3D Making

Maker Playground’s 3D Making classes utilize the space’s 3D printing lab to offer three different class types: 3D Printing, Intro to 3D Modeling, and Intro to Solidworks. All classes will be hosted at Fishers Parks’ Maker Playground facility at 8100 E. 106th Street, Fishers, IN 46038.

• 3D Printing
• Intro to 3D Modeling
• Intro to Solidworks

3D PRINTING

Learn the basics of 3D printing and how to slice and print pre-made models with Maker Playground’s 3D printers. We’ll cover a little history, general 3D printing info, materials, machine safety and operation, and what it takes to produce a successful print on our specific machines. Participants will see the setup and process of printing a small object on our 3D printers to take home!

INTRO TO 3D MODELING

This beginner-friendly class introduces two popular 3D modeling tools used at Maker Playground: Tinkercad and SketchUp Free. Participants will learn when and why to use each platform, with hands-on time focused on real projects.

The first half of the class covers Tinkercad for simple, functional 3D prints such as boxes, organizers, and small parts. The second half focuses on SketchUp Free for furniture-style design, proportions, and layout.

For many participants, this class will be all they need to confidently work in 3D. It provides the practical tools to create simple 3D prints as well as layouts and models using Tinkercad and SketchUp Free. While this class does not aim to make participants experts in either platform, it gives them enough hands-on experience to continue practicing on their own and begin completing real projects right away. Participants who are interested in precision 3D modeling or designing components that fit together may choose to continue on to Intro to SolidWorks after completing this class.

INTRO TO SOLIDWORKS

Maker Playground’s Intro to Solidworks CAD course is intended to build upon knowlege introduced in the “Intro to 3D Modeling” course. This course covers the basic functions required to begin using Solidworks as a tool to bring more technical design concepts to life. Students will learn how to navigate the software to create simple parts and assemblies. Maker Playground membership includes access to Solidworks, and Members can access Solidworks by checking out a designated laptop. 

---