Cura Beginner Setup Guide
Why Cura
- Free, no signup required for basic use
- Massive printer compatibility list out of the box
- Friendly interface with sensible defaults
- Huge community for tutorials, plugins and troubleshooting
- Works on Windows, Mac and Linux
Install and first run
- Download from ultimaker.com/software/ultimaker-cura
- Install with default options
- On first launch, pick your printer brand and model from the list
- Skip account creation for now (not required)
Pick a material profile
Cura ships with material profiles for the most common filament types. Pick PLA, PETG or ABS based on what you are loading. For Siddament-specific profiles, the matching JSON works with Cura via Settings > Configure Cura > Profiles.
Slice your first print
- Drag your STL onto the build plate
- Rotate and position as needed
- Pick a quality preset (Standard 0.15 mm, Draft 0.2 mm, Fine 0.1 mm)
- Click Slice
- Save to file or USB
Useful Cura settings to learn first
- Print Speed: slow down for cleaner prints
- Infill Density: 15 to 20 percent is fine for most
- Build Plate Adhesion: Brim for warping prevention
- Generate Support: enable for overhangs over 45 degrees