Section outline

    • Here you will find the most common questions about working at the workshop.
      Use <Ctr+F> to search for a specific subject.

      If you can´t find the answer to your question, contact the Workshop Master.
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      • How long does it take to print a Model?

      Printing is a process that usually takes hours. It varies depending on the technology used, the level of detail, and the amount of support, infill, detail, among others. Larger and more precise models will take significantly longer, than the same model in a smaller scale or precision. You can always check the amount of time your print will take in the slicer, and change the setting if you need it to be ready faster.

      • I have already finished this online course. Can I start printing straight away?

      Before you start printing, you should present yourself to the workshop to  …..

      • Do I have to pay for using the machines at the wokshop?

      No. The use of the machinery at the Väre workshops is free of charge.

      • Do I have to pay for the materials I use?

      Most of the time, courses will allocate a budget for the material used by the students. In case your course does not have it, or you are printing something for your artistic projects outside the courses, you will have to pay for the material used. Ask your teacher beforehand to verify if you have to pay for it. If you have to pay, you will find the updated price list at the workshop.

      • I want to use a different filament than the one that is currently loaded in the printer. Can I change it myself?

      No. It is important that you ask the Workshop Master for any maintenance related issues regarding the machinery, including changing the filament from a machine.

      • Is it possible to book a machine for a specific date and time?

      Yes, it is possible to prebook a machine through the Aalto booking system HERE. After filling in the information about your projet, the workshop master will review your request and send you via email the approval of your booking. Note that you should make a prebooking at least with 24 hours of anticipation.

      • Can I use the machines for my personal projects?

      Väre workshops are open for study, research and artistic development related projects. If you need to print some personal/commercial related work, you might want to use a commercial printing service such as Shapeways https://www.shapeways.com/

      • When is the Workshop Master available for guiding me with my projects?

      The Workshop master is available for guidance during opening hours (Mon 1-4pm, Tue-Fri 9am-4pm). You can check if the workshop is being used by a course in the booking system.

      • Can I leave a print overnight?

      Yes, all our printers have an unattended work certificate.

      • Can I send my print to the Workshop master and he will print it for me?

      Väre workshops have a hands-on working spirit. In order to star a print, you should always be present. The Workshop Master does not receive printing models through email, unless agreed beforehand.

      • Can I use the machines during the weekend?

      In case your print will take very long, it is possible to print over the weekend. However, it is forbidden to start new prints during the weekend, unless you have agreed it with the workshop master beforehand.

      • Should I stay the whole time at the workshop while my model is being printed?

      You should verify that your model is being printed correctly, at least for the first and second layers. After that, you can leave and come back when the print is ready.

      • I need to paint and sand my 3d model. Can I do that here at the workshop?

      Väre has a specialized workshop for painting (Room XXXX) and Sanding tools at the Multimaterial Workshop (Room XXXX). Do not paint or sand at the 3D printing workshop.

      • The workshop is full and all the machines are being used. Is there any other place I can 3D print on campus?

      Yes, there are several locations where you can 3D print. FabLab, ADDLab, Design Factory, among others. Contact them in case you need to use their premises and machinery.

      • My work will finish printing soon, but I cannot come at pick it up right now. Can I leave it in the workshop for a while?

      It is advisable you come and pick up your printed pieces as soon as possible. If you can’t, please communicate with the Workshop Master to agree on a pickup time.

      • Where could I acquire more knowledge about CAD 3D modeling?

      If you are new to 3D printing, or just want to practice and learn more about it, the School has acquired some LinkedIn Licences that you can use. Please contact Ilpo Kari in order to learn more about this

      • Are there any repositories online to find printable models?

      We recommend you design your own models to print. However, there are many online repositories where you can find useful model for your projects. Thingiverse and TurboSquid are among the most popular ones.

      •  How can I connect directly Solidworks to Ultimaker Cura slicer?

      You can find the information on how to install the Cura plugin for Solidworks HERE.

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ixm2crbtCtg

      • My printing keeps on failing. What should I do?

      There are several reason why your printing may fail. First, you should check that the machine is well calibrated and its extruding material. If not, the failure could be linked to the original file, the geometry, or the way you have sliced it. It is important to check all the steps in order to diagnose where the error is and correct it. Ask the Workshop Master if you have any questions.

      • Can I use one of the 3D printers out of the workshop?

      No. Printers, as well as all the tools, are meant to be used inside the workshop. If you have a special project, contact the workshop master.