3D Pens

Students will:

• Be able to use a 3D pen. 
• Be able to create objects to use in projects. 
• Develop good hand-eye coordination. 

Vocabulary Words:

1. 3D Pen: A 3D pen is a pen that will create 3D objects and graphics. 

To prepare for this lesson:

• Purchase a 3D Pen. 
  • 3D pens can be purchased on Amazon. 
  • Scribbler 3D Pen
  • 2018 10 Best 3D Printing Pens
  • Monoprice 3D Pen
• When purchasing a pen make sure that the filament is easily accessible and not too expensive. Also, make sure that you have a source to purchase more filament when needed. Read the reviews as the generic or off-brand may not work as well with the pen that you purchase. 
   
• Read this article MakerSpace: 3D Pens, Reviews and Tips and Tricks.
  • There are lots of good ideas, tips and videos on how to use the pens. 
• Watch this video on How to Draw in 3D. 
   
• Decide what project the students will create the 3d objects for. 
   
• Here is a fun idea from Andy Mann to make bracelets. 

See Accommodations Page and Charts on the 21things4students.net site in the Teacher Resources. 

Directions for this activity:

1. The teacher will assign a project to the students. 
2. The teacher will demonstrate how to use a 3D pen to the students. 
3. The teacher will show the students the video on How to Draw in 3D. 
4. The students will create objects for their projects. 

5. Here are instructions for using the pen.

   • Once warmed up - feed the filament manually or automatic.

   • Print on a mat or other service such as a plate.

   • Trace over a template if you want a specific shape or object.

   • Create parts of your object and then fuse together.

   • There are two types of PLA filaments for 3D pens - low temp filament (70 ~ 100°C) and regular filament (150 ~ 190°C). 

     • The Quil 3D pen only uses regular filament.  
     • Pens such as the MonoPrice MP Select 3D printing pen can use both types of filament.

    6. Make sure the students have a plan before they start creating. 
    7. Have the students use templates that they have created if at all possible. 
    8. Have the students start small so there is less waste during the creation process.      

Note: Consider going over safety issues with the students. The extruder has to get really hot to work so students should avoid touching the end. Students should also not mess with the end when cool as one easily break the extruder.

Different options for assessing the students:

• Observations
• Check for understanding
• Create a rubric to assess the 3D object.