I heavily 3D print and only run Linux. I'm no expert on the subject, though, so I'll just say what I do without asserting it's the best (or even correct) way.
First, I use a Prusa MK4 printer. They're great. I use PrusaSlicer to convert the model files into the gcode files the printer wants. It has a linux version and is quite capable.
3D printers are standalone machines that don't require integration into your OS. At its clunkiest, you just copy the sliced models to the printer and away it goes, but there are things that make the experience more seamless (such as running an Octoprint server, and many printers, including the MK4, can provide their own web interface).
I design my own models about 90% of the time. I use FreeCAD and OpenSCAD for almost all my modelling. They can both generate the stl files your slicer will need. Both of these have a pretty steep learning curve, but once you've learned them they're great.
When I'm looking for existing models to print, I usually find what I need at one of two repositories: printables.com and thingiverse.com. General web searching is sometimes fruitful as well.
In short, don't sweat the Linux aspect of this. It matters far less in the 3D printing world than you probably expect.
First, I use a Prusa MK4 printer. They're great. I use PrusaSlicer to convert the model files into the gcode files the printer wants. It has a linux version and is quite capable.
3D printers are standalone machines that don't require integration into your OS. At its clunkiest, you just copy the sliced models to the printer and away it goes, but there are things that make the experience more seamless (such as running an Octoprint server, and many printers, including the MK4, can provide their own web interface).
I design my own models about 90% of the time. I use FreeCAD and OpenSCAD for almost all my modelling. They can both generate the stl files your slicer will need. Both of these have a pretty steep learning curve, but once you've learned them they're great.
When I'm looking for existing models to print, I usually find what I need at one of two repositories: printables.com and thingiverse.com. General web searching is sometimes fruitful as well.
In short, don't sweat the Linux aspect of this. It matters far less in the 3D printing world than you probably expect.