3D Printer

We have a PolyPrinter 229 3-D Printer with a variety of filament colors for your needs. We do not accept print jobs via email or online, you must come into the library, and we will show you how to print your .STL file.   

What is 3D Printing?
3D Printing is the process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file. Objects are printed on a specialized printer using a heating element to melt plastic filament and lay down the many tiny layers of the 3D object.

Getting Started

1. Bring in your file or find a file you want to print from Thingiverse or another creation source such as Tinkercad. The file needs to be in STL format.

2. Upload the .STL file to the KISSlicer program on our computer. This program takes the object and creates a .gcode that maps out how the 3D printer should print it for you.

3. Save the sliced image as a .gcode. This is the file format the printer will be able to read.

4. Upload the .gcode file into the PolyPrinter program, and then hit print when available.  

5. Depending on the object's size, it can take anywhere from 1-2 hours, with larger jobs taking longer. If your project needs more than 2 hours to complete, you must confirm availability with the library staff. 

3D Printer FAQs

Who can use the 3D printer?

Anyone with an active Riter C. Hulsey Public Library card that is good standing can use the 3D Printer. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times during use of the 3D Printer. Minors 13 years and older can use the 3D Printer, with parent’s consent. 

When can I use the 3D printer?

A reservation is required to use the 3D Printer. Reservation slots are available during designated Makerspace hours. All prints must be completed 30 minutes before the library closes. Staff assistance may be requested, but subject to availability.  

Do I need to bring anything?

Library staff are equipped to help you find a design on Thingiverse. If you would like to bring your own STL file, you can upload it to your personal cloud or bring it on a thumb drive to the library.

What kind of 3D printer do you have?

Type of Printer: PolyPrinter 229

Printer area: 229mm x 229mm x 229 mm (9in3)

Filament: 1.75mm ABS

The 3D printer carts carry several colors of filament to choose from. For all prints, you must use the filament provided by the library.

Slicing Program: KISSlicer

Printing Program: PolyPrinter

I’ve created my own design, can I print that?

Absolutely! You can design your own object using Tinkercad or other computer-aided design (CAD) software. Save your design as an STL file, and upload it to your personal cloud or bring it on a thumbdrive to the library.

What if I have to leave before my print is finished?

If you have a print job that will take longer to finish than your booked time slot, please let the library staff know before you start your print job. We don’t want to have to cancel your print job in order for others to print during their booked time, so it is important that library staff be made aware from the beginning. 

Is there anything I can’t print?

Items that are prohibited by local, state, or federal law. Items that are unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or pose an immediate threat to the well-being of animals or people.

Items that are obscene or otherwise inappropriate for the Library environment, at staff discretion. By submitting objects for printing, guests assume all responsibility for, and shall hold the Library harmless in, all matters related to patented, trademarked, or copyrighted materials.

How do I learn more about 3D printing?

Join us for programs on 3D printing, 3D design, and more! Check our calendar for dates and times. We also encourage you to explore the library's collection.