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The purpose of having a 3D printer is to own a versatile machine that empowers you in the making. It would be silly to limit yourself to 3D only, while ‘back in the days’ we were so happy with 2D prints. Luckily we found James Campbell and he shared with us his hack on how to transform your Ultimaker in a 2D Pen Plotter. And now we want to share it with you!
You just print the arm on your Ultimaker that holds the pen and you have the only add-on you need to start plotting!
Simply mount the pen holder on your Ultimaker print head and select the 2D model that you want to draw.
Pen holder
Download the STL file here and print it on your Ultimaker in your favorite color.
We recommend to use approximately 20% infill so it will be nice and strong.
For the Ultimaker Original you screw it onto the back right main screw on the printhead, held in place with a nut. Put it tight against the metal plate on the bottom of the print head (not the heater block).
This is a great hack because it is compatible with both the Ultimaker Original and the Ultimaker 2.
In the head quarters we have already been busy making various drawings and we are curious to see what you will come up with! On the Ultimaker 2 there is room next to the right fan to mount the arm and secure it with a nut.
Make sure the plotter arm is held in tightly and doesn't move around when pushed. You need it to be secured or else it will drag along all over your paper.
Place a pen (preferably BIC) in the holder and align it so the pen tip is about .1mm lower than the print nozzle. Don't worry about the plate scratching, the plotter arm has been modified to bend slightly to keep pressure on higher layers.
Run a bed leveling test, the pen will trace its maximum effective plotting size and the pen should have a consistent line thickness.
Cura
Load the Cura .ini file which you've already downloaded previously.
Load a jpg file (PNG with transparent backgrounds don't work well).
Set the image height to 0.05 total height.
Pro tip: Modifying the print nozzle size parameter determines the distance between pen lines.
NOTE: The .ini file will also modify the start Gcode and end Gcode used so it is advisable to make a backup profile if you have customized your print profile.
NOTE: You can flip the build plate around if you want to be extra precautious with the pen and your buildplate.
NOTE: When importing jpgs it's good to set the image size during import, modifying it after can cause errors in the printing.
Pen plotting
Load a jpg file into Cura.
During import, copy the values as shown in the image below:
Make sure the image size is smaller than the build volume during the importing.
3. Place a sheet of paper on the build plate and secure it painters/kapton tape on the corner and edges between the bed screws.
4. Save the Gcode to your SD or run it directly as you would for any other print.
Enjoy plotting and make sure to share your results with us!
In the final of our three-part series on 3D printing materials, we take a look at types of printing filament, additives and blends that give materials mechanical properties, as well as provide a brief overview as to filament production.
Ultimaker Cura 4.5 is officially live. The latest version of Ultimaker’s open-source slicing software offers useful new features, and coincides with the launch of the improved Ultimaker Marketplace.
In part two of our three-part series on 3D printing materials, we take a look at material types, categories, and use cases – as well as a brief overview of composite and bio-based, biodegradable, and recycled materials.
Check out the recap of our latest webinar, to learn how well-known manufacturers such as Ford are using 3D printing – and how your business can gain a competitive advantage by doing the same.
Thanks to a new intuitive web interface for the Ultimaker Marketplace, users can now simply browse, search, and subscribe. There's no need to open Ultimaker Cura beforehand – downloaded plugins and print profiles will automatically be associated with your Ultimaker account upon logging in.
In the recap of our first webinar, "The 3D printing mindset: How to choose the right composite material", we're offering an overview of what was covered, what was asked, and what's to come.
In part one of our three-part series on 3D printing materials, dive into FFF 3D printing, get an overview of Ultimaker's material range, and learn about the importance of an open-filament system.
The release of the Ultimaker S5 Material Station opens the door for a wide range of use cases. But how best to configure the materials contained within it?
From innovative new products to inspiring success stories, 2019 has been an eventful and exciting year for 3D printing. Here's a look back at a few of the highlights.
Partners of the Ultimaker Material Alliance are doing their part at furthering the 3D printing industry, from UL Blue Card-certification to ESD-safe material to metal-polymer composites.
From rapid prototypes to end-use parts, 3D printing is a perfect addition to an engineer's workflow, in which wasted time is wasted money.
