Getting Started with 3D Printing: From Budget to Benchmarks
So, you’ve decided to jump into the world of 3D printing. Welcome to a hobby that’s equal parts rewarding, frustrating, and downright addicting. Whether you’re looking to prototype your next big idea, fix something around the house, or just print a ton of silly figurines (no judgement), there’s a printer out there for you. But before you start dreaming of perfect prints, let’s break it all down: how to get started, what to expect, and why most printing problems are—spoiler alert—your fault.
Now, I’m not writing this as some 3D printing guru. Honestly, I see 3D printers as tools rather than a full-time hobby—though it can definitely become one. My perspective comes from countless hours tinkering with machines, including the time I built a wooden RepRap out of cut-up MDF and completely reworked a Da Vinci 1.0 to run custom firmware. So yeah, I’ve been around the block, and I’m here to help you avoid some of the headaches I’ve had along the way.
Step 1: Picking Your Printer
Your first big decision is choosing a printer that fits your needs and budget. Here’s a quick guide to some solid options, of printers that I have had hands on time with and been able to work out their quirks.
Budget-Friendly (Under $450 NZD)
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE (~$430 NZD)
A great beginner printer that punches way above its price point. With a sturdy build, easy assembly, and solid print quality, this is my go-to recommendation for anyone starting out. Plus, it’s a tinkerer’s dream—you’ll learn a lot by tweaking this machine. This is my only good machine currently and I have calibrated and tweaked it to give me perfect reliable prints.Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro (~$400 NZD)
Slightly more polished than the Ender 3, this one offers auto bed leveling and quieter operation, making it perfect for beginners who don’t want to fuss too much right away.
Mid-Range ($450–$1,000 NZD)
Prusa Mini+ (~$850 NZD)
Known for reliability and great customer support, the Mini+ is perfect for those who want consistent prints without endless troubleshooting. It’s a bit pricier, but you get a printer that just works out of the box.Bambulab P1P (~$950 NZD)
A rising star in the 3D printing world, the P1P offers a blend of high speed and precision. It’s a great step up if you want something faster and more advanced but don’t quite want to splurge on premium models.
High-End ($1,000 NZD and Up)
Prusa MK4 (~$1,800 NZD)
The industry standard for prosumers. It’s pricey but offers outstanding print quality, durability, and a wealth of features like silent printing and advanced error detection. But you're spending this much, just get the Bambu already.Bambu Lab X1 Carbon (~$2,000 NZD)
If you want the Rolls-Royce of 3D printers, this is it. With multi-material support and blazing-fast speeds, it’s the pinnacle of desktop 3D printing. Just be ready to pay for it.
Step 2: Mastering the Basics
Before you hit "print," there are a few things you need to know to avoid common pitfalls. Here’s the hard truth: most 3D printing problems aren’t the printer’s fault—they’re yours. (Hey, I’ve been there too!)
1. Bed Adhesion Issues
If your prints aren’t sticking, don’t blame the printer. Check the following:
Is your bed clean? Residue from previous prints or oils from your hands can ruin adhesion. Wash it with isopropyl alcohol or soapy water.
Is the bed level? Even with auto bed leveling, calibration is key. Double-check your Z-offset to make sure the nozzle is at the right height.
2. Filament Drying
Filament absorbs moisture from the air, especially materials like PETG and nylon. Wet filament can lead to stringing, poor layer adhesion, and weak prints. Invest in a filament dryer or make your own out of a food dehydrator. Trust me, dry filament makes a huge difference.
3. Slicer Settings
Your slicer software (like Cura or PrusaSlicer) is the brain behind your printer. If prints fail, ask yourself:
Did you set the right layer height and print speed?
Is your temperature correct for the filament you’re using? PLA usually prints at 190–220°C, while ABS or PETG might need higher temps.
4. Filament Quality
Cheap filament can lead to inconsistent extrusion and poor results. Stick to trusted brands like eSun, Hatchbox, or Prusament for reliable prints. I have found that Ender prototyping PLA works well too. I use eSun ABS, Overture PETG, and KiwiFil or Ender PLA, with some eSun ESilk filament too.
5. Don't be a classic Bambu user...
Step 3: Troubleshooting Like a Pro
Troubleshooting is part of the process, especially when you’re starting out. Here are a few tips to make the journey smoother:
Start Small: Print calibration cubes or test models before diving into big projects.
Use Online Resources: Communities like Reddit’s r/3Dprinting or forums for your specific printer are gold mines of advice.
Don’t Fear Failure: Every failed print is a chance to learn. Diagnose the issue, fix it, and try again. And every failed print always tells you something else about the printer.
Why I Love 3D Printing
3D printing is one of those hobbies where the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. I’ve made some crazy projects over the years, from custom upgrades to Frankenstein’d machines like my wooden RepRap. It’s not just about the prints—it’s about learning, tinkering, and creating solutions. There’s something incredibly satisfying about troubleshooting a machine, dialing in the settings, and watching it come to life.
So, if you’re just getting started, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every failure is a step closer to success. And remember: a 3D printer is only as good as the person operating it. Take your time, learn the ropes, and have fun along the way. Who knows? You might end up loving the process as much as the results.