looking to build a 3D printer

I'm looking to begin building a 3D printer and am completely new to the scene. I could really just use some direction on where I should start. There's so many names out there, and models, and versions and... blah. It's hard to tell where to even start, and when you're tight on money, there's not a lot of wiggle room to accidentally order the wrong thing.

I'm looking to get a kit that has everything I need, hardware-wise, to build a fully functioning printer. Having the option to print new parts and upgrade would be nice too, but not required. Price is a factor, probably the hardest to work around. I'd like to keep it under 200, but I might be able to shift around some extra funds if I need to.

Thanks in advance for help!

Under $200 is VERY hard, if not impossible to find. $300 is much more doable, but you will get only the basics (PLA only, no heated bed, small build area).

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greghoge.com

HUGE 3D PRINTER PARTS SALE!!!

300 doesn't sound unrealistic. And no heated bed shouldn't be too bad, I'm sure I can find a way to keep it warm, or make some kind of chamber to keep the while thing warm. I PLA means, though... I assume it's the type of plastic? For a beginner and non-commercial hobbyist, I don't think that will be a huge problem, since I won't know what working with anyothersis like anyway.

I'm also curious how small a "small build area" is. I mainly plan to use it for small things anyway, though I have nothing specific in mind.

small as in 100x100x100mm. However, it is highly possible to expand that later on, especially if you go with the Printrbot Simple.

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greghoge.com

HUGE 3D PRINTER PARTS SALE!!!

Hey,

I would recommend taking a look at the Printrbot or the RepRap Wallace, they have a small part count and a relatively high build area compared to the machine's size. The build area is about 150mm x 150mm x 150mm. If you're interested, I could print out some parts for you?

Take a look at these:

[reprap.org]

[reprap.org]

Jordan

Thank you both! The Printrbot original or simple is looking like the way to go! Both seem like just the thing I assign looking for. And the printrbot seems to function in a similar manner to my engraving machines that I currently work with, so assembly and maintenance should be easy.

Now the very last thing is to find where to get one! But, with a name in mind, that should be easy to sort out.

Jordan: thank you for offering, but I think I'd rather find a whole kit... being that I haven't made or assembled one before, or even seen one in person, I have a feeling I'd buy all the wrong parts if I tried doing it all separately. I couldn't possibly trouble y'all to help me order EVERYTHING. XD But, I'll keep you in mind if it comes time that I need to start thinking of upgrading the size.

Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/13/2014 06:10PM by yohoki.