How to get something 3D printed
You do not need a 3D file, software or any experience. Here is exactly what to send and what happens next.
Step 1: send us what you have
Any of these is enough to start:
- A 3D file. STL, 3MF, STEP or OBJ. This is the fastest route to a quote.
- A link to a model. Anything on Thingiverse, Printables or MakerWorld. Browse our model catalogue if you want a starting point.
- Photos of a broken part. Put a ruler or a caliper in the frame and shoot every side. We model the replacement from that.
- A sketch or a description. Rough dimensions on paper are fine. So is a paragraph explaining what the thing needs to do.
Step 2: we quote it before anything prints
The quote states the material, layer height, infill and the price, usually within 24 hours. Nothing goes on a printer until you say yes. If a cheaper material or a coarser layer height would do the job, we say so rather than quietly charging for the expensive option.
Step 3: we print and check it
Parts are printed to the agreed specification and checked before they leave. Supports are removed and the part is cleaned up as standard. Sanding, painting and threaded inserts are available and quoted separately.
Step 4: we deliver it
We bring the finished part to you, across Hershey, Palmyra, Annville, Lebanon, Hummelstown, Campbelltown and Elizabethtown. The delivery is arranged with the quote, so you know when it is coming before you commit. See the service area for the towns we cover.
What people usually ask us to print
Replacement parts that are no longer sold, prototypes for a product, and jigs and fixtures for a workshop. We also print molds, so makers can cast candles, soap, planters and resin pieces rather than printing each one in plastic. There are 27 made-to-order services on the services page.
What we will not print
Firearms and firearm components, anything designed to injure, and parts where a print would be unsafe in the role you describe. If a part carries real load or heat we will tell you when printing is the wrong answer.
Questions we get asked.
Where can I get something 3D printed?
At a local print shop like ours. You send a file or a description, the shop quotes it, prints it and delivers it. We cover Hershey, Palmyra, Annville, Lebanon, Hummelstown, Campbelltown and Elizabethtown.
What do I need to get something 3D printed?
Either a 3D file or a clear idea. If you have a file, STL, 3MF, STEP and OBJ all work. If you do not, send photos with a ruler or caliper in frame, or a sketch with dimensions, and we model it for you.
Can you 3D print something without a file?
Yes. Most of our jobs start as a photo of a broken part, a sketch on paper or a description. We model it, show you the design, then print once you approve it. Design work is $45 an hour and you keep the files.
How long does it take?
Most jobs are done the same week, and small parts are often next day. A quote comes back within 24 hours. Very large pieces or long batches take longer because they hold a machine for many hours.
How big can you print?
Up to 350 by 320 by 325 mm in one piece. Anything larger is printed in sections and joined, which we will tell you about in the quote rather than after.
Can you print a part I found online?
Yes. Send us the link. Our catalogue has thousands of models from Thingiverse, Printables and MakerWorld that you can browse and hand straight to us.
Is there a minimum order?
No. No minimum quantity and no minimum charge. One small part is quoted on what it uses, the same as fifty.
Ready when you are.
Send a file, a photo or a description. A quote comes back within 24 hours.