How to Get an STL File to a 3D Printer

In this, we will go over how to get an STL file (A 3D file) to an Ender 3 printer.

1 Micro or Normal SD card (Depending on printer).

Device with an SD card slot.

Device that supports Prusa Slicer.

Working 3D printer of your choice, we will be using an ender 3.

Download a software named Prusa Slicer. Once it downloads, follow the directions in the executable file to install the program. Launch the program and continue to the next step.

On the top right of the screen where it says printer, make sure it is set to the printer you are using, for this we will be setting it to the Ender 3. If you do not see it, go to add new printer, add a preset, and find your printer by brand. Once this is done, your main area should match your printer bed.

Drag your STL file into the program. You should see your object appear on the printer bed. On the top right of the screen, there are multiple buttons that all have their own use. The first one is the Print Settings, this will modify the quality vs speed that your printer will print. The lower the mm the slower, but it is higher quality. If it is a higher mm number then it will go faster, however will lack quality. The next option is Filament, this will be set for your type of filament. For this instructable we will be using Prusament PLA filament. Past the printer section is supports, this will modify the supports on your print. If your print has an overhang, you will need supports (See picture below). And the last option, Infill. This is the amount of filament that is inside of your print, the higher number the longer it will take, but the more stable it will be.

You are now ready to slice your print. You will click the slice now button in the bottom right hand corner (See Picture). It will take a second, after it is complete you are ready for your SD/micro SD card. You will need an SD card with enough space to hold your print. Your printer most likely comes with one, if not you can order them here. You will also need a device with an SD card slot, if you do not have one of these devices, you will need a converter. You can order a convertor here (This will only work on devices with USB ports).

Once the file is saved to your SD card, you need to locate the SD card slot on your printer. On the Ender 3, it is on the front bottom left, right below a fan. You will insert the SD card and move to the screen of your printer, we will describe how to do it on the Ender 3 however this is a similar concept between printers. Click down on the nob and scroll to print from TF. Look for your file, it will be under what ever name you saved it as. Select that print by clicking the nob once more. The printer will begin heating up, be carful around the nozzle and print bed as they will get very warm, this is true for any printer. Filament will start feeding through the nozzle once its warm enough and it should begin printing. After this ensure to monitor it, then one the print is complete, remove it from the print bed. Good job, you made a successful print.