3D Printers A Beginner's Guide is an information rich primer for home users of 3D printers written and curated by Oliver Bothmann. Originally released in 2015, this second edition, released in Feb 2025 by Fox Chapel, is 168 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats.
This is an introductory overview. The author explains the scope and processes involved in sourcing, choosing, acquiring, setting up, and first steps in learning and using a 3D printer for home/hobbyist users. He doesn't cover the necessary facility/learning involved with CAD/CAM which will be necessary for self-designed prints.
The first 20% includes a jaw-dropping array of amazing items (including articulated clothing, 3D printed food items (!!), furniture, and much more which will amaze and inspire readers. The chapters following the introduction cover accessing and using data (Thingiverse, etc), printing, trimming/finishing, and service access for printers. The author/publisher have also included an abbreviated sources and links list (heavily slanted toward readers in EU areas, but North American readers will find the same resources with an internet search), as well as an abbreviated bibliography and cross-referenced index.
Four stars. This book alone won't be sufficient for users who are trying to get started who are completely without other resources.. but it definitely gives a lot of good ideas and a general push in the direction of further instruction. It's absolutely mind-blowing what's possible with 3D printers and this book does give a good overview.
It would be a good choice for public, school, or home library acquisition, for makers' spaces or as a support text for classroom & workshop instruction.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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