Introducton to 3D Printing

About this course: 

Explore the exciting world of 3D printing across three engaging sessions.

• Friday 26 June
• Friday 3 July
• Friday 10 July

This hands-on course introduces you to how 3D printing works and provides an overview of different printing technologies and materials.

You’ll learn the key principles of 3D CAD modelling and model slicing, guided step by step through the full 3D printing process. Using the Museum’s Ultimaker filament printers, you’ll gain practical, hands-on experience designing and printing your own personalised PLA models to take home.

Throughout the course, you’ll:

• Understand how desktop filament 3D printers operate
• Learn the basics of 3D CAD modelling and slicing software
• Explore different materials and their uses
• Create and print customised, personalised objects

By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to operate a desktop 3D printer independently—and the satisfaction of having designed and printed your own 3D creations.

Who is this workshop for:

This course is suitable for complete beginners and those looking to broaden their existing skills and knowledge. You may already have a 3D printer, or you may have never seen one in person before, all levels of experience are welcome!

As we’ll be using different computer software for CAD and model slicing, a reasonable level of IT literacy is ideal, although not essential. If you are in doubt, please get in touch!

The course includes all materials and the use of all necessary tools and equipment.

About the Maker:

Derby‑born Adam Leighton, founder of Jam Seventy Nine (J79), is a multi‑disciplinary designer‑maker with many years of hands‑on experience. He has worked in a university environment for over 20 years, supporting learning and research across creative and technical subjects.

Specialising in 3D printing /additive manufacturing, product development, and digital manufacturing since 2016, Adam founded J79 in 2024 with a mission to educate and inspire the people of Derby about the exciting possibilities of 3D printing.

His work focuses on developing practical skills in making, design, and emerging technologies, with a strong emphasis on accessible, supportive, hands‑on learning.

Do I need to bring anything?

Please wear comfortable clothes that you don’t mind getting a bit dirty and steel toecap shoes/boots (the workshop have pairs that you may borrow). The course includes all materials and the use of all necessary tools and equipment.

Lunch is available to purchase from The River Kitchen at the Museum of Making or various eateries and shops in the city centre.

Working safely?

If you have any concerns or specific requirements regarding attending this course please feel free to get in touch with us by emailing info@derbymuseums.org

Course booking terms and conditions:

Please note that if you choose to cancel your place your ticket price will be refunded minus the TicketSource service fee. Your total refund is dependent on the number of days notice given:

• A minimum of 7 days before the event – full refund – minus TicketSource fee
• 6 – 3 days before event – 50% refund minus TicketSource fee
• 2 days before event – no refund

In the event that Derby Museums needs to cancel a workshop, your ticket will be refunded in full.

Image: Adam Leighton