Most files we receive go straight into production. The rest run into one of five issues, each fixable in minutes if you know what to check.
1. Millimetres, not centimetres or inches
STL stores numbers, not units. The software opening it chooses the unit; ours assumes millimetres, the standard for 3D printing.
This causes a common surprise: a model designed in centimetres comes out ten times smaller than expected, and inch-based files cause scaling problems too. If your uploaded object looks tiny or will not fit the printer, check units first.
Verify dimensions before exporting. We show the bounding dimensions immediately after upload: compare them with what you expect.
2. Does it fit?
The build volume is 256 × 256 × 260 mm. We automatically check whether the model fits, including rotated positions; some parts fit only diagonally.
A larger object is not a dead end. It can be printed in parts and assembled. Email us and we will assess sensible split positions.
3. Wall thickness
Our nozzle is 0.4 mm. A thinner wall cannot be formed as designed: the slicer either omits it or thickens it automatically.
As a practical rule, use at least 1 mm for handled objects and at least 1.6 mm for load-bearing parts. Thin ribs and lettering below 1 mm may appear smoothed out instead of raised.
4. Open edges are NOT necessarily a barrier
This is a common misunderstanding. Real STL files often have open edges from CAD or scanning. Slicing software can close them automatically and printing can proceed.
We stop automatic pricing only when the volume cannot be measured reliably, for example with reversed surfaces or self-intersections producing negative or implausible volume. We then review the file manually instead of pricing an incorrect number.
5. Which format?
We accept STL, OBJ and 3MF.
- STL is the most common and predictable. Prefer binary STL: it is several times smaller than text STL.
- 3MF is an archive containing more information in a smaller file.
- OBJ is text-based and several times larger for the same geometry. Its upload limit is therefore 200 MB, compared with 400 MB for the other two.
If you do not have a file
Many people needing a print have a broken part or an idea, but no 3D file. There are two routes: we model from your photos and dimensions, or reproduce an object you send. In both cases you receive a price first and owe nothing until you accept it.
Already have a file? Upload it for an instant price.