Flashprint Software Exploration Activity

Objective - To learn to load, manipulate, and save .stl files within the FlashPrint software for printing on the FlashForge Dreamer 3D printer.


Task 1 - Find, download, and extract an existing STL file.

1. Go to http://www.thingiverse.com in another browser tab.
2. Search for a relatively simple object that *could* be printed. These files are solely for learning how to use the FlashPrint software. We will not be printing them.
   
3. Download the "Thing Files."
4. Open the Downloads folder on the computer.
5. Locate the file you just downloaded. It will be a .zip file.
   
6. Open the .zip file and click "Extract All Files".
7. Change the file path to the 3D Files folder on the desktop.
8. Proceed to unzip the file.

Task 2 - Open, manipulate, and save your STL file.

1. Open the program "FlashPrint".
2. Click the blue "Load" button at the top of the screen.
3. Select the file you downloaded to the 3D files folder on the desktop.
4. Explore manipulating and changing the file scale and position using the MOVE, ROTATE, and SCALE your object.
5. Also use the following commands on your object:

                       a) Edit ----> Surface to Platfom  ----->  Double click on any surface of your object, then click Back
                       b) View ----> Show Model Outline
                       c) View -----> Show Steep Overhang
     6.    Save your edited file as "Your Name Object Name".
     7.    Upload your saved file to your classes' AT SharePoint folder.