I ordered a 3D printer tonight

I can't wait to build it (it's a kit). Should I do a build thread?
What should I print with it?

+1 build thread. Can you 3D print another printer?

Which one? What size parts? What media? Do tell!

Im guessing FDM I'd be interested to know which one you got, at my current lab job we got 6 or 8 of one type of 3d printer and 4 of a new one we just got, all for student use. The new ones are good the old ones broke quite a bit

I bought one for work about a year ago. "Solid Doodle"

Best return on investment I ever made and it cost all of $800. All it takes is one prototype piece of plastic to save you the cost of buying the thing.

Noticed out of the box that a lot of its parts were made by a 3D printer.

Oh man. Which one did you get?

You can't build an entire 3D printer with a 3D printer, but there are kits out there that sell you the metal and motors and a file for the printable parts. You get a buddy, or a make-space to print them. Naturally, you can also buy the parts on eBay.
I ordered a RepRap style printer. I've been following the 3D printing scene for a few years and the prices are low enough that I bit. I ordered a i3v Prusa kit. It has a 10X10X10 inch build envelop and with the hot end I chose, it'll print PLA and ABS. I can, and will, upgrade as my skill level improves.
My kit came from MakerFarm. It uses v-slot extrusions to increase speed and accuracy, and MakerFarm has stellar reviews for customer service. Sure enough, when I asked my first question I had an answer within 2 hours max.
I'll do a build thread for sure. I expect to have it in about 10 days or so depending on if they work on Saturdays or not.
The main reason I finally decided to pull the trigger is because I want to expose my kids to this technology. To me, this is a game-changer the same way the PC was to my generation. You're bringing manufacturing into your own home with this. You can also build a 3D scanner to replicate things, and free programs to allow you to actually design something, then make it real. Simply amazing.

Very cool. I've been watching the new designs that allow printing utilizing a continuous strand of resin impregnated carbon fiber.

Wow that's timely. My wife and I are watching a Wheeler Dealers episode with the brass-era car, where Edd 3D prints replacement oil lamps with LED bulbs. She was amazed by the technology.

DrBoost wrote: I can't wait to build it (it's a kit). Should I do a build thread? What should I print with it?

I could use a Cosworth BDA to put in my Challenge car.

The possibilities are endless. I've been thinking about printing bodies for slot cars, Vader and Storm Trooper helmets, cases for my i-devices, and so on. XLR99, what kind of car was that? I'd love to see that episode.

The next hover craft should be amazing.

I drool over them on occasion, but haven't pulled the trigger. I'm looking forward to the build thread.

DrBoost - the car is a Darracq (had to google it); it was the 'Veteran Car' episode.

I do think you're right that these things will become game-changers.

Maybe this will be the secret to how SkyNet is able to take over once it becomes self aware .

Id like to see a thread. I bought a DIY one a few years ago and holy crap it sucked.

Yup, would like thread plz.

Def putting one on my must have list.

In reply to DrBoost :

Old thread I know but how is the Prusa holding up?

Been watching and reading reviews, the Prusa i3 Mk3 looks impressive. Is Prusa worth the money? or would you rather consider another printer or brand instead?

I'd rather have something good right outta the box that ain't gonna jerk me off down the road.

In reply to N Sperlo :

According to my friend that is very heavy into the 3d printer scene, printing 3d printer parts is the biggest use for them.

In reply to fasted58 :

Rufedlt has some good videos of his in action on his YouTube channel "Paul's garage".

My anet a8 is pretty much the same thing for a third the buy in cost, and after initial setup, all problems have been self created. You can stop by n check it out sometime if you want. 

What I'm curious about is how we went from this thread to the quidi one? Or do I have my "doc" members confused?

Edit: aha, I do have my "doc" members mixed up. 

In reply to RevRico :

Yea, seen that, been subscribed to Paul's Garage for a while. That Mk2 should do what I need, Mk3 looks good w/ added features tho. I'd probably go turnkey. That was good to see an owner/ user review as compared to the printer gurus who get free machines. Also researching Tevo and CR-10 models, another guru recommendation. 

I'm totally amateur at this. I'd like to see the Anet work, might have to stop up. What is the printable size on the bed? 

I planned on starting casting flat pieces like plaques and stuff. Keg furnace won't get built till spring or later. 3D printing would be good winter project.