How to 3D Print a Squirrel on the Makerbot Replicator

ReplicatorG

ReplicatorG is the software to use to load, place, and prepare your 3d models for printing on the MakerBot Replicator. Download Download ReplicatorG from replicat.org.

Download the Model

• Download the MBCook Squirrel from Thingaverse and open it in ReplicatorG. You want the Squirrel.stl file.

Place the Model

It is a good idea to center and "put on platform" models before slicing. Move the model on the platform by going to Move >> Put on platform

Slicing

Slicing is the process of converting a 3d model into a tool path for the 3d print head to follow. To slice in ReplicatorG, click the 4th button from the left on the top, called "Model to GCode".

• When the "Generate GCode" window appears.
  • Make sure Slicing Profile is Replicator slicing defaults.
  • Select Use Right extruder.
• Press the "Generate Gcode" button.
• If you get the warning that you are using acceleration settings, it is safe to ignore. The firmware on the Makerbot Replicator is able to handle acceleration.

Slicing can take some time, the more complicated the model, the more time it will take.

Copy to SD Card

1. Click the Build to file for use with sd card.
   1. Save it to squirrel.x3g to your filesytem.
   2. Make sure the filename is not longer thant 27 characters or else it won't show up on the printer.
2. Grab an sd card from near the Makerbot Replicator.
3. Plug it into your computer.
4. Copy Squirrel.x3g to the root of the sd card.

Print from SD Card

1. Go over to the Makerbot Replicator and insert your SD card.
2. Select Build from SD Card.
3. Scroll down until you see squirrel.x3g and select it.

The printer will start its preheat sequence and start printing a squirrel.

Weigh and Pay

There is a recomendation of putting in $0.06 per gram used in order to buy more filament.

1. Put you freshly minted squirrel on the scale.
2. Multiply its weight in grams by $0.06 and drop that much (or about) in the black change container.