Getting Started with 3D Printing: Benchy

getting started with 3d printing: benchy

You’re about to start a fantastic journey with the Creality Ender-3 V3 Printer, creating your very first 3D model—Benchy. This guide is packed with easy steps to get you from loading the Benchy model to your first successful print. Whether you’re new to 3D printing or brushing up on your skills, we’ve got all the tips you need right here. Ready to dive in? Let’s Begin and unleash your creativity with endless possibilities!    

learning objectives

Understanding Creality

Resources

understanding creality

The Creality Ender 3 V3 is a popular and affordable 3D printer known for its reliability, precision, and beginner-friendly setup. With its sturdy frame and open-source design, this printer is ideal for hobbyists, makers, educators, and small businesses.

Key features include a generous build volume, fast heating bed, and an easy-to-use interface. The Ender 3 V3 comes partially assembled, making setup quick and straightforward, even for first-time users. It supports a wide range of filament types and offers excellent print quality for its price range.

Whether you’re printing prototypes, models, or functional parts, the Ender 3 V3 delivers consistent performance and detailed results. Its open-source firmware also allows for upgrades and customization as your skills grow.

CLICK ON THE HOTSPOTS TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE COMPONENTS

BENCHY WALKTHROUGH

Scroll to view a walkthrough of the slicing process using the Lychee slicing software for the  Creality Ender V3.

Step 1: Load Benchy

Open 'Benchy.stl' in Lychee Slicer via File > Load Model.

Step 2: Prepare Benchy

Click 'Layer Viewer' to process the model for printing.  
Model will change colour when G-code is ready  

Step 3: Add Supports or Rafts

Benchy.stl does not need supports for printing. If your model requires supports:  
Lychee slicer automatically adds supports.  

Step 4: Export the G Code

Click "Export".
 Select "Export G-code to file

Step 5: Transfer to USB

Save the generated G-code file to a USB thumb drive.  
When the successful screen is shown, unplug the USB thumb drive. Your file is now ready to print!

loading filament creality ender 3 v3 ke

It is important to know how to load the filament on the Ender. You can bring your own PLA filament to print at the YWCA Makerspace.  

Step 1: Prepare the Filament Roll

Locate the filament roll on top of the enclosure.

Step 2: Feed the Filament

Feed the filament through the hole on the right side of the enclosure.

Step 3: Trim the Filament

Cut the filament at a 45° angle to aid with feeding it through the machine.

Step 4: Insert the Filament

Thread the straightened filament through the filament detection switch. The light will turn blue when the filament is correctly positioned.

Step 5: Load onto the Hotend

On the left side of the hotend, press down the tab and feed the filament through the hole to the bottom of the heat break until you cannot push it anymore. There should be some excess filament protruding from the nozzle.

printer setup: homing the creality ender 3 v3 ke

Homing the printer aligns the nozzle and bed correctly, prevents damage, and sets a reference point for correct prints.

Steps to Home the Printer  

1. Access Creality Ender’s Settings Menu:
  - On the LCD screen, click the Gear button in the bottom menu. This will bring up the settings
2. Home the Printer:
  - Click the Home button in the center of the screen. The printer will automatically move to its home position.

USB Flash Drive Printing on Creality Ender 3 V3 KE 

Insert the USB Flash Drive: 
- Insert the USB flash drive into any USB port on the printer.
Select the Model:  
- On the LCD screen, click the file folder icon in the bottom menu
- Select the model file from the USB flash drive
- Click on the model file and then click “Print”
Printer Calibration: 
- The printer will take a few moments to calibrate the temperature of both the print bed and nozzle.
- It will also probe multiple points of the bed to confirm that it is leveled.  
Start Printing:
- The printer will begin printing the model automatically.

tips

File Placement:  
Saved files must be placed in the root directory (not a subdirectory) of the USB flash drive.  

USB Usage:
Do not insert or remove the USB flash drive during the printing process.  

removing prints

Wait for Printer to Stop

Once the model is completed, the printer will lower the build plate and move it forward.  
Do not touch the machine until it has come to a complete stop.

Remove the Print Bed

Carefully remove the print bed. It will be warm, but not hot.  

Flex the Print Bed

For most prints, flex the plate from different angles. This should pop most prints off the bed easily.  

Use a Scraper for Stubborn Parts

For harder-to-remove prints, use a metal scraper to pry the print off the bed.  
Always scrape away from yourself to avoid injuries.  

Dispose of Waste Material Property

Dispose of any waste material properly.

Clean the Print Bed

Clean the print bed after each use to ensure best performance. 