Bringing 3D printing into your business is cost-efficient, convenient, and transformative. But it's important to understand and calculate your return on investment from the technology.
Where is the biggest 3D printing growth potential in 2019? This blog reveals the results and methodology behind Ultimaker's first global 3D Printing Sentiment Index.
Intent profiles in Ultimaker Cura simplify 3D printing. Just load your CAD data, choose a profile that matches your print’s intent, and hit print.
A partnership between Ultimaker and LEHVOSS Group is the beginning of a new level of 3D printing, lowering the barrier for industrial adoption.
Intent profiles in Ultimaker Cura simplify 3D printing preparation, give you results that match your intent, and maximize your print success rate, so you can show the true value of 3D printing in your business.
The impact of the Ultimaker Material Alliance was evident at K 2019, the world’s premier trade fair for plastics and rubber.
Concerned about air quality and 3D printer particle emissions? Check out this blog to learn the 6 factors that affect your indoor air quality when 3D printing.
It's a common question. Which composite material is right for your 3D printing application? Carbon fiber or fiberglass? Check out this in-depth blog!
The Ultimaker Marketplace, our digital distribution platform, has just hit a major milestone of 1 million downloads for plugins and print profiles combined. Ultimaker now has the largest compatible material choice in the entire 3D printing market.
Big crowds, big announcements, and more – get the full photographic rundown of 2019's TCT Show.
Composite-ready, dual extrusion, auto bed leveling, touchscreen. Learn how Ultimaker S3 delivers robust desktop 3D printing so you can start innovating faster.
24/7 automated material handling, air filtration, filament humidity control. Find out how our unique 3D printing solution unlocks more demanding applications.
We've released a new upgrade of our print preparation software. Join millions of users worldwide and benefit from an advanced slicing engine that offers integration with the Ultimaker Marketplace, and a cloud-connected workflow for ultimate flexibility. Don’t miss out! Update today.
Composite materials powerhouse Owens Corning explains why and how 3D printing can transform workflows
From more 3D file formats to an easy selector for Z seam positions, here are six great features of Ultimaker Cura 4.3 beta
Designing and creating a vehicle is hard work – but 3D printing can lighten the load
Explore the the 5 principles of lean manufacturing and how leading brands have implemented them thanks to Ultimaker 3D printers.
With Ultimaker Cloud's latest feature, Teams, you can connect and collaborate with colleagues and control multiple groups of Ultimaker 3D printers.
How is additive manufacturing changing the creation of molds and casts? From silicone molds to investment casting metal, check out this blog for inspiration.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
Today, the latest version of our powerful, easy-to-use 3D print preparation software is available for download. In this release, we’ve focused on usability improvements that simplify 3D printing workflows, whatever your 3D printing application.
The rise of 3D printing means the technology is more accessible than ever, paving the way for creation, iteration, and innovation
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
If you use Ultimaker Cura, but don't send your print to an Ultimaker 3D printer, then you’re missing out on a ton of functionality...
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
Enjoy all the benefits of Ultimaker Cloud by updating your Ultimaker 3D printers to firmware 5.2. Cloud connectivity and new performance optimizations give you the most powerful 3D printing experience available.
Download Ultimaker Cura 4.0 today and enjoy a brand-new user interface designed to simplify 3D print preparation – whether you’re a beginner or an expert. This release adds integration with Ultimaker Cloud, offering you advanced cloud-based tools to support
Ultimaker has been awarded a prestigious iF Design Award for the user interface of our Ultimaker S5 3D printer.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
3D Printed jigs and fixtures enable businesses to work faster, save money and add flexibility.
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Earlier this year, Ultimaker revealed a new desktop 3D printer, specifically for the professional environment – the Ultimaker S5. In this latest blog looking at how customers are using it, we explore how the printer’s ease-of-use helps engineers and design
We take a look back at our highlights and developments in 3D printing in 2018, including examples from leading innovators.
we explore some of the ways they are using the Ultimaker S5 to develop better quality products and bring them to market faster
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Formnext is the leading global exhibition and conference on additive manufacturing, and an annual fixture in our exhibition calendar. Held at Frankfurt Messe, Formnext brought together experts from a wide range of industry sectors, such as automotive, aer
By meeting FDA regulatory guidelines, the Ultimaker S5 is the first FFF 3D printer to receive FDA 510(k) clearance.
