A home 3D printer takes your digital designs and transforms them into physical objects you can use or display. Using printer filament, 3D printers build layers of plastic material that harden into the shapes you want. Depending on your design, a single object may be printed in one session or as multiple components that fit together.

To create the instructions for your 3D printer, you can import pre-made designs, create your own concepts in computer-aided design software or use a 3D scanner to turn everyday objects into digital models that you can copy or improve upon. Many online communities also offer free or paid libraries of printable files to help you get started.

When it comes to building materials, there are numerous 3D printing filament options available, each with its own pros and cons. You will want to research recommended filaments for your kinds of projects and understand your 3D printer’s capabilities when choosing printing filament. Some filaments are better suited for durability, flexibility or fine detail, so matching the material to the function of your print is key.

There are several key factors to consider when choosing the best 3D printer for your goals. First of all, you will need to make a choice about whether you want a 3D printer with a heated build platform. A heated platform is necessary to keep certain filaments from warping as they harden. There are also 3D printers with a heated chamber for even greater temperature control.

Some printers offer more than one resolution setting—measured in microns. Higher resolutions can be useful, but more detail also means longer print times, which can exceed twelve hours for complex designs. 3D printers with built-in cameras help you monitor a print job and create time-lapse videos of the process.

A no-assembly 3D printer could be the best 3D printer for beginners because it’s simple to set up. Handy 3D printer accessories include a filament dryer and a soft magnetic steel plate for easy object removal. With the right combination of features, materials, and tools, you’ll be able to bring your creative ideas to life with precision and confidence—whether you’re printing for fun, function or both.