Resource library
Guides for better printed parts
Practical, general guidance on preparing files, choosing materials and designing for FDM.
Must-read · MaterialsThe Filament Buyer's GuideEvery material we can print — heat limits, strength, outdoor use, food-contact caveats, design tips — plus a 4-question selector.Read the guide →In depth · Design · 25 min readEngineering Organic Parts: Topology Optimization & Generative Design for 3D PrintingHow topology optimization and generative design work, why organic shapes carry load so well, and what it takes to turn an optimized shape into a reliable FDM-printed part.Read the article →
- Files · 4 min readPreparing your files for 3D printingWhat to send so your quote is fast and accurate: formats, units, one part per file and the details that matter.
- Files · 5 min readSTL preparation checklistA practical checklist for exporting clean, watertight STL files from CAD and mesh tools.
- Materials · 5 min readPLA vs PETG: which should you choose?An honest comparison of the two most common FDM materials: strength, heat, finish, and when each one is the wrong choice.
- Design · 6 min readDesigning 3D printed electronics enclosuresPractical rules for enclosures: board clearances, bosses, wall thickness, lids, cutouts and assembly.
- Design · 5 min readCAD for additive manufacturing (DfAM) basicsDesign principles that make FDM parts stronger, cheaper and more reliable to print.
- Pricing · 4 min readWhat affects the price of a 3D printed prototypeThe real cost drivers behind a printed part — and how to keep costs down without compromising the part.
- Design · 4 min readDesigning parts for repeat manufacturingHow to set up a printed part so every batch matches: file versioning, approved settings, tolerances and inspection.
- Quality · 5 min readCommon FDM print failures and how design prevents themWarping, layer splitting, stringing, sagging and other common FDM problems — what causes them and what helps.
- Quality · 3 min readSurface finish on FDM parts: what to expectWhat an FDM surface looks like, how orientation and layer height affect it, and what finishing can and can't do.
- Design · 5 min readDesigning tolerances for FDM partsHow accurate FDM printing is, why it varies, and how to design clearances and fits that work.
- Scanning · 5 min readWhen 3D scanning makes sense (and when it doesn't)Scan meshes, reverse-engineered CAD, printable meshes and inspection explained — so you ask for the right deliverable.