Registration for August programs is temporarily unavailable Thursday, August 1 at 9 pm – Sunday, August 4 due to software improvements. Registration re-opens Monday, August 5.

3D Printer

The Launch Pad has two Prusa i3 3D printers. 3D models are printed using PLA (polyactic acid) which is a biodegradable plastic from plant-based sources.

A registered library card in good standing is required to submit a 3D print.

3D Print Form        3D Printing Information

3D Printing Software

There are many other 3D design softwares available such as Blender and AutoCAD, but ITPLD recommends starting with TinkerCAD if you’re new to 3D printing.
 
 

3D Model resources

Learning Resources

Free Weekly Supply List

Free supplies are available for ITPLD library members, as well as reciprocal members with cards in good standing. Members are limited to 2 items each week taken from the Supplies List. No items will be sold through the Launch Pad. The week begins on Monday and ends on Sunday.

Supplies List

How does 3d printing work?

Our 3D printers use plastic filament to print models. A program is used to slice the digital model into 2D cross sections like a stack of paper. The printer’s extruder heats up the plastic, similar to a hot glue gun, then extrudes the plastic in paper thin layers, building one upon the other.

 

ASSISTIVE TOOLS

Assistive tools are devices that help people perform everyday tasks more easily, such as carrying bags or opening bottles. Our print models were provided by Makers Making Change.

Tube Opener
A tool used to help open tubes or small lids for anyone that has difficulty gripping and twisting caps.

Signature Guide 
This aid provides a guide to write in a specific spot for purposes like writing a name, signature, or initials.

Bag Carrier
The wide, rounded grip of this tool helps when carrying plastic and reusable bags. Can be used in hand or attached to the side of a wheelchair. Available sizes: small, medium and large.

Bottle Opener
A handheld tool to open or close plastic screw-on caps on various beverage bottles, cleaning products and condiments. Available sizes: small, medium, large.

Milk Carton Opener
The Milk Carton Opener is an aid that enables users with limited grip strength to open tetra pak cartons, including 2L cartons such as the ones used for milk and juice.

Pencil Grip
If you find holding a pencil difficult, the Assistive Pencil Grip provides a larger grip so you can write comfortably.