It’s actually quite simple, really.

So you’re considering buying a 3D printing pen. You’ve read all about them in reviews, and have seen some interesting videos all over social media. You are, however, still curious as how to operate one – especially how to keep the ink and structures standing. Fortunately, we’re here to break down how you can operate your 3D pens, so you can finally find the best 3D pen for you.

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1. Choose your filament

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If you’ve used a glue gun, you might find the same principles apply to 3D pens. However, while most glue guns make use of the same translucent filaments, you get to be more creative when it comes to these pens. The plastic filaments used for “ink” come in different colors, which can be very handy if you’re making models. After all, it’s not just about choosing the best 3D pen; it’s also about what you put in it.

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2. Insert it into the unit

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After choosing the colors you want, insert your priority filament into the 3D pen like you would a glue gun. When switching colors, you don’t need to worry about any color residue, as it goes out quickly while you use the pen.

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3. Let it warm

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Since the filaments are made of plastic, you’ll need to wait for it to melt before you can use your 3D pens. Even the best 3D pen isn’t exempt from this. After plugging in your pen, let the filament warm a bit before using. Some 3D pens have their own ways of determining when you can use the filament, so take heed of each.

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4. Press and use

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Finally, one your 3D pen is ready and warmed up, press the button and start drawing! Instructables notes that a good way to familiarize yourself with it is to start by drawing 2D objects, before graduating to full-on 3D models.

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5. Anchor your points

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Once you feel you're ready to go full-on 3D, make sure to anchor your lines with a dot of plastic before proceeding with the rest of the structure; otherwise, the whole object will not hold up. Note that the lines can only stand upright once the plastic has cooled, so you might also need to be a little patient. Getting the best 3D pen for your capability can aid in making this part a little easier.