3D printers print objects in thin layers from the bottom up. To make it work we give the printer instructions for how to build the item using a slicer program, these programs take a 3D file (.obj .stl) and slice it into layers. These layers create the characteristic ridged surface of a 3D printed object and can be removed with sanding or careful use of a heat gun.

We can help you 3D print almost anything; for ideas have a look at Thingiverse for free downloadable 3D models, or to make your own 3D objects try Tinkercad, a free online design site. We also have 3D modelling software available on the Creative Space PC.

The only limits are your imagination (and the size of the machine)

The cost of 3D printing is calculated as $5 for each print. Subject to increase with material cost. Confirm with staff.

We have a Flashforge Adventurer 3 3D printer at every branch that can print in layers of 100 microns up to 500 microns - the lower the number, the better the quality. Remember that higher quality prints take more time and will cost more as a result. The maximum print size is 150mm (L) X 150mm (W) X 150mm (H)

At Campbelltown Library we have a Bambu Lab X1 Carbon the maximum print volume is 256mm (L) x 256mm (W) x 256mm (H). The Bambu can also print in layers of 100 microns up to 500 microns.

We use plant-based PLA bio filament made from renewable sources. It doesn't smell as much as other plastics and is better for the environment, as it can be industrially composted.

You will be able to choose one colour for your print. Currently available colours are: White, Black, Red, Yellow, Green, Teal, Purple, Orange, Pink. Each branch has a different range of colours. Please contact the library branch you wish to print at to confirm.

Once you have a 3D model to print, you'll need to "slice" it. Our Flashforge 3D printer uses Flashprint software and our Bambu 3D printer uses Bambu Studio software. Both can be downloaded for free, and accessed from our Public PCs.

• Load your 3D model into Flashprint or Bambu Studio and adjust its size, make sure the model is touching the base, and add supports or a raft if necessary (Supports are recommended. Please use a raft if your supports touch the build plate.)
• All that's left is to start slicing and select the quality level you want: Fast, Standard, or Fine. Faster prints have more noticeable ridges, higher quality prints will take longer.
• Save your sliced file (this should be a .gx for the Flashforge 3D printer and a .g file for the Bambu 3D printer) to a USB and bring it into the library to be printed. Staff will schedule your print job and contact you when it is ready for pick-up.

When you submit your design, we will give you an estimate of when you can expect it to be complete and will contact you once the print is ready for pick-up.

The length of time the print itself will take can be seen with the slicing software after you have sliced your project.

When your model has printed, we will let you know by phone or email. It will be available to be collected from the library. We can only keep your finished model for three weeks. After the 3-week period the print job is disposed of.

The 3D scanner needs to be plugged into the device it's being used on before starting up the program. You can use a provided device or download the software provided that it has 32GB RAM for the application to work properly. Calibrate the scanner to get the best quality image and select how many photos you want the scanner to take to get the best quality 3D model.

Please be aware that this device is only suitable for items of a certain size. Too small or big and it won't scan properly. Ask staff about subtility of an item if you're worried.

We currently have 3mm and 6mm plywood and coloured acrylic. Ask a staff member about getting a sheet for your next project. All material for the laser cutter must be ordered through the library as we won't use materials that people bring in from home. Library staff can help you with finding different materials that we can order in.

You only pay the cost of materials. Material cost varies from the type of material you are requesting. Discussions with staff will confirm the exact price.

Use the Xtool Creative Space software that is available on the Campbelltown library Creative Studio PC or download it off the internet.

We have a SD card reader adaptor as one of our accessories that you can use to upload your photos on to your own device or send them to yourself through the Creative Studio PC.

There is a tripod that the camera can stand on. The lights and green screen that are provided can be used for special affects as well as the lights have different cool and warm settings and all the fun backgrounds that can be made with a green screen.

The camera has an accessory cord that can be used to transfer the photos on to your own device or on to the MacBook which you'll be able to send to yourself from there.

The camera can be used alongside the green screen.