3D printed prototypes

Hold the idea in your hand before you spend on tooling. Upload a model, see the price in seconds, test the print, then change the model and print the next one.

How it works

1. Upload your model on the order page: STL, 3MF or OBJ for an instant price, or a STEP file for a personal quote.
2. Choose the material, strength and quality. The price updates as you go, before you give us an email address.
3. One of us checks the file before it prints, and emails you first if a wall is too thin or a part won’t print well.
4. Most orders are printed and posted within 5 working days, tracked by Royal Mail.

Which material for which test

• Looks and size: PLA. Crisp detail and the most colours, for checking proportions, ergonomics and how it looks on the shelf.
• Fit and function: PETG. A little give, so clips, hinges and snap fits can be tried for real.
• Heat and knocks: ABS, for housings near electronics or anything that gets warm.

Choosing a material compares them in more detail, with the strength settings.

Designing parts that fit

• Leave a gap where parts meet: about 0.2 mm on each side for a snug fit, and 0.4 mm or more for parts that slide or turn.
• Holes come out a touch small. Draw them slightly larger, or open them up with a drill.
• Walls at least 1.2 mm thick, and pins and posts at least 2 mm across.
• Strongest along the layers. If a part takes a load one way, say so in the notes and we’ll print it the right way up.

The file guide has the rest, from units to overhangs.

Iterating

Print one, test it, change the model and upload the next version. Several files in one order post together for one delivery charge, so printing two or three variations side by side costs less than ordering them one at a time. Different colours for different parts are free, which helps when you’re showing how an assembly goes together.

Your files

They’re stored privately, used only to make your order, never shared or reused, and deleted automatically: after 2 days if you don’t order, and 90 days after you do. The privacy policy has the details.

From prototype to a short run

Once it’s right, the same file can be printed in quantity, with the price per piece going down the more you order, your logo on it if you like, and a sample before the batch. strand commercial handles runs for businesses.