3D Printing
The 3D printing service at Waldo Library allows Western Michigan University students, faculty and staff to request prints of 3D objects. Student requests receive priority.
About 3D printing
Printers
Our lab has eight 3D printers. All printers are Ultimaker 3s.
Dimensions
Maximum size is 200 x 200 x 200mm. Models must be completed in two print jobs or less.
File type
Submit all 3D models as .stl files. Make sure that the exported file is in millimeters.
Colors
Filament colors available are:
- Black
- Brown
- Gold
- Green
- Grey
- Light blue
- Red
- Featured color (see current color on this page)
You can request a color when you submit your print. We’ll do our best to use it, but availability depends on demand. If your chosen color isn’t available, we’ll use another from our list unless you let us know otherwise.
Material
We currently only stock PLA filament. Models must not exceed 250 grams of material.
Time
Max print time of six hours is requested. Jobs that require more than six hours of print time will receive lower priority. Must not exceed 24 hours of print time.
Cost
All 3D printing is free at this time.
Exceptions
We may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis for academic or research projects. If your project is hindered by the listed limitations, please include your special requirements in the 3D print request.
Explore 3D printing
Swing by the Tech Lab desk to check out our filament colors, see print samples, and ask us questions.
Today's hours
Friday, July 11, 2025
3D prints can be picked up:
| Waldo Library | 7:30am – 6pm |
|---|---|
| Public Hours | 7:30am – 6pm |
| Bronco Card Required | – |
| Bookmark Café | Closed |
| Learning Glass Studio | 9am – 5pm |
| Media Studio / Respondus Testing Room | 9am – 5pm |
| Virtual Reality Lab / Flight Simulators | 9am – 5pm |
| Writing Center Satellite | Closed |
Location
Our 3D printers are in the Tech Lab on the lower level of Waldo Library in Room 0135.
Orders
Patrons may only have one pending 3D print order at a time. New orders may not enter the queue until the previous order has been completed.
If multiple orders are submitted, the first order will remain in the queue, however, the remaining orders will be canceled.
Once the print has been completed, you will be notified by email. Prints can be picked up from the Tech Lab on the lower level of Waldo Library during open hours.
3D prints not collected within two weeks become the property of the University Libraries.
Printing rules
No one will be permitted to print objects that are:
- Prohibited by local, state or federal law.
- Unsafe, harmful, dangerous or poses an immediate threat to the well-being of others—including weapons of any kind.
- Obscene, offensive or otherwise inappropriate.
- In violation of intellectual property rights.
Looking for 3D designs?
Faculty members and instructors
Due to fluctuating demand and delivery times, the 3D printing service may not be used as a requirement for your curriculum.