A Practical Guide

One of the most common questions we get at BritForge 3D is: “How long will my 3D print take?”
The answer depends on several factors, from the size and complexity of the model to the chosen material and print resolution. In this guide, we’ll break it down so you know what to expect whether you’re printing a simple keychain or a fully functional prototype.

What Affects 3D Print Time?

• Model Size: Larger models take longer due to more layers and longer tool paths.
• Print Layer Height: Thinner layers = better quality but slower prints.
• Infill Percentage: More internal material means longer print times.
• Number of Parts: Printing multiple objects increases time, especially if done all at once.
• Printer Type: FDM printers are generally slower than resin (SLA/DLP) printers for small, detailed parts.

Typical Print Times

FDM vs. Resin Print Speeds

FDM Printing: Generally slower but more economical for larger prints.
Resin Printing: Faster for small detailed items, but requires more post-processing (washing and curing).

Other Time Factors

• Pre-Print Setup: File prep, orientation, slicing and machine calibration.
• Post-Processing: Removing supports, sanding, curing (for resin).
• Queue Time: If demand is high, your print may be scheduled in a queue especially for bulk or business orders.

Speed vs. Quality

If you choose faster printing (thicker layers), you may sacrifice surface detail and finish. For display models, thinner layers look better. For functional items, speed and strength may be more important. At BritForge 3D, we help you balance quality and turnaround time to match your needs and budget.

How BritForge 3D Delivers Efficient Prints

We use high-speed, industrial-grade printers and fine-tuned slicing profiles to reduce print times without compromising quality. You’ll get a time estimate when you upload your file, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

Conclusion

3D printing times vary, but with the right setup and planning, your prints can be completed faster than you might expect. Whether you need something in 24 hours or just want to understand the process, BritForge 3D is here to deliver precision prints on time, every time.

A Practical Guide

Even the best 3D printers can run into issues from time to time. Warping, stringing, layer shifts, or under-extrusion can turn a promising print into frustration. Understanding what causes these problems — and how to fix them — is essential for anyone serious about consistent, high-quality results. In this guide, BritForge 3D explores the most common 3D printing issues and how to resolve them like a pro.

1. Warping and Curling

Warping happens when printed layers cool unevenly and pull away from the build plate. This is common with ABS and large flat prints. To reduce warping, use a heated bed, apply adhesive like glue stick or hairspray, and consider printing with a brim or raft. Enclosing the printer can also stabilise temperatures and prevent cool air drafts that trigger curling.

2. Poor Bed Adhesion

If your first layer isn’t sticking, the rest of your print is bound to fail. Check that your bed is level and clean, and that the nozzle is at the correct distance from the build surface (typically the thickness of a sheet of paper). Use bed adhesives or textured surfaces like PEI sheets for better grip. Slowing down the first layer speed can also help it stick properly.

3. Stringing or Oozing

Thin threads of filament between parts of your print are called stringing. This happens when the nozzle moves between locations without properly retracting the filament. To fix this, enable retraction in your slicer and increase retraction distance or speed. Also, check your print temperature — stringing often increases with overheating.

4. Layer Shifting

Layer shifting occurs when layers suddenly become misaligned, making your model look like it jumped mid-print. This is often caused by loose belts, stepper motor issues, or the print head crashing into a curled-up part of the print. Tighten your belts, ensure pulleys are secure, and reduce print speed slightly to improve accuracy.

5. Under-Extrusion

Under-extrusion means your printer isn’t pushing enough filament, resulting in weak prints with missing sections. Causes include a partially clogged nozzle, low flow rate, or incorrect filament diameter settings. Check your nozzle, increase flow rate slightly, and ensure your slicer matches your filament size (usually 1.75 mm).

6. Over-Extrusion

The opposite of under-extrusion, over-extrusion creates blobs, rough surfaces, or excess filament build-up. Try lowering the extrusion multiplier or flow rate in your slicer. Also ensure your filament diameter is properly calibrated — if your slicer thinks it’s smaller than it is, it’ll push too much material.

7. Visible Layer Lines and Poor Surface Finish

If your prints look rough or have inconsistent surface texture, it could be due to high layer height, vibration, or temperature fluctuations. Try reducing layer height for a finer finish, print at a lower speed, and isolate your printer from vibrations (using foam pads or a stable surface). Better cooling can also help smooth outer walls.

8. Nozzle Clogs

When nothing is coming out of your nozzle, or extrusion slows down dramatically, a clog is likely. First, try a cold pull using nylon or cleaning filament. If that doesn’t work, you may need to heat the nozzle and carefully push filament through manually or disassemble the hotend for a deep clean. Regular maintenance prevents this issue.

9. Filament Not Feeding

If the extruder motor clicks or your filament isn’t moving, check for tangles in the spool or blockage in the hotend. The drive gear may also be worn or clogged with plastic dust. Make sure your filament path is smooth, the spool rotates freely, and your extruder gears are clean and properly tensioned.

