Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
4/Before You Get a
MakerBot
In which the reader shall prepare their home,
learn about the implications and responsibili-
ties that come with being the Operator and
Caretaker for a MakerBot and shall be intro-
duced to robots of great power and promise.
Obtaining a robot that can make anything isn't like getting a drill or even like
getting a swiss army knife. It's not about getting just another tool, it's about
getting a small factory that sits on your desk.
While you are waiting for your MakerBot to arrive (or just dreaming about the
day when you will purchase one), there are many free things that you can do
to prepare yourself and your home.
Think About What You Will Replicate
The last thing you want to do is to have your MakerBot set up, and suddenly
get “maker's block.” Imagine: your friends and family are gathered around
your machine, and the only thing you can think of replicating is a 20 millimeter
calibration cube. Don't let this happen to you! Before too long, you'll find
yourself visiting
Thingiverse
in your spare time, and clicking a thing's “I Like
It” button so you can come back to it later and replicate it. There's no better
time to develop this habit than while you are waiting for your MakerBot to
arrive.
Gifts
The MakerBot excels at manufacturing presents. What things can you
give away? Search Thingiverse for keyrings, coins, bottle openers, whis-
tles, charms, and other great giveaway items.
An army of things
What could you use multiple copies of? Chess pieces? Poker chips? Toy
soldiers?
