3D printing has many uses, from making inexpensive prototypes to supporting research and offering fun ways to explore and create. 3D printing opens the door to hands-on learning and experimentation. Students, researchers, and makers can design models, test ideas, or create custom parts for projects.
The process starts with a digital model, usually designed in CAD software or downloaded from a 3D model site. That file is then “sliced” into layers which tells the printer exactly how to create each section. Using materials such as plastic filament or resin, the printer slowly builds the object layer by layer until the design is complete. 
The DSL has a 3D scanner, 3D printers, and 3D modeling and design software options available for use. Our student technicians are experienced in using the equipment and software, and available to help get you started. Whether you just want to explore the technology and see what you can create, or if you have specific ideas in mind, you'll find the tools you need here in our lab.
The Bambu A1 is a user-friendly 3D printer with an open design that makes it easy to monitor prints and access the build area. It’s quieter and more compact, perfect for beginners or small spaces. The A1 offers straightforward setup and maintenance, making it ideal for everyday printing and simple projects.
The maximum dimensions for printing on the A1 are:
The A1 is limited to printing in PLA, PETG, and TPU filaments. It can print up to two colors of the same type of filament in a single print, but this can significantly increase the length of printing time and the amount of filament used.
The Bambu X1 Carbon is an advanced 3D printer with a closed build chamber, auto-calibration, and support for stronger materials. It prints faster and more accurately, and handles multi-material printing better, making it ideal for high-quality, low-hassle projects.
The maximum dimensions for printing on the X1s are:
The X1s are able to print in a wider variety of filament types, including: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, Nylon, Polycarbonate, and more.
Using the AMS, the X1 series can switch between up to four different filament colors during a single print but this can significantly increase the length of printing time and the amount of filament used.
The DSL at Foley Library has the following filaments available for printing:
PLA is the most common type of 3D printing filament. It's best for beginners, design or art prints, and prototyping.
In Stock
PLA Basic: smooth, slight gloss finish
Colors: Bambu Green, Black, Blue, Brown, Cobalt Blue, Gold, Jade White, Mistletoe Green, Red
PLA Silk: high-gloss finish
Colors: Candy Red, Blue, Silver, Aurora Purple (blue/purple multicolor)
PLA Sparkle: glitter effect
Colors: Classic Gold, Royal Purple
PLA Translucent: semi-clear or frosted appearance
Colors: Ice Blue, Red
In addition to the standard PLA filaments, there are also specialized filaments with specific use-cases or features.
In Stock
PLA-CF: a carbon-fiber infused filament that is best for prints where rigidity and dimensional accuracy or precision are required; brittle under stress or impact and not resistant to heat above 60°C
Colors: Black
PETG-CF: a carbon-fiber infused filament that is stronger and more flexible than PLA-CF and has a higher heat resistance (80°C); best for prints that will be exposed to heat, chemicals, or are at risk of impact
Colors: Brick Red
PAHT-CF: a nylon and carbon-fiber infused filament that is extremely strong, stiff, and durable with a heat resistance of up to 150°C; recommended for functional or high-performance end-use mechanical or structural components
Colors: Black
The DSL will permit the use of personal filaments (filament purchased and supplied by the user). However, there will still be a machine usage fee based on the duration of the print (in hours).
Any personal filament use must be approved by DSL employees. We will ask you to provide a sample for us to test in the printer before we can approve it.
The DSL reserves the right to disallow the use of filament that is not compatible with our printers.
| Filament Type | Cost |
| PLA (Basic, Matte, Silk, etc.) | $0.05 per gram |
| PLA-CF / PETG-CF | $0.07 per gram |
| PAHT-CF | $0.12 per gram |
| Personal Filament | $0.03 per hour |
The cost of a 3D print is based on the weight of filament used (in grams). In order to calculate how many grams will be used, we need the file to be printed and to know what dimensions and type of filament will be used. With that information, we will slice the file and be able to provide you with an estimate of the cost.
Each file is unique, and files or objects that are similar in size can have large differences in the amount of filament used due to the need for supports, the intended strength or durability of the printed item, the density of infill material, etc.
Some things that will affect the final cost of your print are:
The students and staff in the DSL can recommend appropriate settings for your print that will result in a successful print at an affordable cost.
You can use the 3D printing service by making a request to the lab, either in person or by emailing us. You'll need to have the file(s) you want printed so that they can be sliced. You should also have an idea of the dimensions for the printed object.
Our standard filament is PLA, which is good for artistic/creative prints, but if you anticipate needing an object to be more durable, you should note that in your request.
Once you make your request and we have all the necessary information, we'll follow these steps:
Click the info icon ⓘ for definitions.