Basic 3D Printing Terminology Every Beginner Should Know
When you’re new to 3D printing, terms like nozzle clog, G-code, or infill can sound confusing. Don’t worry — this glossary-style blog will help you understand all the essential 3D printing terms so you can confidently start your journey.
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🧩 Core Concepts
Term
Meaning
FDM
Fused Deposition Modeling – a method where filament is melted and extruded
SLA/DLP
Resin-based printing using light to cure liquid photopolymer
STL File
A 3D model format used for slicing and printing
G-code
Machine language instructions that tell the printer what to do
Layer Height
The thickness of each printed layer (affects quality & time)
🖨️ Hardware Terms
Term
Meaning
Nozzle
The metal tip where melted filament comes out
Extruder
Pushes filament into the hotend
Hotend
Heats the filament so it can be deposited
Build Plate / Bed
Surface where the object is printed
Z-Axis
The vertical axis of print movement
🧪 Print Settings
Term
Meaning
Infill
Internal structure pattern inside the model (e.g. 20%, 100%)
Shells/Walls
Outer layers of the print – more walls = stronger print
Support
Temporary structures added to support overhangs
Brim/Raft/Skirt
Types of base layers to improve bed adhesion
Retraction
Pulls filament back to prevent stringing during travel moves
🧰 Slicer & Software Terms
Term
Meaning
Slicer
Software that converts STL files into G-code (e.g. Cura, PrusaSlicer)
Preview Mode
Lets you see the print path before sending to printer
Overhang
Angled part of model that may need support
Bridge
A horizontal gap between two points, printed in mid-air
⚠️ Error & Issue Terms
Term
Description
Warping
Edges of print lifting off the bed
Stringing
Thin filament lines between parts of the print
Under-Extrusion
Not enough filament coming out
Clogged Nozzle
Blockage in the nozzle causing failed prints
Layer Shifting
Layers get misaligned during print
🎯 Trinity Tip:
“Don’t get stuck in jargon — learn while printing. Most terms will make sense once you experience them hands-on.”
📘 Bonus: Downloadable 3D Glossary PDF
Coming soon on TrinityLayers.in — a full A–Z printable glossary for students and beginners.
