NOTE: 3D printing is currently only available at Newnham and Seneca@York

3D printing is an exciting technology that lets you print 3D designs into tangible objects. The Sandbox primarily supports academic bookings. Bookings related to personal projects will be considered based on availability.

Please note: 3D printing at the Sandbox is only available for current Seneca students, staff, and faculty. Alumni and community members are not eligible but may wish to explore 3D printing options at public libraries in the GTA.
 

New Changes to our 3D Printing Service Model

To 3D print at the Sandbox, you are required to complete our certification training. This training is free and covers the fundamentals of how to use our printers safely and effectively.
To enhance the learning experience for Sandbox users, we are now requesting that you slice your own designs prior to booking a printer. To support this change to our service the Sandbox will only accept .3mf files.

Tap here to learn more about accessing and using PrusaSlicer, the slicing software supported in the Sandbox.

How to access a 3D Printer at the Sandbox

 

1. Ensure you are a current Seneca student, staff, or faculty member.

2. Complete both parts of our online training module (including a short quiz).

3. Slice your 3D design file with PrusaSlicer and obtain a .3mf file as well as an estimated total print time.

4. Submit a 3D Print form
   
   (Option 1) Submit your .3mf file for review to receive feedback on your print settings and recommended booking time. This option is required for first-time prints and those exceeding 4 hours and 30 minutes.
   
   (Option 2) Book a printer for the appropriate amount of time. Your design will be reviewed in person. Remember to reference the print time that was estimated when you sliced your design.

Arriving at the Sandbox

When you arrive for your booking, be ready to set up the printer, re-slice your design, and have a sandbox staff member review it. Once the first two layers print successfully, you can leave it to finish.

Please note: If you selected option 1, your .3mf file will be available for you when you arrive at the Sandbox. If you opted for option 2, please bring in your .3mf file with you.

Additional Information

Once you have completed the certification training you are free to arrange an appointment to print at the Sandbox by submitting the form linked to below.
Standard 3D printing bookings are a maximum of 5 hours, per day. Sandbox users are expected to leave the Sandbox by the end of their booking time.

1. If your design requires more than 4 hours and 30 minutes to print, you will need to consult with Sandbox staff to see if your print qualifies for an extended booking.
    
2. Allocate about 30 minutes for retrieving and reviewing your sliced file, setup, cleanup, and an in-person safety review of the equipment.
    
3. Cancellation: Repeat no-shows will have their studio and 3D printing privileges revoked.
    
4. Failed prints - Although we will do our best to help your print succeed, we cannot guarantee a successful print. We suggest checking in on your print periodically and communicating any concerns with Sandbox staff.


5. Priority booking will be given for academic/course related projects.


6. With an aim to support the whole Seneca community our printers can, at times, be in high demand. If you are unable to book a printer at the Sandbox, you may want to consider looking for access to a 3D printer through your local public library. Updated in February 2024, here is a list of 3D printer services located around the GTA.