Popular 3D Printing Communities
Before asking for help in a community, search the group and check pinned posts. Popular groups get flooded with repeat questions daily, and while people love to help, answering the same thing repeatedly can get exhausting.
Recommended Communities for 3D Printing
The 3D printing world is full of passionate makers, designers, and problem-solvers eager to share their knowledge. Here are some of the most active communities:
Facebook Groups
Facebook is home to a wide variety of 3D printing groups, ranging from general discussions to brand-specific and themed communities. Each major printer brand has its own dedicated group, and there are also niche groups for specific interests like cosplay, miniatures, or functional prints. Keep in mind that these groups are run by hobbyists, not professional community managers, so be patient and respectful. Here are some great groups to consider:
- 3D Printing Functional Things – A community focused on designing and printing practical, problem-solving items rather than trending designs (looking at you, articulated dragons).
- 3D Printing for Beginners and Pros – One of the largest groups for discussing prints, troubleshooting, and sharing experiences with new equipment or filaments.
r/3Dprinting is one of the largest online forums for 3D printing discussions. You'll find print showcases, troubleshooting advice, and the latest industry trends and news.
Discord
The 3D Printers Discord server is a great place for real-time discussions. It has dedicated channels for troubleshooting, printer recommendations, and print showcases. If you prefer quick back-and-forth conversations instead of forum-style posts, give it a try.
MakerWorld
MakerWorld is a community-driven platform created by Bambu Lab where designers share their 3D models for free. The platform offers a reward system where contributors can earn filament, 3D models, or gift cards for the Bambu Lab store based on community engagement. While the platform is growing rapidly, remember to check model licenses before using prints commercially.
Printables
Printables is a modern 3D model repository created by Prusa Research. Known for its clean interface and active community, Printables offers high-quality, curated 3D models with detailed printing instructions and user reviews. The platform features a gamification system where users earn points and physical rewards (like Prusament filament) for sharing models, posting makes, and engaging with the community. What sets Printables apart is its strong focus on model quality and documentation, making it especially valuable for both beginners and experienced makers.