Introduction

3D printing is an amazing technology for creating physical objects from a digital design. However, for many of us the digital fabrication of our idea is the most difficult aspect of the process. 3D modeling programs generally have a steep learning curve and for the inexperienced, the journey required for building the necessary skills can become a time consuming endeavor. One simple solution is to 3D scan an existing object.

We'll learn how the 3D scanning process works by scanning some common objects. Almost any object can be chosen, irrespective of whether the object can be handheld or is the size of a house. We'll learn how to make a model from a 3D scan that's suitable for printing. It's the perfect solution for creating some models that we can use as learning examples in the course of this book.

We'll also be introduced to a variety of software options that will help us improve our 3D scans for printing. They will become important components in our toolbox for making repairs of surface imperfections and modifying the integrity of the model's mesh, for optimal printing.

At the close of the next few chapters, we'll continue using these models for testing purposes, when we focus more on the mechanics of 3D printing. Each of these models will introduce different challenges in the 3D printing process and in turn, give us an opportunity to explore solutions for solving difficult printing issues.