3D printing & CAD · Beginner

FDM printing

The common home method that builds parts from melted plastic filament

Also called Fused deposition modeling, FFF

What is FDM printing?

FDM printing, short for fused deposition modeling, is the most common type of home 3D printing. A heated nozzle melts plastic filament and draws each layer of the part, line by line, on a build plate. It is also called FFF, fused filament fabrication.

Think of it like this

Like piping thin rings of icing one on top of another until a tall cake shape stands, except the icing is melted plastic.

Where it fits in a 3D project

  1. Create
  2. Surface
  3. Rig
  4. Animate
  5. Render
  6. Export

Export: Saving and sharing the result: file formats, engines and printing.

How FDM printing works

  1. 01A spool feeds plastic filament into a heated nozzle.
  2. 02The nozzle melts it and traces one layer’s outline and infill.
  3. 03The bed lowers, or the nozzle rises, by one layer height.
  4. 04Each layer fuses to the one below as it cools, until the part is done.

FDM printing vs resin printing

PropertyFDM printingResin printing
MaterialPlastic filament on a spoolLiquid resin in a vat
DetailGood, with visible layer linesVery fine, smooth surfaces
Build sizeUsually largerUsually smaller
HandlingClean and simpleGloves, ventilation, washing and curing

For FDM vs resin printing, pick FDM for larger, tougher parts and easy handling, and resin for miniatures, jewelry and fine detail.

Where FDM printing is used

  • Prototypes, enclosures and functional parts
  • Household fixes, hooks and organizers
  • Larger props and costume pieces

Beginner tip

Start with PLA filament. It prints at low temperatures, rarely warps and needs no enclosure, so you can learn the printer before moving on to tougher materials.

Terms related to FDM printing

FDM printing FAQ

What does FDM stand for?
Fused deposition modeling. Fused means the melted plastic bonds to the layer below, and deposition means it is laid down in lines. FFF, fused filament fabrication, names the same process.
What filament is best for beginners?
PLA. It is affordable, prints easily at low temperatures and barely warps. PETG is a good next step for tougher, slightly flexible parts, and ABS or ASA suit heat-resistant parts but need more care.
Why do FDM prints have visible lines?
Each layer is a separate bead of plastic, so the edges stack into a ridged surface. Thinner layers make the lines smaller, and sanding, filler primer or smoothing can hide them.

Updated October 29, 2026 · Browse all 3D terms