HOW 3-D PRINTING WORKS

1. An image of a 3-D object is created using computer-aided design (CAD) software. 2. The CAD file is sent to the printer. 3. The printerbuilds the object by laying down successive layers of material, such as plastic.

Museum of Design Atlanta

Material for the printer at the UPS Store comes in spools. The strand of plastic is fed into the printer and melted.