Slicing the models with Skeinforge

You need a RepRap-based 3D printer and have the basic skills to operate it. If you are using Repetier-Host or another host that has Skeinforge built in, make sure you are using the latest version. Its latest update can be found at http://fabmetheus.crsndoo.com/. It has not been updated since March 15, 2012.

To use Skeinforge as a standalone program, you will need to install Python. Python can be found at https://www.python.org/download/. Install Python Version 2.7.6.

In order to create a default settings profile for Skeinforge, we will need to add a profile that is not included in the latest version. This profile will make a good starting point and also provide us with a reference point for future changes. It can be downloaded at https://github.com/romscraj/skeinforge41/zipball/master. Open the folder and navigate into the .skeinforge folder, then into the profiles folder, and finally into the extrusion folder. Copy the Durbie-Normal folder.

Locate the .skeinforge folder that is created by Skeinforge when it is initially opened. It should be in your computer's personal folder if you are using Windows or in your computer's home in Mac or Linux OS. Once it is located, add the Durbie-Normal folder into the extrusion folder nested in the profiles folder. Now, the added profile is available in the Profile Selection menu.

We will proceed as follows:

For a new user, the adjustments in Skeinforge may seem arcane. For example, instead of simply entering the size of the print nozzle, Skeinforge requires a ratio of the width to height of the extruded filament. This becomes more complicated as variables change. This is just one aspect of Skeinforge's complexity in comparison to other slicers. Yet, with this additional complexity, far more control can be mastered. Throughout the course of this book, we'll be exploring many different features offered by the Skeinforge plugins.

It won't be unusual for us to have many different profiles and a need to label and store them in Profile Selection. To make a profile, start by selecting one that's similar to your target profile. Make your alterations and select the Profile tab, as shown in the following screenshot:

Enter the name of the new profile in the window and select Add Profile. This is shown in the preceding screenshot.