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3D PRINTING

Prototypes and parts, printed right

3D printing for functional prototypes, replacement parts and short production runs, with hand finishing when the look matters.

Multi-color 3D-printed logo badges in four sizes

What it is

Built up one layer at a time

3D printing builds a part directly from a digital model by laying down thin layers of material, one on top of the next. It's one of the quickest ways to go from a design to something you can hold, and it suits prototypes, replacement parts, custom one-offs and small runs where traditional manufacturing wouldn't make sense.

We use FDM printing, which builds parts from melted plastic filament. Parts are strong and economical. Fine layer lines are visible up close, and they can be sanded and finished smooth when the look matters.

Good to know

  • Parts are strongest along their layers, so we orient each print around how it will be used.
  • Interiors are usually printed partly hollow (called infill), which saves weight and cost without giving up much strength.
  • Layer lines can be sanded, primed and painted if you need a smooth finish.
  • Color comes from the filament, and parts can also be painted afterward.
  • Need something big? Larger pieces can be made in multiple prints and joined.

Materials

Choosing a plastic

Each material balances strength, heat resistance and finish differently. Not sure which you need? Describe how the part will be used and we'll recommend one.

PLA

The everyday standard for detailed models and prototypes. It starts to soften at around 50–⁠60 °C (120–⁠140 °F), so it isn't the right choice for parts that will sit in heat.

Good for: models, prototypes, décor, gifts

PETG

Tougher and less brittle than PLA, and it handles more heat (around 70–⁠90 °C, or 160–⁠195 °F). A dependable choice for parts that get handled and used.

Good for: brackets, containers, functional parts

ABS

Strong and heat resistant (around 95–⁠110 °C, or 200–⁠230 °F), which suits parts under mechanical stress. It can be smoothed for a cleaner finish.

Good for: enclosures, housings, parts near heat

Specialty materials

Beyond these three, there are filaments made for nearly any purpose: flexible, weather-resistant, heat-resistant, reinforced and more. If you aren't sure which to pick, describe how the part will be used and we'll include a material suggestion, with our reasoning, alongside your quote.

Good for: parts with unusual demands

How it works

How a print order runs

01
Send your file

Your 3D model file, or the simple part you want copied, plus the material, color and quantity you have in mind. Starting from an idea instead? That's a Design project.

02
We confirm the material

PLA, PETG, ABS or a specialty filament. If you're unsure, we'll recommend what suits the part's job.

03
Print and finish

Support material is removed and any finishing is done in-⁠house before your part is handed over.

Ready to get a part printed?

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