Book excerpt: Since the release of the first commercially available 3D printer in 2009, a thriving consumer market has developed, with a huge variety of kits now available for the home constructor. In their short existence, these printers have developed into capable machines able to make robust and useful objects in a wide range of materials. 3D Printing for Model Engineers - A Practical Guide provides the first truly comprehensive guide to 3D printing in the context of other creative engineering-based hobbies. It covers using 3D Computer Aided Design; 3D printing materials and best practice; joining and finishing 3D printed parts; making your own metal castings from 3D printed parts and building your own 3D printer. Filled with real world examples and applications of 3D printing, this book is based on practical experience and is the essential guide to getting the most from your 3D printer. Illustrated throughout with 446 colour images.