Frequently Asked Questions

Submit your 3D model files (STL, STEP, OBJ, or 3MF) through our online quote form. Tell us about your project requirements — material, quantity, timeline, and any special needs. We review your files, provide a detailed quote (usually within one business day), and start production once you approve. Charlotte-area clients can pick up locally or we ship nationwide.

We accept STL, STEP, OBJ, 3MF, F3D (Fusion 360), and IGES files. STL is the most common format for 3D printing. If you have a STEP file, that's even better — it preserves more design information that helps us optimize your print. Check our design guide for more details on file preparation.

A 3D model is required for printing, but we can help if you don't have one yet. We offer design consultation services where we can create or modify 3D models based on your sketches, drawings, or existing parts. Contact us to discuss your project.

Yes. We provide design consultation including CAD modeling, design-for-manufacturability (DFM) reviews, and file optimization for 3D printing. Whether you need a model created from scratch or an existing design tweaked for better printability, we can help.

We offer PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, Nylon, and TPU in a wide range of colors. Each material has different properties — PLA is great for prototypes, PETG for functional parts, ABS/ASA for high-temperature applications, Nylon for high-strength components, and TPU for flexible parts. Read our full materials guide for detailed comparisons.

PLA produces the best surface finish and dimensional accuracy, making it ideal for visual prototypes and presentation models. However, it's brittle and softens above 60°C. PETG is tougher, chemical-resistant, and heat-resistant up to 80°C, making it the better choice for functional parts that need to perform in real-world conditions. PETG costs slightly more but is our most recommended material for business applications.

Part strength depends on material, infill percentage, and print orientation. PETG and ABS parts with 50-100% infill can be remarkably strong — suitable for functional brackets, enclosures, and even load-bearing applications. Nylon parts offer the highest strength-to-weight ratio. We optimize print settings for each project to maximize strength where you need it most.

We primarily use FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) with professional-grade printers. FDM is the most versatile and cost-effective technology for functional parts, prototypes, and production runs. It supports the widest range of engineering materials and produces durable, reliable parts.

Pricing depends on part size, material, quantity, and complexity. Simple prototypes in PLA might start at $15-30 per part, while large functional parts in engineering materials can range from $50-200+. Volume discounts apply for batch orders. The best way to get an accurate price is to submit your files for a free quote — we respond within one business day.

Standard turnaround is 5-7 business days from quote approval to delivery. This includes design review, printing, post-processing, and quality checks. Rush orders can be completed in 2-3 business days for time-sensitive projects. Charlotte-area clients can pick up locally to save additional time.

Yes. Our rush service delivers parts in 2-3 business days. Rush orders are prioritized in our production queue and are available for most materials and part sizes. Rush pricing applies — contact us for details on your specific project.

No. We happily print single parts, whether it's a one-off prototype or a replacement component. We also handle batch orders from 10 to 1,000+ parts with volume pricing. Every project gets the same level of quality and attention regardless of quantity.

Our standard tolerance is ±0.2mm on most geometries, which is suitable for the vast majority of applications. Tighter tolerances (±0.1mm) are achievable on specific features with optimized print settings. We verify critical dimensions on every part before shipping.

Yes. While we're based in Charlotte, NC and love serving local businesses, we ship 3D printed parts anywhere in the United States. Charlotte and Lake Norman area clients also have the option of local pickup from our facility.

Your satisfaction is our priority. If parts don't meet the agreed-upon specifications, we'll reprint them at no additional cost. We encourage Charlotte-area clients to inspect parts at pickup, and we're always available to discuss any concerns before, during, and after production.

Absolutely. We offer design consultation services ranging from simple file optimization to full CAD modeling. Whether you have a napkin sketch or a complex assembly that needs DFM review, we can help turn your concept into a printable design. Visit our design guide for tips you can apply yourself.

For beginners, Tinkercad (free, browser-based) and Fusion 360 (free for personal use) are excellent starting points. For professional work, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, and Onshape are industry standards. Any software that exports STL or STEP files will work with our process.

Ensure your model is watertight (no holes in the mesh), has minimum 1.2mm wall thickness, and is exported at a reasonable resolution. Avoid overhangs greater than 45° where possible, and design with your material's capabilities in mind. Our design guide covers all the details for optimal results.