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FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro, Metal Frame Structure, Acrylic Covers, Optimized Build Platform, Dual Extruder W/2 Spools, Works with AB
I'm not going to tell you this is the best consumer 3D printer out there – because it probably isn't. However, after getting this 6 years ago, I can proudly say that it's been a workhorse for me. With about 14,000 hours of print time, the machine is still going strong. Ultimately, I only recommend this product because I haven't had any major trouble with it. If you're in the market for a 3D printer, do your research and find the brand and model that's best for you.
Innofil3D PLA Plus Filament, 3X Faster Printing Time – Dimensional Accuracy +/- 0.05, 750g spool, Natural White – Consistent Shape and Diam
I won a box full of Innofil3D filament in a design contest. I can honestly say, with its higher price point I may have never ventured off and tried it otherwise. Now, I purchase and use this brand of the filament when I have important prototypes to make – especially with working parts. (Otherwise, I use Hatchbox filament).
HATCHBOX PLA 3D Printer Filament, Dimensional Accuracy +/- 0.03 mm, 1 kg Spool, 1.75 mm, Black
By far the most affordable and reliable 3D printer filament to take the market (for consumer level printers). I’m not even going to say more…simply read its thousands of reviews.
ScotchBlue Painter’s Tape, Multi-Use, 1.88-Inch by 60-Yard, 1 Roll
If you’re new to 3D printing, then you’ll soon find that adhesion to the build plate is an important achievement. This Blue painter’s tape will help the first layer stick better, saving your model from warping. I find that this cheap blue painter’s tape works better than all the branded solutions. This wide roll also makes it easy to lay down a few strips and be done with it.
Hyde Tools FBA_6108 06108 Pro 1-1/2-Inch Flexible Putty Knife, Stainless Tool, 1-1/2″
A nice heavy-duty yet flexible putty knife makes all the difference in popping those 3D prints off the printer’s build plate. I’ve found this putty knife to be the right amount of stiffness/flexibility.
X-Acto Xacto X5282 Basic Knife Set
This X-Acto knife set is a life-saver when it comes to deburring and shaving off those pesky 3D print strands. Having a series of blades to choose from has made all the difference. Save yourself a headache and get this kit instead of just the #2 knife. You’ll thank yourself when you need the smaller blades.
Stanley 84-096 5-Inch Needle Nose Plier
I used to always get my pliers out of my toolbox to pull the rafts or brims off of prints. Finally, I decided to get myself a second pair to leave it next to my printer. Don’t hesitate to pick up a second pair, you’ll love having a nice clean pair set aside specifically for 3D prints.
Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper Stainless Steel Body with Large LCD Screen | 0 – 6 Inches | Inch/Fractions/Millimeter Conversion
The most useful product when reverse-engineering products. This isn’t the best caliper out there…but it’s the best bang for your buck. I’ve had this caliper for 6 years and its still going strong. I’ve only had to replace the (cheap “watch”) battery once.
AUMELO Tweezers Set 4-Piece Professional Stainless Steel Tweezers Gift with Travel Case by Aumelo – Best Precision Eyebrow and Splinter Ing
Just like the X-Axcto knife kit, I never thought I’d find myself using these so much to “clean up” my prints. I originally stumbled upon this set and was happy to see that various end types, which have been super handy in those little nooks and crannies.
FRIMOONY 54pcs Wet Dry Sandpaper Assorted 3000/2500/2000/1500/1200/1000 Grit for Automotive Sanding by V-story
I’ve found fine-wet/dry sandpaper to be a huge help when trying to smooth rough edges on 3D prints. If you haven’t already, you’ll want to give this a shot! I find this works best dry…but the fine grits (2000+) in this bundle work wonders.
TEKTON Hex Key Wrench Set, Inch/Metric, 30-Piece | 25253
A good Hex Key set will go a long way in the world of 3D printing. Just about every printer uses a series of hex bolts to hold the printer together. You will need to periodically re-tighten the screws of the gantry and stepper motors of your 3D printer.
Etekcity Lasergrip 774 Non-contact Digital Laser Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun -58℉~ 716℉ (-50℃ ~ 380℃), Yellow and Black
I owe this product recommendation to a good friend of mine. I snagged myself one after he showed me how he used this to check the actual temperature of build plates and other printer parts. If you don’t have one of these, I think you’ll find it useful in other DIY scenarios as well.
Sharpie Permanent Markers, Fine Point, Black, 12 Count
Having plenty of markers/sharpies is helpful to mark 3D prints, especially when running multiple prints of the same model but with different slicer settings. Write down the sequence and settings for each print and mark the finished objects accordingly. Trust me, later on, you'll be thankful you did.