No 3D model? We'll make one for you.
You've got a sketch on paper, a photo or just the measurements in your head. We turn that into a print-ready 3D model, deliver it as STL or 3MF and, if you like, print a test piece straight away in Lucerne.
From pencil sketch to print file.
A 3D printer needs a file that describes every surface of the part precisely. Lots of people have the idea fully worked out in their head, but no CAD software. That's where we come in. A hand sketch with measurements, a few photos or the old part are enough to get started.
We model the part and prepare it for printing: closed surfaces, sensible wall thicknesses and a shape that prints without unnecessary support material. You get the file as STL or 3MF. Almost any printer software can read STL. 3MF also stores units, colours and print settings.
A test print shows you whether size and fit are right before you order a batch or a more expensive material. To be honest: technically demanding CAD designs with tight tolerances, such as machine parts, are something we talk through carefully first. Not everything you can draw makes sense as an FDM print. Our guide to 3D printing costs explains how the price adds up.
What we model for you.
From a hand sketch
A drawing on paper with the key measurements is enough. Where something's unclear, we'll ask.
From photos and references
Photos from several sides with a ruler next to the part. That makes the shape easy to recreate.
From measurements
For holders, adapters and spacers where length, width and holes are what really matter.
From the old part
Drop the broken part off with us in Lucerne. We measure it and rebuild it as a model.
STL or 3MF
You get the finished print file, so you can reprint the part whenever you need to.
Test print
A first part in PLA shows whether size and fit are right. Then we adjust the model if needed.
When modelling with us makes sense.
- A good fit if you want a part printed but don't have a 3D file.
- A good fit for holders, housings, adapters, spare parts or product samples.
- A good fit if you want to hold the shape in your hand as a test print first.
- Not without a chat first if your part needs tight tolerances, moving mechanics or proof that it can take a load. We talk through CAD designs like that carefully beforehand.
- Probably not if you need production drawings for metal parts or injection moulding. An engineering design firm is the right place for that.
What a 3D model costs.
With modelling, what counts is the time spent at the screen. A simple holder is quicker than a housing with curves and snap fits. You get a fixed quote before we start on the model.
- Simple model
- Fixed quote after the initial call
- Complex shape
- based on effort, quote up front
- Test print
- in PLA, price clear up front
- File format
- STL or 3MF
How your 3D model comes together.
- 01
Send us your reference
Sketch, photos or measurements by email. Tell us what the part is for and what it needs to fit.
- 02
Quote
We estimate the effort and give you a fixed price for the model and test print.
- 03
Model and preview
We model the part and show you an on-screen preview before anything gets printed.
- 04
Test print and file
You check the first part. If everything fits, you get the file as STL or 3MF, plus more prints if you want them.
Questions about 3D modelling.
What do I need to get a 3D model made?
A sketch with measurements, photos from several sides or the old part. It also helps to know what the part is for and what it needs to fit. If anything is missing, we'll ask before we start modelling.
Do I get the 3D file?
Yes. You get the model as STL or 3MF. Almost any printer software can read STL. 3MF also stores units, colours and print settings. With the file, you can reprint the part whenever you need to.
How accurate is a model made from photos?
As accurate as the reference. Photos show the shape, measurements provide the precision. Put a ruler next to the part when you take the photos and measure key points such as holes and outer dimensions. The test print shows us whether everything fits.
Do you also do technical CAD design?
For holders, housings, adapters and spare parts, yes. If your part needs tight tolerances, moving mechanics or has to be proven to carry loads, we talk it through carefully first. We'll tell you honestly when an engineering design firm is the better choice.
What's a test print good for?
A test print lets you check size, shape and fit in your hand. That way mistakes show up before you order a batch or a more expensive material. We usually print it in PLA because it's cheap and precise.
You might also like.
Prototypes
You've got an idea for a housing, a holder or a new product. We print your sample in Lucerne so you can check shape, size and fit in your hand. If something's off, we change the model and print the next version.
More on prototypes 3D printingSpare parts
A snapped clip, a lost knob, a cracked cover. Often the part simply isn't sold any more. We model it from the old part or from photos and measurements and print it in Lucerne in the right plastic.
More on spare parts 3D printingSmall batches and merchandise
Ten holders for the shop, keyrings for the opening or a display for a trade fair. We print small runs without expensive tooling, with your logo and in colours that match your brand.
More on small batches and merchandise OverviewAll about 3D printing
Prototypes, spare parts, mounts and small batches in PLA, PETG and TPU. Printed in Lucerne, and modelled too if you need it.
To the overviewReady? Let's get started.
Tell us in a few sentences what you have in mind. We'll get back to you personally, and the initial consultation is free.
Free initial consultation · No obligation
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