Behind the New Manufacturing Revolution by Liza Wallach Kloski and Nick Kloski
Make your first step into the exciting world of additive manufacturing with "Getting Started with 3D Printing," a practical, informative, and inspiring book written by Liza Wallach Kloski and Nick Kloski.
Who Should Buy It
This book can be perfect for beginners, students, and hobbyists looking to explore the incredible potential of 3D printing. If you're curious about the technology and want a hands-on approach to learning the basics, this book is for you.
Where to Buy It
You can purchase the book Getting Started with 3D Printing on Amazon and enjoy free shipping on eligible orders. This guide is an excellent investment towards expanding your knowledge and skills in the world of 3D printing and additive manufacturing.
6. The Zombie Apocalypse Guide to 3D Printing: Designing and Printing Practical Objects by Clifford T. Smyth
The Zombie Apocalypse Guide to 3D Printing by Clifford T. Smyth is a unique addition to the best 3D printing books collection. This book focuses on helping you make practical and durable items for everyday use with your 3D printer.
Who Should Buy It
This book can be perfect for anyone who wants to learn the ins and outs of 3D printing with a twist by making practical objects to face different scenarios. It's an excellent read for beginners and enthusiasts looking for creative projects to tackle.
Where to Buy It
To start equipping yourself with the knowledge and techniques needed to survive any situation using 3D printing, you can purchase The Zombie Apocalypse Guide to 3D Printing on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
7. Design for 3D Printing: Scanning, Creating, Editing, Remixing, and Making in Three Dimensions by Samuel N. Bernier, Bertier Luyt, and Tatiana Reinhard
This book helps you understand the methods, technologies, and software behind 3D printing, guiding you through the process of scanning, creating, editing, remixing, and making in three dimensions.
Who Should Buy It
This book can be suitable for beginners and advanced users alike, providing in-depth knowledge and tips on 3D printing. If you are a student, interested in technology, or a maker who wants to learn more about creating and editing 3D models, this book will be an excellent resource for you.
Where to Buy It
You can buy Design for 3D Printing: Scanning, Creating, Editing, Remixing, and Making in Three Dimensions on Amazon and eBay.
8. Mastering 3D Printing by Joan Horvath
Mastering 3D Printing by Joan Horvath is a comprehensive guide that covers various aspects of 3D printing technology. This book is an excellent resource for those who are passionate about 3D printing and want to broaden their knowledge in this thrilling field.
Who Should Buy It
This book can be perfect for people encountering 3D printing for the first time or those who want to level up their skills. It is designed for nontechnical adults and promises to minimize jargon. However, more sophisticated users will still find tips and insights of value as the book touches upon the strengths and advancements of the 3D printing industry.
Where to Buy It
You can purchase Mastering 3D Printing by Joan Horvath on Amazon. In addition, you can find this book on the publisher's website, like SpringerLink, and other online book retailers, such as O'Reilly, making it easier for you to access this invaluable resource.
9. Functional Design for 3D Printing by Clifford T. Smyth
This book delves into the intersection of design, utility, and 3D printing, offering design practices that will teach you how to create functional models that print quickly and reliably. Readers can expect to learn about various functional design elements, 3D printing techniques, and how to create durable objects with their 3D printer.
Who Should Buy It
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned 3D printer user, this book can be perfect for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of functional design for 3D printing. Students, makers, and professionals alike will find valuable tips, tricks, and troubleshooting strategies, along with detailed examples and instructions.
Where to Buy It
You can find Functional Design for 3D Printing by Clifford T. Smyth on Amazon in both paperback and Kindle eBook formats. This convenient purchasing option allows you to choose the format that best suits your reading preferences.
This table shows the key details of functional design for 3D printing by Clifford T. Smyth:
10. 3D Printing Projects by DK
3D Printing Projects by DK is a fantastic book for those interested in getting started with 3D printing. This book provides step-by-step visual instructions for both simple and more complicated projects, making it perfect for beginners and children alike.