Contributing profiles to the Marketplace is an extremely effective way to broadcast materials to Ultimaker Cura’s user base, which includes hundreds of engineers, designers, architects, and other 3D printing professionals worldwide. To date, over sixty di
Learn how industry benchmarks show customer satisfaction, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement are embedded in Ultimaker’s DNA.
Ultimaker launches optimized printing profiles for world-leading materials in the latest version of Ultimaker Cura. Plus, our wear-resistant print core CC Red 0.6, ideal for printing with composite materials, is now on sale.
Couldn't your business benefit from a simpler supply chain? 3D printing offers a standalone production process for end-use and spare parts. Learn more here.
We talk to one of our most prolific community contributors, Anders Olsson, and how his work led to the development of a new wear-resistant print core.
Ultimaker participated in the second edition of the Construct3D academic 3D Printing and Digital Fabrication conference joining over 250 educators, students, and thought leaders.
Failure is good for innovation. That's the culture adopted by many businesses today – fail fast, learn fast, iterate. How does 3D printing help teach young people these agile skills?
The Ultimaker North America team collaborated with local partners and professional CAD peers to introduce the latest updates to Ultimaker hardware, software, materials, and best practices at the leading conference for computer graphics professionals, desi
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We spoke to product designer Jorge Valle about how 3D printing helps him turn his ideas for new products into reality in next to no time, and how it fits into his 3D design workflow.
Integrating a desktop 3D printer into your workflow can yield impressive results, from creating concepts and prototypes for products to small batches of tooling, or even medical models for surgeons. Here’s a look at five of the ways 3D printing can improv
From helping you present concepts to clients faster to allowing for more iterations during the process, 3D printing in architecture makes a lot of sense. Here are six reasons why you should consider one.
Today, May 29th, 2018, marks the 10 year anniversary of the RepRap project. 3D printing has undergone an immense journey – inspiring minds, encouraging collaboration, and influencing the way we think about production.
Ultimaker is forming collaborative alliances with global material companies to meet the growing demand for industrial-grade engineering materials compatible with Ultimaker 3D printers.
While aid initiatives involving 3D printed functional prosthetics in Sierra Leone already exist, they are not time and cost-efficient. Surgical resident Lars Brouwers believed that there must be a better way to get aid to those affected.
Jabil, one of the largest manufacturing service providers in the world, is overcoming production challenges with cost-efficient Ultimaker 3D printers.
Most slicing software will assign a constant spacing between each layer–known as the layer height. Very fine layer height will result in a high-resolution model, but each extra layer will add time to the printing process. A thicker layer height will print
Get the latest features and a better Cura Connect experience by upgrading your Ultimaker 3 to Firmware 4.3. The latest firmware release takes your hardware further with a new accessibility feature. Learn more here.
Electronics and engineering giant Bosch is investing in Ultimaker 3D printers for its global facilities to drive innovation while cutting manufacturing and design costs.
Storing your PVA in optimal conditions is key to a high-quality 3D print. If stored improperly, PVA can absorb ambient moisture and cause failed prints. Follow our storage and care tips.
One of the benefits of Ultimaker Cura is the ability for users to extend the core functionality of the software to streamline the 3D printing workflow. Users can experiment and deploy modifications to Ultimaker Cura to integrate different software, read c
With the launch of Ultimaker’s Breakaway support material, there are now even more options for supporting your 3D prints. But which one is right for your design? Let’s take a look at the different options and when to use each one.
Ultimaker Firmware 4.1 release adds new functionality, features, and printing performance to your Ultimaker 3 and Cura Connect. Discover what's new in this blog post.
At the Siemens PLM event, Ultimaker exhibited innovations that aim to enhance manufacturing. We showcased several successful business cases, including custom-made jigs and fixtures developed by Volkswagen Autoeuropa.
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To demonstrate the potential financial impact of the newfound efficiencies brought on by 3D printing, Ultimaker sought out to answer: what exactly is an automotive minute worth?
