3D Printing II: Advanced Modeling, Design, & Printing

3rd to 10th graders with prior experience with TinkerCAD and Shapr3D build on that knowledge with advanced techniques and tools. $375

SparkGrounds
7777 131st Street, Seminole, FL 33776

Mondays · 4:15 - 5:15 PM
Classes Begin the Week of August 18!

Designed for students in grades 3 through 10 who have mastered the basics, this advanced 3D Printing Course builds on foundational skills with more complex modeling, precision design, and multi-part assembly. Over 15 exciting sessions, students will refine their CAD programming abilities, explore advanced slicing techniques, and tackle real-world design challenges that push their creativity and problem-solving skills.

From engineering functional gears and articulated models to designing snap-fit parts and intricate custom creations, students will learn how to optimize their prints for durability, efficiency, and professional-level detail. By the end of the course, they’ll have an impressive portfolio of advanced 3D-printed projects and the confidence to take on more ambitious design and fabrication tasks. Step beyond the basics and unleash the full potential of 3D printing!

This is an advanced course. Students should be comfortable with programs like TinkerCAD (and preferably more advanced programs like Shapr3D and AutoCAD), slicers, and 3D printers. All materials are provided, and students will be able to bring home their projects--as well as the knowledge needed to continue their work and experiments at home or in a different makerspace.

After enrolling, parents or guardians will be sent a liability release that includes expectations and rules. That document must be returned before the first class meeting. Partial, pro-rated refunds are always provided should a child unenroll before the end of the class.

This class is approved for the PEP and FES scholarships and can be purchased here or directly on the Step Up website.

WEEK #1: PRECISION DESIGN: CUSTOM PUZZLES: Explore the importance of precision in 3D modeling by designing interlocking puzzle pieces that must fit together perfectly when printed.

WEEK #2: GEARS & MOVEMENTS: SIMPLE MACHINES: Dive into the mechanics of gears by designing and printing functional, interlocking gear systems to explore motion and force.

WEEK #3: FUNCTIONAL PRINTS: CUSTOM TOOL HOLDERS: Apply CAD skills to design a practical storage solution—such as a custom pen holder, phone stand, or tool organizer—while learning about print strength and stability.

WEEK #4: FLEXIBLE DESIGN: LIVING HINGES: Discover how to design flexible, 3D-printed objects using thin-layered patterns that allow rigid materials to bend like fabric.

WEEK #5: BIOMIMICRY – NATURE-INSPIRED DESIGN: Study nature’s engineering, from honeycombs to seashells, and use those patterns to create a lightweight but strong 3D-printed structure.

WEEK #6: SNAP-FIT CONNECTIONS – DESIGNING WITHOUT GLUE: Learn how to create objects that connect without adhesives by designing and printing snap-fit or press-fit parts that lock together seamlessly.

WEEK #7: MODULAR ARCHITECTURE – BUILDING BLOCKS & STRUCTURES: Design and 3D print modular components that can be assembled into a larger structure, like bridges or towers, testing for weight distribution and strength.

WEEK #8: PRODUCT DESIGN CHALLENGE – CREATING A HOUSEHOLD INVENTION: Brainstorm and design a brand-new tool or gadget that solves a real-world problem, then refine and optimize the prototype.

WEEK #9: PRODUCT DESIGN CHALLENGE: PART 2: Use the first test print of the new product to make a second version--improving the design and adding new elements.

WEEK #10: TENSEGRITY STRUCTURES – DEFYING GRAVITY WITH 3D PRINTS: Experiment with the engineering concept of tensegrity by designing and printing structures that appear to float or defy gravity.

WEEK #11: TENSEGRITY STRUCTURES: PART 2: Use the first test print of the structure to make a second version--improving the design and adding new elements.

WEEK #12: ART & SCULPTURE – CREATING COMPLEX 3D FORMS: Use advanced modeling techniques to sculpt a detailed 3D artwork, such as a bust, figurine, or abstract sculpture.

WEEK #13: ART & SCULPTURE: PART 2: Use the first test print of the artwork to make a second version--improving the design and adding new elements.

WEEK #14: MULTI-PART ASSEMBLIES – DESIGNING A MOVABLE CREATION: Take on a more complex challenge by designing a 3D-printed object with multiple moving parts, such as a hinge, latch, or spinning mechanism.

WEEK #15: MULTI-PART ASSEMBLIES: PART 2 : Test the final assemblies in front of parents and guardians… before enjoying an end-of-the-class party.

Note that the schedule (and especially what is done on each day) is subject to change based on the realities of each individual class.