Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our 3D printing services, materials, pricing, and processes. Can't find what you're looking for? Get in touch!
Getting Started
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.
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.
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.
Materials & Quality
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pricing & Orders
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.
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.
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.
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.
Delivery & Collection
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.
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.
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.
Currently we only ship within the UK. For international orders, please contact us to discuss options - we may be able to arrange special shipping.
Technical & Design
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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! We offer design consultation to optimize your parts for 3D printing. This includes wall thickness advice, support minimization, and print orientation recommendations.
Business & Legal
Yes! We work with businesses of all sizes, from individual inventors to large corporations. We offer specialized consultation for complex projects and can handle volume requirements.
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.
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.
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.
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