Question 1

How do I get a quote for my 3D printing project?

Accepted Answer

Simply upload your STL file to our instant quote tool. Our system automatically calculates the price based on material, volume, and printing time. You'll get an accurate quote in seconds with no hidden fees.

Question 2

What file formats do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We primarily accept STL files (both ASCII and binary formats) up to 50MB. We can also work with OBJ, 3MF, and STEP files. If you have a different format, contact us and we'll see what we can do.

Question 3

Do I need to prepare my file before uploading?

Accepted Answer

Our system automatically checks your file for common issues. However, your model should be watertight (no holes or gaps) and properly scaled. If we detect issues, we'll provide guidance on fixing them.

Question 4

What materials do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We offer PLA (biodegradable, easy printing), PETG (strong, chemical resistant), ABS (engineering plastic), ASA (UV stable, outdoor use), and TPU (flexible, rubber-like). Each material has different properties suited to specific applications.

Question 5

What quality can I expect from my prints?

Accepted Answer

Our standard dimensional tolerance is ±0.2mm. Layer heights range from 0.1mm (high detail) to 0.3mm (faster printing). You'll see layer lines and potentially small support marks - these are normal characteristics of FDM 3D printing.

Question 6

Can you print in different colors?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We stock a range of colors in each material. Standard colors like black, white, grey, red, and blue are usually available. For specific color requirements, contact us to check availability.

Question 7

Are the parts food safe?

Accepted Answer

Some of our PETG materials are food-contact safe, but 3D printed parts have surface texture that can harbor bacteria. We don't recommend direct food contact without proper post-processing. Contact us for food-safe options.

Question 8

How is pricing calculated?

Accepted Answer

Pricing includes a base fee plus costs for material volume, printing time, and any finishing services. Express delivery incurs additional charges. Our instant quote tool shows the exact breakdown with no hidden fees.

Question 9

Do you offer discounts for multiple parts?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We offer quantity discounts starting at 5 identical parts. The more you order, the better the per-unit price. Multiple different parts in one order also benefit from efficiency savings.

Question 10

When do I pay?

Accepted Answer

Payment is required before we start printing. We accept all major credit and debit cards through our secure Stripe payment system. You'll receive confirmation once payment is processed.

Question 11

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Orders can be cancelled within 2 hours of placement for a full refund. Once production begins, orders cannot be cancelled. Custom design work is non-refundable once confirmed.

Question 12

How long does printing take?

Accepted Answer

Standard turnaround is 2-3 business days from order confirmation. Simple parts may be ready sooner, complex parts may take longer. We offer express service for urgent orders with next-day availability.

Question 13

How will I receive my parts?

Accepted Answer

We offer three options: free collection from our Bicester workshop, same-day/next-day delivery throughout Oxfordshire, or UK-wide shipping via Royal Mail with tracking.

Question 14

Where is your workshop located?

Accepted Answer

We're based in Bicester, Oxfordshire. The exact address and directions are provided when you arrange collection. We have convenient parking and flexible appointment times.

Question 15

Do you deliver outside the UK?

Accepted Answer

Currently we only ship within the UK. For international orders, please contact us to discuss options - we may be able to arrange special shipping.

Question 16

What's the maximum size you can print?

Accepted Answer

Our build volume is 220 × 220 × 250mm. For larger parts, we can split your design into sections with precise alignment features for assembly. Contact us for advice on large part strategies.

Question 17

What wall thickness should I use?

Accepted Answer

Minimum wall thickness is 1.2mm for structural integrity. We recommend 2mm+ for functional parts. Thinner walls may not print reliably or may be fragile.

Question 18

Do I need support material?

Accepted Answer

Our system automatically detects if supports are needed. Overhangs steeper than 55° typically require supports. We'll add these during printing and remove them carefully, though small marks may remain.

Question 19

Can you help with design optimisation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We offer design consultation to optimise your parts for 3D printing. This includes wall thickness advice, support minimisation, and print orientation recommendations.

Question 20

Do you work with businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We work with businesses of all sizes, from individual inventors to large corporations. We offer specialised consultation for complex projects and can handle volume requirements.

Question 21

What about intellectual property?

Accepted Answer

You retain all rights to your designs. We don't share or reproduce your files without permission. Files are stored securely and deleted after our retention period unless an order is placed.

Question 22

What items won't you print?

Accepted Answer

We don't print weapons, illegal items, counterfeit goods, or inappropriate content. Medical devices requiring certification and safety-critical components also require special consideration. See our full prohibited items list in our terms of service.

Question 23

Are you VAT registered?

Accepted Answer

No, we are not currently VAT registered. All prices shown are final with no additional VAT charges. Business customers can contact us for bulk pricing and invoices.

COMMON QUESTIONS