What Can You Make?
A 3D Printer creates a physical, 3-dimensional model of a digital design by building the model layer by layer. It works by heating and melting filament through an extruder to build each layer, like a more precise glue gun. Here are some projects that showcase just a few possibilities:
Where is this Equipment Available?
Every ideaLAB has at least one Bambu Lab P2S Printer. Please visit each location page for current availability.
- Central Library ideaLAB
- Hadley Branch ideaLAB
- Montbello Branch ideaLAB
- Rodolfo “Corky” Gonzales Branch ideaLAB
- Sam Gary Branch ideaLAB
- Hampden Branch ideaLAB - Currently closed for bond renovations
How It Works
Prepare Your Design
3D Printers use digital model files.
- Find models on sites like printables.com, thingiverse.com, or make your own using tools like tinkercad.com
- Download your model as a .STL file
You may prepare your file before your visit or during your reservation.
Reserve Your Time
Use of the 3D printer is primarily by reservation.
- Reservations are 2 hours, once per week
- Reservations can be made up to 2 weeks in advance
- A Denver Public Library card is required
- Call or visit one of the available branches above to book your session.
Create!
- Staff will help you get started and prepare your file
- Your model will be "sliced" using printer software so it can be read by the machine
- Monitor your print throughout the session
- Set-up and clean-up time are part of your 2-hour reservation
Approved and Available Materials
The library provides PLA filament for all 3D printing.
- Filament is provided free of charge
- Users may not bring their own filament
- Colors cannot be swapped and specific colors are not guaranteed
PLA is a durable, beginner-friendly plastic commonly used for a wide range of projects.
Reservation Use and Policies
To ensure safe and fair access:
- Check in with ideaLAB staff before using the machine
- Late arrivals: reservations are canceled after 10 minutes.
- If a printer is unavailable due to maintenance, staff will notify you when possible
- Do not attempt to repair or disassemble printer hardware
- Using unapproved filament or removing parts will result in loss of privileges
3D printers may not be used to produce weapons. The library reserves the right to refuse any print request.
Prints must finish before the end of your reservation. Jobs cannot be left running overnight or past your session time.
Safety Waiver
Use of ideaLAB equipment requires agreement to Behavior Agreement and Advisement of Potential Risks Associated with Use of Tools at the Denver Public Library