Master new skills with our 21-day learning paths, broken into easy 5-minute daily lessons.

Start your journey for free.

hardware Beginner 21 lessons

3D Printing & CAD

Turn ideas into physical objects. Master Fusion 360 for modeling and Slicer settings for high-quality FDM and Resin 3D printing.

3D printing is the engine of rapid prototyping. This course takes you from CAD design to physical part. You will learn parametric modeling in Fusion 360 to create functional mechanical parts. Master the Slicer software (Cura/PrusaSlicer) to optimize supports, infill, and layer height. We cover troubleshooting print failures, material science (PLA vs PETG vs ABS), and post-processing techniques. Essential for makers and hardware engineers.

100% Free & Lifetime Access
⏱️ 5-Minute Lessons (Bite-sized learning)
🚀 21-Lesson Path (Independent modules)
📱 Mobile Friendly (Learn anywhere)
Makers
Start Learning
Secure Enrollment via SSL

Complete Course Syllabus

  • 1
    FDM Technology
    How printers work: gantries, extruders, and beds.
  • 2
    Fusion 360 Basics
    Sketching, extruding, and parametric history.
  • 3
    Slicing Strategy
    Walls, infill, and supports configuration.
  • 4
    Materials
    Temperature and bed adhesion for PLA/PETG.
  • 5
    Troubleshooting
    Diagnosing layer shifts, clogs, and spaghetti.

Estimated completion time: 21 lessons • Self-paced learning • Lifetime access

Career Outlook

Estimated Salary
$70k - $100k

Career Paths

Additive Mfg Tech $70k-$100k
Product Prototyper $75k-$110k
CAD Designer $65k-$95k

What You Will Learn

Design functional mechanical parts using Fusion 360
Prepare models for printing using Slicer software
Troubleshoot common print failures (adhesion, stringing)
Select the right material (PLA, PETG) for the job
Maintain and calibrate 3D printers for quality

Skills You Will Gain

CAD Modeling 3D Printing Slicing Prototyping Design for Mfg

Who Is This For

Makers
Mechanical Engs
Product Designers

Prerequisites

None
Computer

3D Printing & CAD FAQs

Printer needed?

Highly recommended, or use a library/service.

Resin?

We focus on FDM (filament) but mention Resin.

CAD cost?

Fusion 360 has a free license for hobbyists.

Hard?

Printing is a tinkerer's hobby; requires patience.

Start Learning