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th3drk0ne edited this page Mar 11, 2026 · 1 revision

3D Print Ordering Guide

This repository provides everything needed to order a 3D‑printed part from provided model files. It is written for first‑time 3D print buyers and assumes no prior 3D printing experience.

This guide focuses on consumer‑grade FDM printing, which is what most online services and hobby printers use.

Quick Start (First‑Time Users)

If you’ve never ordered a 3D print before, follow these steps:

  1. Download the 3D model file

    • File type will be one of:
      • .STL
      • .3MF
    • ✅ Do not edit or rescale the file

  2. Choose how to print

    • ✅ Online 3D printing service (recommended)
    • ✅ Local maker / friend with a printer
    • ⚠️ Home printer only if you know what you’re doing

  3. Upload the file

    • The service will automatically:
      • Detect model size
      • Detect orientation
      • Calculate price

  4. Select material & colour

    • Use the recommended defaults below

  5. Preview the model

    • Check scale, orientation, and features

  6. Place the order

    • Choose quantity
    • Select shipping
    • Complete payment

Your part will be printed and shipped to you.

What Is an STL / 3MF File?

A 3D model file contains the geometry needed to manufacture a physical object.

STL

  • Most common format
  • Geometry only
  • No colour or material data

3MF

  • Newer format
  • Can include:
    • Multiple colours
    • Material assignments
    • Correct units
  • ✅ Preferred if available

⚠️ Always upload the original file provided. Do not re‑export or modify unless explicitly instructed.

Recommended Print Defaults (Safe Choices)

These settings work for most brackets, adapters, and electronics enclosures:

Setting Recommended Value
Print Technology FDM / FFF
Material PLA
Layer Height 0.2 mm
Infill 20%
Perimeters 2–3 walls
Top / Bottom 4–5 layers
Supports Auto / As needed
Colour Any

✅ These are standard defaults used by most print services.

Choosing a Material

PLA (Recommended)

  • Easy to print
  • Good surface finish
  • Rigid
  • Low cost
  • ✅ Best for:
    • Brackets
    • Adapters
    • Indoor enclosures

PETG (Optional)

  • Slightly flexible
  • Better heat resistance than PLA
  • More durable
  • ✅ Use if part may get warm

ABS / Nylon

  • ❌ Not recommended for first‑time users
  • Higher cost
  • Higher failure rate

Ordering from an Online 3D Printing Service

Examples include:

  • PCBWay 3D Printing
  • JLCPCB 3D Print
  • Treatstock
  • Shapeways
  • Local print bureaus

Step 1: Upload the Model

  1. Open the printing service website
  2. Upload the .STL or .3MF file
  3. Wait for the preview to load

The service will automatically:

  • Detect dimensions
  • Detect units
  • Calculate price

Step 2: Verify Scale (Critical)

Check the reported dimensions carefully:

  • ✅ Dimensions should be in millimetres
  • ✅ Size should match expectations
  • ❌ If the part appears extremely large or tiny:
    • Do not order
    • This usually indicates a unit error

If unsure, stop before continuing.

Step 3: Select Print Options

Use these unless told otherwise:

  • Technology: FDM / FFF
  • Material: PLA
  • Layer Height: 0.2 mm
  • Infill: 20%
  • Colour: Any
  • Supports: Auto

Leave all advanced options at default.

Step 4: Preview the Model

Before ordering, confirm:

  • The model is not floating or inverted
  • Holes and cut‑outs are present
  • Thin walls are visible
  • Orientation looks reasonable

✅ If the preview does not look like a real object you could hold in your hand, stop and do not order.

Step 5: Quantity & Checkout

  1. Select quantity (1–2 is typical)
  2. Add to cart
  3. Choose shipping
  4. Complete payment

Printing usually begins automatically.

Printing Multi‑Colour Parts

If your file is a multi‑colour 3MF:

  • ✅ Use a service that supports multi‑colour FDM
  • ✅ Upload the file as‑is
  • ❌ Do not split or merge colours

If the service does not support multi‑colour printing:

  • Order as single‑colour
  • Or request a manual quote

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Uploading the wrong file
❌ Ignoring scale / units
❌ Choosing exotic materials unnecessarily
❌ Setting 100% infill “for strength”
❌ Enabling advanced options without knowing why
❌ Ordering without checking the preview

Frequently Asked Questions

How many should I order?

Start with 1. Order more only after confirming fit.

Is 20% infill strong enough?

Yes — for most brackets, adapters, and enclosures.

Do I need supports?

Only if the preview shows large overhangs. Auto‑supports are usually sufficient.

Should I rotate or orient the model myself?

No — leave the default orientation unless explicitly instructed.

Important Notes

⚠️ This guide covers 3D printing only. It does not include:

  • Design modifications
  • Post‑processing
  • Thread tapping
  • Heat‑set inserts
  • Assembly

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