Answers to the most common questions

Yes — STL is our most common file format. Upload your file in the quote request form and we will check it for printability, flag any issues, and confirm the most appropriate material.

We accept: STL (.stl), STEP (.step, .stp), OBJ (.obj), 3MF (.3mf), IGES (.iges, .igs). STL and STEP are the most commonly used. For large files, please compress before uploading (ZIP is fine) or email them directly to info@custom3dprint.co.uk.

The upload limit on the quote form is 20 MB. For larger files, you can compress to ZIP and upload, or email your file directly to info@custom3dprint.co.uk with your quote details. We will review and respond in the same way.

Our maximum build volume is approximately 256 × 256 × 256 mm. Parts larger than this cannot be printed as a single piece. If your part exceeds this size, we will discuss options — including printing in sections and bonding — when we review your request. Mention it in the Additional Notes field of the quote form.

We check every file before printing and will flag common issues such as non-manifold geometry, thin walls, or isolated shells. Minor corrections are included in our review. For significantly broken geometry, we will advise whether a repair is possible and whether it affects your quote.

For straightforward parts, yes. Send clear photos from multiple angles, rough dimensions (a photo with a ruler is very helpful), and a description of the part's function. We will assess whether we can produce a printable model and include any CAD work in the quote. Complex or organic geometry may not be feasible without an existing file.

Yes, in many cases. The more information you can provide — clear photos, measurements with calipers, or the broken part clearly laid out — the better the result will be. For simple, measurable geometry (clips, brackets, covers, spacers) this approach works well. We are honest at quote stage if the geometry is too complex without a proper 3D model.

Yes, for straightforward parts. We can produce a printable model from photos, dimensions, and descriptions for simple geometry. CAD work is assessed per request and any cost is stated in the quote. This is not a full product design service — it is practical assistance to get a basic part ready to print when no file exists.

Yes — replacement parts are one of our most common applications. Broken clips, covers, housings, rails, guides, and components that are no longer sold are regularly reproduced here. If you can measure the original (or provide photos), we can often reproduce it well enough for functional use.

Often yes. If the part can be measured and is a relatively simple geometry, FDM printing can produce a functional replacement. Accuracy depends heavily on the quality of measurements and reference material you provide. We will always confirm at quote stage whether the reproduction is likely to meet your requirements.

For many functional applications, yes. Brackets, holders, spacers, enclosures, covers, clips, and custom mounts are all well within the capability of FDM printing. For applications involving significant load, elevated heat, or safety-critical function, please discuss your requirements at quote stage and verify suitability before use. We are always honest about the limits of this technology.

Yes. There is no minimum order. One part is completely fine. We do not impose minimums because the setup and economics of 3D printing do not require them.

Yes. We regularly produce short runs of the same part. State your quantity in the quote request and we will price accordingly. Larger quantities may attract a lower unit price depending on the print time and setup involved.

We print in PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, and ASA. Each material has different characteristics in terms of heat resistance, flexibility, UV stability, and mechanical strength. Visit our Materials page for a full comparison. If you are unsure which material to choose, tell us the intended use and we will advise.

It depends on the application. As a general guide: PLA for indoor, low-stress, or decorative parts; PETG for functional parts needing toughness and moisture resistance; TPU for flexible, rubber-like parts; ABS for heat-resistant functional parts; ASA for outdoor or UV-exposed parts. Tell us the use case and we will recommend the most suitable option.

We carry a range of colours across our materials, but we do not offer colour matching against a Pantone or RAL reference. We can advise on available colours for any given material and let you know the closest option. Colour availability is confirmed at quote stage.

For straightforward parts in a standard material with a print-ready file, same-day or next-day dispatch is sometimes achievable depending on current workload. Urgent requests are assessed individually. Please mark your request as urgent and state your deadline — we will confirm feasibility before you commit.

Lead times depend on order complexity, quantity, and current workload. Simple parts in standard materials are often dispatched within 2–5 working days. Larger, complex, or multi-part orders may require longer. We state an estimated dispatch date clearly in every quote.

Yes. We deliver to all UK addresses as standard via Royal Mail or courier. Delivery cost is included in your quote.

International delivery is available on request. Mention it when submitting your quote request and we will confirm postage options, costs, and any applicable duties or restrictions.

Use our Request a Quote form. Include as much detail as possible — file, quantity, material preference, intended use, and any deadline. The more detail you provide, the faster we can quote.

For complete requests with a file and clear details, we aim to respond within one business day — often the same day. Requests requiring CAD assessment or file review may take slightly longer.

Pricing is based on: material cost, print time (which depends on size, infill, and geometry), any CAD work required, quantity, and postage. Larger parts, complex geometry, and premium materials cost more. Multiple parts of the same design may benefit from a lower unit price.