We've had out 3Doodlers for a month now and I finally feel comfortable writing a short review of the product. If you're not familiar with the 3Doodler, check out the video link below for the newer 2.0 models:
Our studio invested in a few of the 2.0 because they were quieter and lighter and not too much more expensive than the older model. We currently have three of the 3D printing pens. We've used them for two classes and the our instructors have had a chance to play with them.
Here's what we've learned:
Here's what we've learned:
- It's really hard to draw in the air. They make it look easy on promo video; it's not.
- Like any art medium, there's a learning curve. The more we practiced with them, the better we became at controlling the plastic.
- We had the best luck "building" by creating flat pieces and the assembling them (see video below)
- The type of plastic matter. Some projects are great in ABS while others (like the butterfly below) worked much better in PLA. The 3Doodler 2.0 came with both.
- Dealing with mechanical issues...either jammed plastic and plastic not feeding correctly was incredibly time-consuming. Patience and persistence is required. Although there's no reason that young artists can't USE the pens to create, an adult would need to be present to keep things "flowing."
- Youtube is your best friend for troubleshooting
Check out the video of the butterfly Miss Allison made from a translucent blue PLA plastic:
Want to play with a 3Doodler?
Our Emerging Artists class which meets on Wednesdays nights will have access to use the 3Doodlers whenever they wish. We'll also be using them during many of our Camps and Makerspace Events!
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