Building a physical object layer by layer from a model.
A starting point
3D printing is additive manufacturing: material is added to form a part. A common workshop printer melts plastic filament through a nozzle and lays it down in layers. Other processes use different materials and methods, such as curing liquid resin with light.
A slicer converts the model into layers and machine instructions. Orientation, layer height, walls, infill and supports affect printing time, surface finish and strength. Printed parts do not necessarily have equal strength in every direction. The process is useful for prototypes, enclosures, brackets and jigs; a small fit test often teaches more than a long first print.