Skip to Main Content

Fab Lab

This guide is to demonstrate all of the available resources in Fant Memorial Library's Fab(brication) Lab(oratory) and how to use them.

3D Printer

3D printing in the Fant Memorial Library Tech Lab is utilized in classroom projects, or co-curricular projects and activities. There are two 3D printers in the lab, and we offer a variety of filament colors. 3D printing services are available by appointment!

3D Printing (Design Software)

  • TinkerCad is free 3D design software that is web-based. It is great for beginners and has interactive tutorials.
  • SketchUp is free 3D modeling software that is very popular and easy to use.
  • Thingiverse is a site that has 3D files already created. Search their large database to see if there is something for you
  • Cura is slicing software you can use to prepare your prints!

Things to Consider Before Ordering a Print

How will this print be used?

  1. Is it a decoration?
  2. Are there any moving parts in the print?
  3. Will the object be bearing any weight? (e.g. a hinge or a hanger)

Infill

The infill density used in 3D printing how much of the model is filled with material. The printer accomplishes this by printing  To determine how much infill you need for a piece, you should consider what it's being used for. 

0-20%: Non-functional parts: For pieces that are not functional or do not need to withstand force, such as a display model or presentation prototypes, 10-20% infill is sufficient. In some cases, no infill is a viable option if there are no large flat surfaces on the top of the print. If there are large flat surfaces on the top of the print, some infill is needed to support those surfaces.

20-40%:  Light-use parts: For functional parts which will undergo some force, a moderate level of infill provides nearly the same strength as a solid part at a reduced cost.  

40-100% Heavy-use parts: If your parts must withstand significant forces, or strength is the most important factor above cost, a higher infill percentage is the best choice.  However, increasing infill percentage beyond 60% has diminishing returns on strength.

  Cross-section of 3D printed parts at differing infill percentages    

Reserve a 3D Printer

If you're ready with your file, schedule a time to use the 3D printer here!