File Requirements
Prepare your 3D files for successful printing
Supported File Formats
STL (Standard Triangle Language)
Recommended format. STL is the industry standard for 3D printing. Files must be binary or ASCII STL format, maximum 500MB.
Other Formats (Coming Soon)
We plan to support OBJ, 3MF, and STEP formats in the future. For now, please convert your files to STL before uploading.
File Specifications
Maximum 500MB
Most models are 1-50MB. If your file is larger, consider simplifying the mesh or reducing polygon count.
Millimeters (mm)
Ensure your model is scaled correctly in millimeters. A 10mm cube should measure 10mm × 10mm × 10mm.
300 × 300 × 400mm
Maximum print size. Larger objects can be split into multiple parts for assembly.
1.0mm
Walls thinner than 1mm may not print reliably or will be very fragile.
Design Guidelines
Watertight Mesh (Manifold)
Your model must be a closed, solid object with no holes, gaps, or missing faces. Think of it as a container that could hold water without leaking.
How to check: Use MeshLab, Meshmixer, or your CAD software's repair tools to verify and fix mesh issues.
Correct Face Orientation
All faces must point outward. Inverted normals (inside-out faces) will cause printing errors.
How to fix: Most 3D software has a "recalculate normals" or "flip normals" function.
Support Structures for Overhangs
Overhangs greater than 45 degrees require support structures. We add supports during printing, but they will leave marks where removed.
Best practice: Design parts to minimize overhangs, or split models to print at optimal orientations.
Detail Resolution
Minimum feature size depends on material and layer height. Very fine details smaller than 0.5mm may not reproduce reliably.
Layer heights: Standard: 0.2mm | Fine detail: 0.1mm | Draft: 0.3mm
Common File Issues
Non-Manifold Edges
Edges shared by more than two faces or holes in the mesh. Use mesh repair tools to fix.
Inverted Normals
Inside-out faces. Recalculate normals in your 3D software to fix.
Overlapping Geometry
Multiple objects occupying the same space. Merge or separate into distinct parts.
Walls Too Thin
Walls under 1mm may fail to print or be extremely fragile. Increase wall thickness.
Recommended Software
- Fusion 360 - Parametric CAD (free for hobbyists)
- Blender - Free 3D modeling and sculpting
- Tinkercad - Browser-based, beginner-friendly
- SolidWorks - Professional engineering CAD
- Meshmixer - Free mesh repair and analysis
- MeshLab - Open-source mesh processing
- Netfabb - Professional STL repair
- Microsoft 3D Builder - Simple Windows tool
Pre-Upload Checklist
Before uploading, verify your file meets these requirements:
- File is in STL format (binary or ASCII)
- File size is under 500MB
- Model is scaled correctly in millimeters
- Mesh is watertight (no holes or gaps)
- All normals point outward
- Walls are at least 1mm thick
- Model fits within 300 × 300 × 400mm print volume
Need Help with Your File?
Our team can review your file and provide feedback before printing. We'll identify any issues and suggest fixes to ensure a successful print.