3D printing: the opportunities are limitless! De Agostini ModelSpace brings you the latest technology available on the market and make it easy for you to build your own 3D printer and also print the object you want with our step by step guide.

If you can imagine a shape, you can print it with your 3D printer - the Idbox!

Use your imagination, input the data into the 3D modelling software on your PC, then output on the idbox!

3D printing is one of the most exciting technological developments of recent years, bringing 3D manufacturing capability within reach of millions of users. As well as the extraordinary growth in home 3D printing with the exciting possibilities it offers to anyone who wants to make their own stuff, to order and when it suits them, the technology is also changing the world at large in numerous ways.

3D printers are great for creating whatever you can design or download, whether it’s a miniature figure, a part for a device or a handy accessory. But how do you get a solid object that you can hold in your hand from a file in your computer? Here we look at the technology that allows your 3D printer to create an actual object from a virtual one.

Plan: Before you can print anything out on a 3D printer you need a design. Think of the piece that you want to make. It can be based on a real object or a sketch - it's up to your imagination!

Model: The 3D object is designed on a computer. You can either come up with your own design, using modeling software like AUTODESK 123D, or download an existing design file from one of the many sites on the Internet that offers ready-to-use 3D objects. The information contained in a file describes the size and shape of the object. When you have a design that you want to print out, the information in the file is sent to special 3D printing software that converts the data into instructions that control how the printer deposits the material to make the model.

Print: Once the data is complete, it is output from the PC to the 3D printer. Start the program and wait for the shape to emerge...

The model is built up layer by layer starting from the bottom.

There are many different types of 3D printer, depending on the materials they use and the way they work. One common type uses fused deposition modelling, where a heated molten material – usually plastic – is extruded in thin strips that harden to create the object. The material is supplied in a filament that is fed into an extruder where it is heated ready to be laid down. It hardens rapidly when it cools in contact with the air. The object being printed is built up strip by strip, and layer by layer. The extruder moves by tiny amounts between laying down each strip as the model is built up from the bottom. Most home 3D printers work this way.

Finish: Your three-dimensional artwork has been created! We will show you how to polish the surface or add colour. Add a professional finish to your work!

After a design has been printed out there are a few more things that might need doing to finish it off. If, for instance, the design had overhanging structures these might have been reinforced with supports, as part of the design, to stop it deforming during printing. These supports now need to be removed. Depending how they are made or how thick they are they might need to be snapped off using your fingers or cut off carefully with a craft knife. 3D printing can leave the object with grooves or ridges on it. These can be smoothed off with a file or abrasive paper. The final step might be to paint the model for extra effect.

Your Modelling Experience

1. Model consists of high-quality parts to build your own 3D printer, the idbox! Delivered with UK plug.
2. Free delivery to UK and Ireland and international delivery AVAILABLE
3. Full Kit is delivered in one go for £699.
4. Your step-by-step instructions are available to download directly from us under the Build Section.
5. Plus, two FREE gifts.