What format do I export as?

These are the three file options you can pick from; each providing various results so decide on which to choose based on the table below.

.STL

  • Positives
    • Simple and common
    • Quick to Print (Great for Prototyping)
    • Is a option that is supported by many printers
  • Negatives
    • Limited model information
      • Does not keep units, color or model geometry

.OBJ

  • Positives
    • Ideal for High resolution models/ Art pieces
  • Negatives
    • Just complex overall
    • Larger File Sizes

.STEP

  • Positives
    • Stores model geometry
      • Able to edit the models afterwards in Rhino/Sketchup much easier compared to .STL/.OBJ
    • Great option in case you want to share your model and changes have to be made
  • Negatives
    • Larger file size

PLEASE SCALE YOUR OWN MODEL BEFORE EXPORTING; ESPECIALLY IF MADE IN A PARTICULAR SCALE

If you have multiple pieces to export, please do it in groups and save with the appropriate numbers so we can print all the pieces.

For example: Initials_ModelName1,Initials_ModelName2, Initials_ModelName3.

This will allow us to arrange your models in a way we want as the arrangement in slicers is important for model strength, avoiding failures and getting a good first layer.

For a reminder about our 3D Printer Bed Sizes

Exporting 3D Models ( Can use the same method for Sketchup)