A 3D printer needs a clean, solid model at the right size. A few checks make sure your file is ready.
Common formats
- STL: the standard for printing. It stores shape only, with no colour or units.
- 3MF: a newer format that can store units, colours and settings together.
- OBJ: stores shape and sometimes colour and texture.
Check the scale
STL files have no unit information, so a model might open at the wrong size. Confirm the real dimensions, such as 80 mm wide, and tell us the size you want.
Make sure it is solid
The model should be a closed solid ("watertight"), without holes in the surface or overlapping, flipped parts. Most design software can check and repair this.
Flat bottom and orientation
A flat face for the base prints better than a point. Tell us how the object will be used so we can orient it for strength.
Colours
A single-material print has one colour. Multi-colour models usually mean separate parts or a two-colour build, such as raised yellow letters on a black base.
What to send
- The 3D file, or a drawing and photos if you do not have one
- Dimensions and quantity
- Material and colour preference
- How it will be used
Upload your file for a quote on our custom print page.
