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First Steps in 3D Printing (FDM)

First Steps in 3D Printing (FDM)

The definitive guide to get started now — with PLA and PETG FIL3D®

3D printing is literally about turning ideas into objects.
If you're just starting out, this guide takes you from scratch to your first well-made part — with a focus on FDM technology and PLA and PETG materials. FIL3D® (brand of TUCAB®).

What is FDM 3D printing? (in 30 seconds)

  • The printer heats a filament (PLA, PETG, etc.), pushes it through a nozzle and draws thin layers one over the other.

  • The 3D file is “sliced” by a program (the slicer) and transformed into G-code, which tells the printer where and how much to extrude.

  • Result: from a digital model, a physical object is born — in a few hours.

 Why FDM in the first place?
It is the most accessible, safe, and secure technology. with a large community and economical filaments — and already allows for beautiful and functional parts.

Which printer to choose?

For end consumers, start with the reliable basics:

  • Cartesian FDM (Ender/Prusa style): simple, robust, lots of support content.

  • With bed heated (essential for PETG).

  • Useful volume ~220×220×250 mm fits most projects.

  • Bonus: removable printing surface (PEI/textured glass) and self-leveling.

 Buying tip
Don’t just look at “maximum speed”. Focus on stability, support and community. A stable printer prints better and more predictably.

What you need to get started (quick checklist)

Hardware

  • FDM printer with heated bed

  • 1 roll PLA FIL3D® (1.75 mm) for learn

  • Optional: 1 roll PETG FIL3D® for more resistant parts

  • Fine spatula, cutting pliers, nozzle cleaning needles

  • SD card/pendrive (or USB/Wi-Fi connection)

Software

  • Slicer free (Cura or PrusaSlicer)

  • 3D models (you can start with online libraries)

Space & safety

  • Stable table, ventilated place

  • Avoid contact with hot parts (nozzle/bed)

  • Keep out of reach of children/animals during printing

Materials: PLA vs PETG (which one to use and when)

PLA FIL3D® — the beginner's friend

Why use: prints at low temperatures, almost does not deform, smells little, has a great finish.
Where it shines: decoration, prototypes, static pieces, toys, models, light utilities.

Start-up parameters:

  • Nozzle: 200–210°C

  • Bed: 50–60°C

  • Part fan: on (80–100%)


Attention: softens ~60°C (cars in the sun, hot water) and it is more rigid than tenacious (breaks on strong impact).

PETG FIL3D® — the next step, robust and versatile

Why use: resists better to impact, heat (≈80 °C) and the outdoors; It is low-toxic and glues very well between layers.
Where it shines: functional parts, supports, connectors, boxes, semi-exterior uses, parts with screws.

Start-up parameters:

  • Nozzle: 235–245 °C

  • Bed: 65–75 °C

  • Part fan: moderate (20–40%)


Attention: tends to cause stringing (wires). Uses right shrinkage and temperatures. On PEI/glass it can stick too much: apply thin glue stick as a “release layer”.

 Sustainability


Both FIL3D® filaments are manufactured in Portugal with strict dimensional control. Less waste, more consistent parts.

Perfect first print in 20 minutes (step by step)

  1. Prepare the machine (5 min)

  • Assemble and check screws/belts.

  • Connect bed and nozzle to material temperatures.

  • Leveling: use the sheet of paper method on the 4 corners + center (it should “scrape” lightly).

  • Clean the surface (isopropyl alcohol if it is glass/PEI).

  1. Slice a simple model (5 min)

  • Open slicer → select “generic PLA” (or “generic PETG”).

  • Layer height: 0.2 mm (ideal balance).

  • Infill: 15–20%.

  • Adhesion: enable 5mm brim if you're just starting out.

  • Exports G-code.

  1. Print and adjust (10 min +)

  • Just watch the first layer.

    • If the line does not stick → brings the nozzle closer to the bed by 0.02–0.05 mm.

    • If it “scrapes” and crushes the filament → moves 0.02–0.05 mm away.

  • After the 2nd/3rd layer, relax — the rest is patience

 If the first layer is smooth, continuous and flawless, you are already 80% of the way to a good result.

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them in the first place)

  • Ask for peeling in the corners → cold/dirty bed, first layer high.
    Solutions: clean the bed, raise 5 °C, use brim, re-leveling.

  • Stringing in PETG → high temperature, low shrinkage.
    Solutions: lower 5–10°C, increase shrinkage (4–6 mm in Bowden; 0.8–1.2 mm in direct drive), fan 25–40%.

  • Layer shift → loose belts/impact on the part.
    Solutions: tension belts, fix the part better, reduce speed.

  • Sub-extrusion (flawed walls) → nozzle semi-clogged/moisture in filament.
    Solutions: clean nozzle (cold pull), dry filament, confirm temperature.

  • “Salmon skin” surface/vibration → high speed/acceleration.
    Solutions: reduce speed to 40–60 mm/s; tightens structure.

Minimal maintenance that avoids headaches

  • Level from time to time (or whenever you change the surface).

  • Clean the nozzle regularly; Use cleaning filament when changing materials.

  • Lubricate shafts/bearings lightly every 2–3 months.

  • Store filaments in bag with silica (PETG thanks you).

  • Update firmware only when recommended by the manufacturer.

Useful projects to get started (and gain confidence)

  • Organization hacks: cell phone holders, drawer dividers, cable clips, hooks. (PLA)

  • Simple functional parts: covers, spacers, hinges, tabs, wall brackets. (PETG)

  • Education/creativity: models, puzzles, miniatures, cookie molds, translucent lamps. (PLA/PETG)

  • Quick fixes: drawer handles, appliance knobs, lost lids — customize and print.

 Rule of thumb:


PLA to learn and improve.


PETG to last and withstand use.

Recommended startup parameters (summary)

MaterialNozzleBedPart fanLayer heightRemarks
PLA FIL3D®200–210 °C50–60 °C80–100%0.20 mmEasy, stable, great finish
PETG FIL3D®235–245 °C65–75 °C20–40%0.20 mmSturdy; use glue stick on PEI/glass


Final checklist before loading into “Print”

  •  Clean and level bed

  •  Filament dry and well fed

  •  Correct profile on slicer (PLA/PETG)

  •  First layer checked live

  •  No direct drafts in the printer

  •  Patience — the printer does the rest

Bottom line: print, learn, repeat.

3D printing is a delightful cycle of curiosity → trial → adjustment → achievement.
With a stable FDM, PLA FIL3D® to master the basics and PETG FIL3D® for robust parts, you have everything to go from idea to object without complications.

When the first piece comes out perfect, you will realize: the limit is now your imagination.

FIL3D® – High quality 3D Printing Filaments, manufactured in Portugal.

TUCAB® – Since 1996.

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