3D Printing

Kerr's guide opens the field of 3D printing, a technology now applied across a steadily expanding range of industries. As the method gains ground, understanding how these machines operate, and how they can serve both personal projects and professional work, has become a practical skill.

The book makes the case that these printers are simpler to operate than many people assume, including for readers who do not consider themselves technically inclined. It surveys several of the most common printing technologies available today, along with notable industrial applications.

The central focus is fused deposition modeling (FDM), one of the most popular and approachable forms of the process. Readers learn the physical anatomy of an FDM printer, how its software settings work, and practical techniques for getting the most out of their own machine. The author also explains what FDM does well, where it currently falls short, and how to diagnose and fix frequent printing problems.

The final section offers cross-disciplinary STEAM challenges and projects that can be completed at home. Written for novices who are early in their 3D printing journey, the book is presented as a natural starting point for anyone curious about getting into the hobby or profession, and it aims to leave readers with the knowledge and tools to print with confidence.