3D Printing
The Parsons Public Library strives to offer community access to new and emerging technology, such as 3D printing. We wish to help the community bring their ideas and creations to life. This policy establishes how and under what circumstances the public may use the library’s 3D printer.
Reserve up to two hours per day to use the 3D printer, and up to four hours per week. For longer jobs, please reserve the last slot of the day and the print job can continue overnight. All reservations stops 1 hour before closing for cleanup.
You can also come in to see if the 3D printer is available for a walk-in on a first-come, first-served basis!
Our Printer: DittoPro
Please read the library's 3D Printer Policy prior to making an appointment.
Click Here to sign up for a time
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to print?
Printing is $1.00 for every 20g. So after printing we weigh your project and if it weighs 20g or less it's $1. If it weighs 20-40g it will cost $2. If you need help estimating your cost, library staff will help during your reserved time.
What do I need to bring?
If you have a 3D model you would like to print, please bring the file in STL or OBJ format. If not just bring yourself a little early and we'll show you some resources to find something or how to make your own 3D model.
How big of an object can I print?
That depends on how much time your object will take to print. The printer has a maximum size of 21.5 x 16 x 22 cm but if a project will take too long it will have to be smaller than that.
What kind of material does it use?
Our printer uses PLA filament. it is a biodegradable plastic derived from corn starch or sugarcane.
How does it work?
To print a project you first need to create a 3D image and save it as file type .OBJ or .STL. Once we have, the file it gets imported to our slicing software. This software cuts up the 3D object into layers so the 3D Printer knows how to print it.
Can I use more than one color?
The simple answer is yes! However, library staff will work with you to make sure your project turns out the best it can and so you know what it will look like at the end. Switching colors takes time so these print jobs will take a little longer to complete.