Basic model-preparation requirements

1. Make the model watertight

The mesh must be a closed, solid shape with no holes, gaps or open edges — imagine it could hold water. Our workspace flags open edges when you upload. Most design apps and free tools (such as Microsoft 3D Builder or Meshmixer) have a repair function.

2. Check wall thickness

• Minimum wall: about 1.2 mm; 2 mm or more for parts that need strength.
• Small pins and posts: at least 2–3 mm diameter.
• Raised or engraved text: at least 0.6 mm deep/high and about 4 mm tall letters.

3. Think about overhangs

Each layer needs something beneath it. Slopes steeper than about 45° from vertical, and flat bridges longer than about 10 mm, need temporary supports, which leave marks once removed. Designing with chamfers instead of flat overhangs, or splitting a model into parts, gives a cleaner finish.

4. Leave tolerances for fitting parts

• Parts that slide or snap together: leave about 0.2–0.4 mm gap per side.
• Holes print slightly smaller than designed — add about 0.2 mm, or plan to drill to size.
• Threads under about M6 are better done with inserts or tapped after printing.

5. Give it a flat base

A flat surface touching the print bed improves adhesion and accuracy. Round or pointed bottoms may need supports or a small flat cut.