3D Printing Basics

Recognize the most common FDM print defects by name so you can look up the right fix.

PLA, PETG, ABS/ASA, TPU and nylon — what each is good for and how to print it.

What layer height, infill, speed, retraction, and cooling settings actually do — and how to prioritize which to tune.

Get prints to stick reliably, whatever bed surface or filament you're using, and remove them without damage.

A practical comparison of open-frame vs enclosed printers, and where the machines covered on this site fit.