We are excited to announce an agreement for major funding from NPM Capital. With this new funding, we are able to accelerate product development and further grow the company.
At Ultimaker, we believe in the value of openness, collaboration, and accessibility. That is why today, we are making the hardware designs for the Ultimaker 3 and Ultimaker 3 Extended available.
With a fresh new interface, Ultimaker Cura 3.0 offers the easiest and most accessible 3D print preparation experience for users, whether they are novices or professionals.
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In this article, Jessica Lamarre, a librarian and makerspace coordinator, reflects on her experiences about how a 3D printer in a local community can be a powerful educational tool.
In collaboration with the Delft University of Technology, one of our engineers has developed a technique to achieve grayscale printing using an Ultimaker 3. This enables users to print an object with varying tones using two colors.
In over two years of our 3D printing program at the Marin City Library, we've had great success. Our intention was to bring new technologies to a community that lacks access to resources that others take for granted.
If there’s one topic guaranteed to excite students, it’s dinosaurs. In tandem with Ultimaker, Naturalis Biodiversity Center has created an exhilarating, interactive lesson plan, showing you how to build a T. rex skeleton in the classroom.
To get the best from your 3D printer, you need to be armed with the right tools for the job. From removing support material to improving build plate adhesion, here’s a list of must-have tools, all designed to make your life easier.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
What is firmware? What does it do? In this article, we'll clear things up and explain how firmware operates inside your Ultimaker printer and how to update it. Let's get started.
Printing with two colors not only looks visually impressive but makes it easier to highlight aspects of your 3D printed model. Here’s a handy guide, explaining how to create a dual color print.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
The Ultimaker brand is deeply rooted in our open source community. By sharing knowledge we will all ultimately have better products. The source files of the Ultimaker 2+ and Ultimaker 2 Extended+ are now available on GitHub.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
Our Inside Ultimaker series is designed to provide a deeper look at our talent here at Ultimaker across a variety of different roles, teams, and experience levels. Today, the spotlight is on Jasper Van Damme.
Ultimaker has a great team of people – who work together to make our company what it is: exciting, dynamic and forward-thinking. Our Inside Ultimaker series provides insight into our talented crew – across a range of different roles and skill-sets.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
Our Inside Ultimaker series offers the chance to hear from our team members and find out what it’s like to work with us. If you phone Ultimaker HQ, you’re likely to be greeted by a friendly voice. That’s Jacqueline Vulto, our amazing receptionist.
Our series, Inside Ultimaker, is designed to give you some insight into the people who work with us. Meet Lenneke de Penning, our assembly team leader, who leads our group of talented assembly operators; and ensures that our production line runs smoothly
Every company needs a great team behind it – which is why we feel very fortunate to have so many talented, passionate people working with us. Our Inside Ultimaker series gives you the chance to meet our team and discover what it’s like to work here.
We're proud to announce that the Ultimaker 2 Go and Ultimaker 2+ won the first and second prize in the competition, proving that they're up to printing complex models originally designed for SLA printers.
We owe a lot to our trusty Ultimaker Original. It’s where our journey into 3D printing began and we’ll continue to support it well into the future, just as we know our wonderful community will.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
When we introduced the Ultimaker 2+ printers we asked popular modeler Jacky Wan, also known in the community as Valcrow, to create a model that would show off the new features of the Ultimaker 2+ line. He immediately came up with this beautiful model.
Do you love Fallout 4? In this detailed walkthrough, you will find out how to make your own Fallout 4 Mini Nuke. It covers everything from designing the 3D models to post processing.
When preparing a print, choosing the right 3D printing profile makes a really big difference. To help give you the lowdown on 3D printing best practices we’ve combined the knowledge of our experts with our online knowledge base.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
If it’s happening in Ultimaker’s world, you can find out about it here. 3D printing stories about inspiring moments, original 3D printed projects and much much more.
Painting 3D-printed models is a great way of adding detail and production value to your models, often making the difference between a ‘cool print’ and a real piece of art.
For May the 4th, I designed a 3D printed lightsaber in commemoration of Star Wars day in collaboration with Ultimaker. In this guest blog I will explore some of the design nuances and share some tips.
