Even before you have a 3D model it is wise to know what your printer is capable of. If you printed a picture on a black and white printer, then you shouldn't expect color. Likewise you should keep in mind what your 3D printer is capable of. Specifically where the supports will go, the size of the model, and the material. 

3.) Modeling

A model can be obtained as a file from online from sites such as thingiverse.com. Or a model can be made on a software program such as Blender. Once you have the model you are ready to get it ready to be printed

If you are sending your model to another company to print your object for you, then you don't need to slice your model. Usually the company will take your file saved as an stl format. Otherwise if you are printed the model yourself, then you will need a software such as Makerware, to take your 3D model and convert it into a form that the printer can read. 

If your model will need supports you should model them in or add them somehow. The program that slices your model probably can add supports. This is probably the hardest stage because you will need to add supports but not to many. Also add a raft if you need it. 

Non-Manifold Geometry

If you are feeling lucky then you can skip this step, but it's probably a smart choice to take the extra time to check your model for errors. Most software programs that you designed your model on can check for errors. I recommend using Blender or Autodesk Meshmixer which finds non-manifolds.

Gcode

There are a few settings that need changed such as resolution, shells, infill, etc. but most of the settings stay the same. 

You can send your model to a company such as Shapeways or 3dHubs  to be printed or print it yourself. 

This the easy stage as you simply send the sliced file to the printer. Make sure you have enough material loaded. Make sure your computer won't shut down if it is connected directly to the printer. And make sure you have the time to wait. I work with many procrastinators who need something printed within a time frame. Even if it is printed in that time frame, many times they realize afterwards that they need to modify the model and reprint. Also the printer can have a problem as well, so just make sure you have the time. I would make sure you watch the start of the print as most problems occur at the very start. 

Your model is done and could probably take some sanding, panting, and machining. If you used supports or a raft then those will need to be broken off. They should snap right off. Be careful not to break the model though.

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3D Printing Ninja
3DNinjaneer@gmail.com