10. Print Stopping Mid-Way

Interrupted prints can result from power loss, corrupted SD cards, overheating stepper drivers, or firmware crashes. Always use high-quality SD cards and keep your firmware up to date. If possible, use printers with resume-on-power-loss features or UPS backup to avoid losing long prints. Monitor temperatures if issues persist during long jobs.

Conclusion

3D printing is a balance of hardware, software, and environment. Troubleshooting may seem daunting at first, but the more familiar you become with the symptoms and causes, the faster you’ll be able to act. At BritForge 3D, we apply this expertise to every job, ensuring our clients get perfect prints — every time. If your project requires reliability and quality, trust the experts. Upload your file today and let us take care of the rest.

What You Need to Know

If you’re new to 3D printing, you’re not alone it’s one of the most exciting and accessible manufacturing technologies of the 21st century. In this beginner-friendly guide from BritForge 3D, we’ll walk you through the basics of how it works, the materials used, common applications, and how to get started quickly without needing your own printer!

What Is 3D Printing?

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is the process of creating a physical object from a digital model by building it up layer by layer. Unlike traditional subtractive methods (cutting, drilling), 3D printing adds material only where it’s needed making it cost-effective and precise.

How Does It Work?

1. Design: Create or download a 3D model (usually in STL format).
2. Slice: The model is sliced into layers using slicing software.
3. Print: The printer lays down each layer until the object is complete.

Popular 3D Printing Methods

• FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling): Uses thermoplastic filament. Great for strong, functional parts.
• SLA/DLP (Resin Printing): Uses liquid resin cured by light. Best for ultra-fine details and smooth finishes.

What Materials Are Used?

Beginner-friendly 3D prints typically use:

• PLA: Easy to print, biodegradable, great for models and prototypes.
• PETG: Strong and durable, ideal for functional parts.
• Resin: High detail, best for miniatures or jewellery.

Common Uses of 3D Printing

• Prototyping and product development
• Custom tools, brackets, and mechanical parts
• Educational models and STEM teaching
• Hobbyist projects and tabletop miniatures

Why You Don’t Need Your Own 3D Printer

While home printers are popular, you don’t need to buy or maintain one yourself. Services like BritForge 3D let you upload a file, choose materials, and have a professional-quality part delivered to your door no technical knowledge required.

Tips for 3D Printing Beginners

• Start with simple, solid models without thin walls or complex overhangs
• Use free libraries like Thingiverse or Printables
• Check model scale (usually in mm)
• Consider the part’s purpose before choosing a material

How BritForge 3D Can Help

We work with both beginners and professionals to bring ideas to life. Whether you’re printing your first design or need guidance choosing a material, our team is here to help. Just upload your file or send us a message and we’ll take care of the rest.

Conclusion

3D printing is transforming how we design and make things. As a beginner, you’re entering a world of endless creativity and customisation. With the right guidance and support, anyone can turn a digital idea into a physical object and BritForge 3D is here to help you every step of the way.

A Practical Guide

No matter how advanced your 3D printer is, occasional print failures are inevitable. At BritForge3D, we know how frustrating it can be when a print goes wrong especially after hours of waiting. Whether you’re facing warping, stringing, layer shifts, or adhesion problems, this guide will help you identify and fix the most common issues.

1. Warping: Corners Peeling Off the Bed

Symptoms: The base corners of your print curl up and detach from the bed. Cause: Uneven cooling, poor bed adhesion, or lack of bed heat. Fix: Ensure your heated bed is at the correct temperature, clean the build surface thoroughly, and consider using a brim or raft. Materials like ABS are more prone to warping switch to PLA or use an enclosure if needed.

2. Layer Shifting

Symptoms: The layers appear offset or misaligned during the print. Cause: Loose belts, obstructed axis movement, or overheating stepper motors. Fix: Check that X and Y belts are tight and secure. Make sure your printer’s movement is smooth and unobstructed. If it continues, reduce print speed or enable stepper driver cooling.

3. Stringing (Hairy Prints)

Symptoms: Thin strands of filament appear between parts of the model. Cause: Retraction settings are incorrect or nozzle temperature is too high. Fix: Increase retraction distance and speed in your slicer. Lower the nozzle temperature slightly and enable combing or coasting features.

4. Poor First Layer Adhesion

Symptoms: The first layer doesn’t stick to the bed, leading to print failure. Cause: Bed not level, nozzle too far from bed, or greasy print surface. Fix: Relevel the bed manually or using auto bed leveling. Clean your bed with isopropyl alcohol. Add a skirt or brim in the slicer for extra grip.

5. Under-Extrusion

Symptoms: Gaps in layers, weak walls, or missing print segments. Cause: Clogged nozzle, incorrect extrusion multiplier, or inconsistent filament diameter. Fix: Clean or replace the nozzle, verify filament diameter in the slicer, and calibrate the extruder steps/mm. Use higher-quality filament to prevent inconsistencies.

6. Over-Extrusion

Symptoms: Bulging prints, excess filament, stringing. Cause: Extrusion multiplier set too high or filament not measured correctly. