Design Guidelines

Learn how to prepare your 3D models for optimal printing results. Follow these guidelines to ensure the best quality and reduce costs.

File Preparation

Watertight Models

Critical

Ensure your model is watertight (no holes or gaps)

Use mesh repair tools in your CAD software to close any holes. Check for non-manifold edges and fix them before export.

Proper Orientation

Important

Orient your model for optimal printing

Consider overhangs, support requirements, and surface finish when orienting your model.

Wall Thickness

Critical

Maintain minimum wall thickness of 1mm

Thinner walls may not print properly or may be too fragile for handling.

Design Considerations

Overhangs

Important

Limit overhangs to 45 degrees or less

Steeper overhangs require support material which increases cost and post-processing time.

Bridging

Recommended

Design for bridging distances under 20mm

Longer bridges may sag or fail during printing.

Tolerances

Important

Add 0.1-0.2mm clearance for moving parts

This accounts for printer accuracy and material shrinkage.

Surface Quality

Layer Height

Recommended

Consider layer height for surface finish

Lower layer heights (0.1-0.2mm) provide smoother surfaces but longer print times.

Support Placement

Important

Minimize support material on visible surfaces

Supports leave marks that require sanding or other post-processing.

Text and Details

Critical

Ensure text is at least 1mm tall and 0.5mm deep

Smaller details may not print clearly or may be too fragile.

Pro Tips

Test Prints

Consider printing a small test piece first to verify dimensions and fit

Material Properties

Different materials have different shrinkage rates and mechanical properties

Quality Check

Always review your model in a 3D viewer before submitting

Additional Resources

Software Recommendations

  • • MeshMixer: Free mesh repair and analysis
  • • Netfabb: Professional mesh repair
  • • Meshlab: Open-source mesh processing
  • • 3D Builder: Windows built-in mesh repair

Common Issues

  • • Non-manifold edges and vertices
  • • Intersecting geometry
  • • Inverted normals
  • • Missing or corrupted faces

Need Help with Your Design?

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