From Idea to Object: What to Expect When You Order a Custom 3D Print

So you've got an idea for a custom 3D printed part, but you're not sure what happens next. Maybe you've never ordered a custom print before, or maybe you've had a bad experience and want to know what should happen.

Here's the full breakdown of our process at CR3 Design Co., from first contact to finished product in your hands.

Step 1: Tell Us What You Need

What happens: You reach out with your idea, sketch, reference image, or existing design file.

What we need from you:

• A description of what you want printed
• Intended use (decorative, functional, outdoor, etc.)
• Approximate size or dimensions
• Any specific material preferences (if you know them)
• Design files if you have them (STL, OBJ, 3MF, STEP)

What we'll ask: We'll clarify details like tolerances, finish preferences, quantity, and timeline. If you're not sure about material choice, we'll recommend the best option based on your use case.

Don't have a design file yet? No problem. We can work from sketches, photos, or even just a detailed description.

Step 2: File Prep and Review

What happens: We review your design file (or create one if needed) to make sure it's printable and optimized for 3D printing.

What we're checking:

• Wall thickness – too thin and it won't print or will be fragile
• Overhangs and support requirements
• File errors (non-manifold edges, inverted normals, holes in the mesh)
• Orientation for best strength and surface finish

If we spot issues, we'll let you know and suggest fixes. Sometimes a small tweak to the design can save hours of print time or improve durability.

Need help understanding design files? Check out our guide: You Found the File. Now What?

Step 3: Material Selection and Quote

What happens: We recommend the best material for your project and provide a quote based on print time, material cost, and complexity.

Material options:

• PLA – Best for decorative items, prototypes, and indoor use
• PETG – Durable, weather-resistant, great for functional parts
• ABS – High heat resistance, ideal for automotive or mechanical parts
• Specialty filaments (silk, metallic, wood-fill, etc.) available on request

Not sure which material to choose? We covered the differences in detail here: Material Matters: PLA vs PETG vs ABS

Pricing factors:

• Print time (larger or more complex = longer print time)
• Material type and amount used
• Support structures required
• Post-processing (sanding, painting, assembly)

We'll send you a quote with a breakdown so you know exactly what you're paying for.

Step 4: Printing

What happens: Once you approve the quote, we queue up your print and get to work.

Timeline: Most prints take 1-3 days depending on size and complexity. We'll give you an estimated completion date upfront.

What we're doing:

• Slicing the model with optimized settings for quality and strength
• Monitoring the print to catch any issues early
• Running quality checks during and after printing

If something goes wrong mid-print (it happens), we'll reprint at no extra cost. You only pay for a successful print.

Step 5: Post-Processing (If Needed)

What happens: Depending on your requirements, we may clean up support marks, sand rough edges, or apply finishing touches.

Standard post-processing:

• Support removal
• Light cleanup of any stringing or blobs
• Basic quality inspection

Optional upgrades:

• Sanding for a smoother finish
• Painting or coating
• Assembly (if printing in multiple parts)
• Acetone vapor smoothing (ABS only)

Let us know upfront if you want any extras and we'll include it in the quote.

Step 6: Delivery

What happens: We package your print securely and ship it out or arrange for pickup.

Shipping: We use protective packaging to prevent damage in transit. Larger or fragile items get extra padding and reinforcement.

Pickup: Local? You can skip shipping and pick up your order directly.

What If Something's Wrong?

We inspect every print before it ships, but if something arrives damaged or doesn't meet your expectations, let us know within 7 days and we'll make it right.

Our goal is a finished product you're happy with – not just a print that technically works.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you've got a fully designed STL file or just a rough idea sketched on a napkin, we can help bring it to life.

Submit a custom print request or contact us with questions. We're here to make the process as smooth as possible.