Who Should Buy It
If you're new to 3D printing or have children who are interested in learning about this technology, the 3D Printing Projects book is a great choice. It's designed to teach the basics of 3D printing, from designing to scanning, modeling, digital sculpting, slicing, and finally, printing.
Where to Buy It
You can purchase 3D Printing Projects book by DK is available on Amazon.
11. Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your 3D Printer by Charles Bell
This book presents valuable insights on hardware maintenance, as well as how to diagnose and solve common 3D printing failures. By providing systematic guidelines, the author aims to assist you in extending your printer's lifespan and ensuring top-notch prints.
Who Should Buy It
If you're a 3D printing enthusiast, a student looking to learn more about the technology or even a professional in the 3D printing field, this book can be beneficial for you.
- Beginners: If you are new to 3D printing, this book will help you understand the basics, as well as essential maintenance and troubleshooting tips.
- Experienced users: For those who have been working with 3D printing for a while, this book provides advanced techniques and in-depth insights into the hardware.
Where to Buy It
To get your hands on this valuable resource, you can purchase Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your 3D Printer on Amazon. Alternatively, you can also find the book at books.google.com, where you can preview portions of the book before buying.
12. The Invent To Learn Guide to 3D Printing in the Classroom: Recipes for Success by David D. Thornburg, Norma Thornburg, and Sara Armstrong
This book offers a comprehensive guide on how to get started with 3D printing in an educational setting, providing step-by-step projects, resources, and tips to engage students of all ages. From science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to visual arts and design, this book has many useful things for everyone.
Who Should Buy It
If you're an educator, parent, or anyone working with children, this book can be perfect for you. It aims to empower you with the knowledge and resources needed to bring 3D printing into the classroom, regardless of your experience level.
The book is beginner-friendly and provides detailed instructions and tutorials for various projects. Some of these projects include:
- Creating a personalized nameplate.
- Designing a customized cookie cutter.
- Making a simple machine or robot.
- Crafting a 3D model of a famous building or monument.
Where to Buy It
The Invent To Learn Guide to 3D Printing in the Classroom is available on Amazon, where you can find both the paperback and Kindle editions. You can also find additional resources and information on the Invent To Learn Guide to 3D Printing official website to complement the book.
Here's a quick comparison between the two available formats:
13. 3D Printing with Autodesk 123D, Tinkercad, and MakerBot by Lydia Sloan Cline
The book covers various aspects of 3D printing technology, including creating 3D designs with Autodesk 123D, Tinkercad, and MakerBot software. By employing step-by-step tutorials and DIY projects, the book helps you turn your ideas into physical products that you can use or sell.
Who Should Buy It
This book can be ideal for anyone interested in learning about 3D printing and who wants to create 3D models using user-friendly software. Beginners and experienced users alike can benefit from the book's clear instructions, practical examples, and valuable resources.
Where to Buy It
You can purchase "3D Printing with Autodesk 123D, Tinkercad, and MakerBot" in both paperback and ebook formats on Amazon.
From Concept to Creation: Your Journey in 3D Printing
From a mere concept in your head to a tangible creation in your hands, the process of 3D printing is nothing short of magical.
1. Dreaming Up Your Design
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's start with the fun part — dreaming up your design! Whether it’s a custom phone case, a quirky keychain, or even a tabletop figurine, the possibilities are practically endless.
2. Sketching and Designing
Next up, we bring those dreams to life. If you’re artistically inclined, you might sketch out your design on paper. Or, if you’re like me and drawing isn’t your forte, there are tons of user-friendly 3D design software options out there.
3. Prototyping
Now that we have our design, it’s time for a test run. This is where we'll refine the design and make any necessary tweaks. It might take a couple of tries, but remember, patience is key!
4. The Big Print
With our design finalized, it’s time for the main event — the 3D print! Watching your creation come to life layer by layer is truly a sight to behold. Ensure you’ve got your camera ready; this is a moment you’ll want to capture!
5. Finishing Touches
Our journey doesn’t end when the printer stops. Now it's time to add any finishing touches. Maybe it's a coat of paint, a bit of sanding, or even some assembling. Whatever it is, this is where your masterpiece truly comes to life.
