Recommendation for a kit to build my first 3d printer.

I would like some recommendations on a kit so I can build a 3d printer. would it be possible to build one with similar resolution as the robox? I was looking into the reprap prusa i3 models.

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Robert Peter Oakes over 9 years ago in reply to Workshopshed +3

Or even much more complex objects like this Most of the parts for the Thorn gun from the game Destiny and as you say, it sucks when it fails part through
bobthechemist over 10 years ago +2

Hi, Looks like I'm late to the party, but I thought I'd chime in. I purchased a makerfarm i3v 8" model at the beginning of the summer. I went with a kit primarily for the opportunity to build something…
Workshopshed over 10 years ago +1

Hi James, I don't have any specific recommendations but some thoughts on the factors to consider. I think there are 4 key reasons to want to build a kit you enjoy building stuff you can learn more about…

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Workshopshed over 10 years ago
Hi James, I don't have any specific recommendations but some thoughts on the factors to consider.

I think there are 4 key reasons to want to build a kit
you enjoy building stuff
you can learn more about the system as you build it
it might be cheaper (this does not always seem to be the case)
you want to enhance the system in future.

Based on this these are the factors you want to be reviewing against:

Head temperature (this will affect what materials you can print)

Size?
Time to build (are there any pre-assembled parts or is it just a box of raw materials)?
Price, some of the kits seem more expensive than off the shelf printers?
Linear bearings vs bushes, this affects the quality of prints, bearings are better but a bit more expensive
Features included, end stops, displays, fans
Material (wood, metal, printed parts) this could affect it's long term durability and robustness.
Can it be enhanced/adapted in future?
Does the controller board have capability to add fans or heated beds at a later date?
Does it use proprietary or open software, and specifically does that software work on your computer?
Speed of printing

TweakTown's Guide to 3D Printing: Part 2 - 3D Printer Kit Selection - What to look for in a DIY 3D Printer kit?
http://www.3ders.org/pricecompare/3dprinters/
How to build a 3D printer from scratch | 3D Printing from scratch
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majorkuso over 10 years ago in reply to Workshopshed

Thank you for the advice does anyone have any feedback on any kits they have built?
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robblain over 10 years ago in reply to majorkuso

I am just finishing building the Vellaman Vertex K8400 and am very pleased, the unit sells for around $1100 (CDN) and the second head kit is under $300. I would recommend this printer.
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robblain over 10 years ago in reply to majorkuso

I am just finishing building the Vellaman Vertex K8400 and am very pleased, the unit sells for around $1100 (CDN) and the second head kit is under $300. I would recommend this printer.
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Workshopshed over 10 years ago in reply to robblain

Here's some test prints
http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:533472
http://www.3ders.org/articles/20150410-test-and-calibrate-your-3d-printer-capacities-with-the-3dbency-test-project.html

And some challenges (you might need to tweek the settings to get these ones to print)
http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:11759
http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:10398
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Former Member over 10 years ago in reply to Workshopshed

It's very nice!
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