3D Printing at Pepperdine

Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing is the process of making a tangible, three dimensional object from a digital file. 3D printing allows for quick prototyping for engineers or entrepreneurs and new forms of artistic expression. Rolls of plastic, referred to as filament, are heated and extruded through the printer nozzle to build an object layer by layer.

The 3D printers at the Genesis Lab are open to the entire Pepperdine community free of charge. They are available for personal or academic use. To learn more about our 3D printing process, stop by the Genesis Lab (Payson 338) weekdays between 11 & 4 or email us at genesis.lab@pepperdine.edu.

How to get started

Finding a premade 3D model

You can search thingiverse.com for premade 3D models that are free to download. Simply find your model and come to the Genesis Lab, we can assist in downloading the files and starting the print.

Designing your own model

3D modeling is easier than you think! We advise starting with Tinkercad, a web-based 3D modeling software that takes less than 10 minutes to learn. Once your design is complete, come to the lab where we can help download and print it.

Learning the lingo

What exactly is 3D printing? Is it different from additive manufacturing? What is g-code? If you're looking for a quick primer on technology and terminology surrounding 3D printing, we suggest you take a look at this beginner's guide to 3D printing.

How-To Guides

Getting Started with the 3D Printer
Using the Genesis Lab’s 3D printer can seem intimidating, but fear not! Using this technology is
much simpler than you may think. In order to take advantage of the lab’s free 3D printing
service, follow theses instructions. We can’t wait to see what you create!
Shaped Box Tinkercad Tutorial
Making fun trinkets and practical items to 3D print is easy on Tinkercad! Try, for instance, making a small box in the shape of your choice to hold your personal items or to give as a homemade gift. Even the most inexperienced designer can craft this design in under ten minutes!
Keychains/Pendants Tinkercad Tutorial
Making a keychain or pendant on Tinkercad is easy! Any shape, when combined with a hole to thread your keyring or necklace chain through, can quickly become a fun accessory. To demonstrate, see three simple tutorials for a heart-shaped initial pendant, a duck-shaped charm, and finally, a keychain of a shape made entirely by you!

Genesis Lab Technology Use Policy

Purpose

The Genesis Lab provides a space for the Pepperdine Community to work, learn, and create together. This policy establishes guidelines for the use of the technology available through the Genesis Lab.

Policy

Our technology may only be used for lawful purposes. It may not be used to create material that is prohibited by local, state or federal law.

Our technology may not be used to create materials that are unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or pose an immediate threat to the safety and well-being of others.

Our technology is available free of charge to the Pepperdine community. Personal use is welcome (and encouraged!), but priority will be given to academic projects.

Ultimaker 3 Extended

Our Ultimaker 3 Extended has the largest print bed we have available with a build volume of 8.5 x 8.5 x 11.8 inches.

It offers dual extrusion, meaning we can print with two different filaments at once. If using dual extrusion, the build volume is 7.8 x 8.5 x 11.8 inches.

We supply PLA filament in a variety of colors.

More tech specs are available here.

Ultimaker 2+

Our Ultimaker 2+ has a build volume of 8.8 x 8.8 x 8.1 inches.

We supply PLA filament in a variety of colors.

More tech specs are available here.

Dremel 3D45

Our Dremel 3D45 has a 10 x 6 x 6.7 inches.

We supply PLA filament in a variety of colors.

More tech specs available here.