Last updated: February 2026 (Quarterly updates planned) Buying a 3D printer in 2026 is easier than it used to be—but choosing the right printer is more confusing than ever. The best printer for tabletop miniatures is rarely the best printer for jigs and fixtures, and the best “fast” printer can still be a headache if […]
Last updated: February 15, 2026 Executive summary MyMiniFactory has acquired 100% of Thingiverse from UltiMaker and is bringing it under the SoulCrafted umbrella—positioning the move as a creator-first pivot against AI-generated content flooding digital platforms. What was announced (verified facts) On February 12, 2026, MyMiniFactory announced it acquired 100% of Thingiverse from UltiMaker. The announcement […]
Acetone vapor smoothing eliminates visible layer lines on ABS and ASA 3D prints through controlled chemical vapor exposure, achieving 72-81% surface roughness reduction and an injection-molded appearance in just 10-60 minutes. This post-processing technique transforms rough, striated prints into glossy, professional-looking parts—but only when done correctly with proper safety protocols. Whether you’re printing functional prototypes, […]
Understanding Special 3D Printing Materials Specialty materials in 3D printing unlock possibilities that standard materials can’t achieve. While these special 3d printing materials often require more expertise and specialized equipment, their unique properties make them essential for specific applications across various industries. Material Quick Reference Table Material Min. Wall Thickness Resolution Price Best For Key […]
At Smith3D, we’ve helped thousands of clients navigate these choices, from architects crafting detailed models to engineers developing functional prototypes. This comprehensive guide draws from our real-world experience to help you make informed decisions about available colourful 3D Printing Options. Understanding Multi Material vs Multi Colour In the world of 3D printing, “multi-material” and “multi-colour” […]
Understanding 3D printing materials is crucial for project success. At Smith3D, we’ve helped thousands of clients navigate these choices, from architects crafting detailed models to engineers developing functional prototypes. This comprehensive guide draws from our real-world experience to help you make informed decisions about materials. Understanding 3D Printing Technologies Two primary technologies dominate the 3D […]
When printing larger items, some users of the A1 and A1 Mini series 3D printers have reported frequent clogging due to motor overheat. This issue can be particularly frustrating, as it affects print quality, especially during extended or more complex jobs. After testing multiple printers, we discovered that only one out of four units exhibited […]
Have you ever wondered what to do when your Anycubic Photon M3 Premium LCD becomes unavailable and you’re in need of a screen replacement? The good news is that the ELEGOO Saturn 2 LCD is a suitable replacement! Both the Saturn 2 and the M3 Premium use 8K screens, but there are a few key […]
When you think about 3D printing, you might picture big machines and fancy software. But there’s a small tool that’s just as important: tweezers. These little helpers might not look like much, but they can really improve your 3D printing. Whether you’re new to 3D printing or you’ve been doing it for years, knowing how […]
Introduction In an era where technology seamlessly intertwines with creativity, fostering innovative skills in children and students is paramount. Traditional art tools like crayons and markers have long been staples in classrooms and homes, but the advent of 3D pens has revolutionized the way young minds can express their creativity. Unlike 3D printers, which often […]