The 3D printer is scheduled to arrive tomorrow. I have some time to explain the reason I have chosen a Do It Yourself (DIY) machine. The reasons are my own and good for me. I am not suggesting they are the correct choice for anyone else. I think if I explain them, then it is just  a little more food for thought for anyone else considering getting involved in 3D printing.

It should be obvious from this web site that I am a person who wants to know how things are made and how they work. so here is a list of my first (getting started) machine requirements:

• Open modifiable design
• Easy to see and service components
• No secret or proprietary parts or software
• design in the spirit of REPRAP
• DIY preferred assembly
• Reasonable build area and volume
• Non intimidating initial cost
• Heated platform
• Reasonable printing accuracy

If I desired or needed the perfect machine the list would be much different. I understand the limitations of my choices, especially as it applies to cost verses performance. So here are the main goals of my plan:

• Advance from observer to participant
• Hands on learning experience
• Explore useful application for low end 3D printed items.
• HAVE SOME FUN

The first and last listed goals are the most important for me.  The third goal is also important as I understand the usefulness of the 3D PRINT concept, but application of useful real world output from low end machines should be an interesting challenge. That doesn't mean I am not going to be making my share of baubles, bangles and beads from low-res plastic. Perhaps I have the order of the list inverted...

I left the machine purchase cost open for most of my search and purchase decision process. I had a range into the over $1k bracket in mind. What I discovered is the higher the cost, the more proprietary the designs became. There is a get-what-you-pay-for consideration, but there is an inescapable output quality limitation inherent in a filament extrusion heated nozzle design. Motion stability is critical and that is what the higher investment (should) provide but the traveling glue gun nozzle is still the technical limitation. 

A 3D printer suitable for my jewelry work, where I can presently accurately machine wax in 0.001" increments, is far out of my reach (budget). So that kind of expectation was not considered for my first machine. 

3D Printing for Fun

For me 3D printing is not a career path. Blow away all the smoke and remove the mirrors and the bottom line is I am getting involved for the fun of it. It really is a toy for me. I placed having fun at the bottom of my goal list as it really is the bottom line. If I get anything from this experience it will be some fun.

To me DIY assembly of the machine is all part of the fun. I like to build things. The benefit is that is does save some cost. In my opinion too many people purchase DIY because of the lower cost but are inept at detailed assembly. The old Christmas morning assemble the kids toys problem. DIY is not for everyone.

Is there any requirement that I make something specific from this first machine? Actually no. The goal is learning and fun. Then discover applications for what can be produced. Something just for show is perfectly fine.