What do you do if you're a freelancer in 3D printing and need the essential tools and software?

To grow as a free lancer in 3d printing field, the following tools, software and skills can be helpful: Skills : CAD skills, STL editing skills, Slicer skills, Post processing skills, Outsourcing skills. Software: CAD software, STL editing software, Slicing software, material estimation software. Tools and equipment: Basic stationary and measuring scales, weighing scales, 3d printer, Post processing chambers like Acetone chamber, UV chamber, Paint works, PC, Post processing tools like pliers, Scrapers, Chisels, Cutters, blades..etc, Packaging equipment. Apart from these good communication and negotiation skills, contacts to outsource, ideas to market the services, being constantly updated, developing more network and contacts can help.

As a freelancer in 3D printing, securing essential tools and software involves strategic choices: 1. Start with Open-Source: Leverage free, open-source 3D modeling and slicing software to begin with minimal costs. 2. Utilize Trials: Explore trial versions of commercial software to find what best suits your workflow before committing financially. 3. Invest Gradually: As you secure projects, reinvest earnings into purchasing or subscribing to more advanced tools that enhance your capabilities. 4. Stay Updated: Keep an eye on industry forums and communities for updates on new tools and software discounts. This approach helps manage expenses while gradually building a comprehensive toolkit.

Learn how to 3D model using open source software such as Blender ! Learn how to use Cura Slicer and train yourself in 3D the 3D printers interface and fabrication

As a freelancer, one of the crucial step is to invest in essential hardware. Various factors such as budget constraints, desired build volume, achievable print quality, material compatibility, and the potential for future upgrades must be carefully considered when selecting the right 3D printer. Furthermore, integrating more advanced extruders into existing printers can be a cost-effective solution for freelancers looking to enhance their printing capabilities. This approach also provides freelancers more flexibility by increasing the quality of printed parts and expanding the choice of materials that may be used.

The good news is that 3D printers got very affordable over the last decade and there is an abundance of free content available to get started. Explore the different technologies, models and respective tutorials before you buy a unit. There are various pros and cons depending on goals and budget but it's a colorful scene, full of curious and supportive individuals.

Due to its multidimensional nature, 3D software can be quite intimidating for beginners, aside from the potential cost of some apps. Nowadays, there are plenty of free options, though, and fantastic communities to kick-start the learning process with YouTube tutorials and inspiring projects. For completely free tools, check out: Blender (technically not CAD, but extremely versatile), FreeCAD (a bit tricky to get started, but comprehensive), SolveSpace (basic functionality, but simple) and consider using AI tools, if you're looking for a generative approach.

Along with a lot of open source tools, there are also tools for which you can buy a license for a month, which might be enough to get the job done. You don't have to buy expensive software to do the job, you may not even need many of the options they bring. See what you need to design, and what you need from options in the software, mostly all of them have a free trial period, download it, try it, and if it suits you, buy it.

As a 3D printing freelancer these are some of the basic softwares I recommended: 3D Modeling Software: 1.Blender (Free & Open-source) 2.Meshmixer (Free) 3.Fusion 360 (Freemium) 3D Slicing Software: 1.Cura (Free & Open-source) 2.PrusaSlicer (Free & Open-source) 3.Simplify3D (Paid)

Utilize affordable and beginner-friendly 3D printers, such as the Creality Ender 3 or JGMaker A5s, readily available in the market for a foundation in 3D printing without a hefty initial investment. On skills, there's a wealth of tutorials available online on sites like YouTube and Instructables. Platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer online courses taught by industry experts, covering topics ranging from 3D modeling to printer maintenance. Open-source software like Blender can help you get started. Proprietary software like Autodesk Fusion 360, also offer free versions with limited features suitable for beginners. Use these to hone your skills and expand your market base enough to make investing in premium software and tools worthwhile.

Each material has its own characteristics that you must know, not only on paper but also in practice. Learn how materials behave in different conditions. 3D print something, put it in the freezer for a while, then take it out and put it in the sun, leave it in the rain, let it be outside for a while. Then see what effects it had on the material, so you will know which material is best for your project and what you can expect from that material.

Prior to investing in a 3D printer, thorough research is key. Consider factors like the availability of a supportive community or help desk, the availability of custom 3D part files for upgrades, and the ease of sourcing and replacing parts. Since components can fail over time, maintaining a stock of spare parts is always wise.

Short routine checks before each print are best practice. You don't need a lot of tools, a pair of screwdrivers and bits, a small metal brush, scalpel, clipper tool, tweezers... Follow manufacturers, forums, videos so you know what's new or what update has come out.

We must understand that just like in an industry, we have to have a preventive setup for our 3D printer, and have spare parts for critical parts in stock.

As a 3D printer freelancer,ensure you have essential these maintenance tools: 1. Screwdrivers & allen/hex keys: For assembly and adjustments. 2. Adjustable Wrench: Tighten nuts and bolts. 3. Cleaning Brushes: Remove dust and debris. 4. Lubricants: Keep moving parts well-oiled. 5. Compressed Air: Clean hard-to-reach areas. 6. Lint-Free Cloths: Wipe down surfaces. 7. Calipers: Ensure precision in measurements. 8. Pliers: Needle-nose pliers-Gripping and manipulating parts. 9. Isopropyl alcohol (IPA):remove any residue that may affect future prints 10.Metal scrappers & tweezers.

Networking is essential for freelancers in 3D printing, for that matter in any field you work, in enabling access to opportunities, knowledge sharing, visibility, support, and professional growth. Some tips for networking below: 1.Online Presence: Build Portfolio Website & Social Media: 2.Networking Events:3D Printing Events & Meetups & Hackathons & Design Challenges 3.Collaborations:Offer Free Consultations,Build Relationships with other freelancers 4.Cold Outreach:hard but more effective. 5.Become a Certified Professional

It is very demanding to be a freelancer in this field, you have to come up with an idea, design it, print it, perfect it, and only then market it. You use the networks to promote yourself and your work, then someone from those networks sees what you have done and does the same. And then the whole cycle starts again. It's hard to be a freelancer in 3D printing, but it's even harder if you don't use networks.

There is always some new software that everyone praises and you have to try it, a upgrade part that works better or more stable, new filament or something else. Everything happens relatively quickly, so you also have to learn quickly and use everything at your disposal.

Although 3D printing is generally safe, always work in a proper environment and with adequate safety equipment, especially when dealing with resin printers that emit fumes while printing and require solvents to wash the prints. A good respirator, rubber gloves, and a well-ventilated workstation should be considered essential. If you're not confident with this process, FDM printing with non-toxic filaments is a good way to start.