3D Printing
3D Printing
Opening a whole new world of possibilities.
The SDG Library now offers 3D printing services! Design your own 3D model at home using software like TinkerCAD, or choose from thousands of ready-made designs on sites like Thingiverse. Then, connect with one of our branches equipped with a 3D printer, and we’ll help turn your digital creation into a physical reality.
3D Printing Locations and Guidelines
The SDG Library currently offers 3D printing services at the Alexandria and Winchester branches, as well as at our dedicated MakerLab. In addition to our standard filament-based 3D printers, the MakerLab is also home to a resin printer, ideal for highly detailed prints.
Before visiting, we recommend contacting your chosen branch to confirm that the printer is available and in working order, as machines may occasionally be offline for maintenance or in use.
Printer Availability:
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Branch Hours: 3D printers are available during regular branch operating hours.
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Print Time Limits:
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Alexandria & Winchester: Maximum print time is approximately 4 hours per job.
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MakerLab: Longer print times are possible thanks to the Bambu Labs P1S printing capabilities.
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Important Notes:
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Print jobs are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
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All print requests are subject to approval based on time, material availability, and content suitability.
Please note that due to availability and duration of printing time, you may need to pick up your 3D print at a later date. Print priority is given to SDG Library cardholders.
Getting Started
To access MakerLab services at SDG Library:
- Book an appointment by contacting our MakerLab.
- Complete the MakerLab waiver.
*Please note that preference is given to SDG Library card holders
We can work with a number of 3D object file types, but we prefer .STL files. These files can be brought in on a USB stick or emailed to
3D Printing Costs & Materials
The SDG Library offers affordable 3D printing with a variety of material options:
PLA Filament (Plastic)
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Standard PLA: $0.10 per gram (GST included)
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Specialty PLA: $0.15 per gram
(Includes silk, ombre, and sparkle finishes. Colour availability may vary.)
PLA is ideal for beginners and general-purpose prints. However, please note:
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PLA is not UV- or water-resistant
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PLA is not food-safe
Resin Printing
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$0.50 per gram
(Currently available in grey only)
Note: The cost includes the weight of the model as well as any required support material.
Print Pick-Up & Payment
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Finished prints can be delivered to your preferred SDG Library location for convenient pick-up.
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You will be notified when your print is ready.
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Payment is due at pick-up, and can be made by cash, debit, or credit card.
3D Printing FAQs
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We currently have three 3D printers: two Ultimaker 2+ printers and one Ultimaker 3. Our printers are currently located at the following branches, but it's best to check with your branch of choice first before visiting to ensure the printer is there and in working order:
MakerLab -
We can work with a number of 3D object file types, but we prefer .STL files.
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The object must fit within the confines of the build area of the 3D printer, which is 223 x 223 x 205 mm. However, our maximum print time of 4 hours will usually be the main factor in print size allowances.
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All print jobs are subject to staff approval and we reserve the right to deny any print job. We will not print weapons, copyright-restricted designs, or anything that isn’t in keeping with our code of conduct. Also, some models are too complex for accurate printing, however we do our best to find a way to make a successful print.
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For prints chosen from our catalogue of tested 3D prints, contact your closest 3D printer equipped branch. You will be required to pay for the object when you collect it.
For specialty prints, contact the MakerLab. Staff will review the details of the job and provide you with a cost estimate. Once you provide your approval and acknowledgement of the cost, we will print the object. You will be required to pay for the object when you collect it.