I am interested in getting a 3D printer but I have no idea where to even started. Is there such thing as a multi-purpose printer? What’s a good source to read up on printers, software, filament?
I am thinking small replacements items like drawer guides, funnel for espresso machine, essentially little parts and pieces that break around the house and farm. Also maybe some device cases (including outdoor ones) etc.
Ideally I don’t want a closed system. I have a Cricut for 10 years or so and I hate being locked into the app so much. Unless there is a really, really good reason.
Edited to add: Thank you all! What an amazing community!
That’s good to know. I think the openness of Prusa is really appealing as long as it’s not more tinkering than printing.
Re farming I am more thinking about small enclosures for sensors for example. I am just learning about Lora networking and such and it would be great to build some sensors e.g. for soil moisture. The boards are really cheap but they need a case to protect from elements. I assumed I would need a different filament for anything outdoors but I haven’t looked into it yet.
We also had some smaller things break on the quad, tractor, equipment like caps or covers and stuffs hard to find. Not actual parts though. I get your point though I might have to brain storm a bit more on what exactly to make a good call on what the printer capability needs to be.
One last thought that I would leave you with: Air filtration. If you wish to eventually want to print some of those engineering filaments, or even the old standbys ABS/ASA, you need to have a working air filtration system to remove hazardous particulates and VOCs. This means activated charcoal filters. Some brands are better at it than others, but most of the manufacturer’s are at least acknowledging the need for it. And some few want you to believe their marketing over actual performance-- cough, cough Bambu’s new P2S cough.
Noted. I could use it outside or in a garage though eh?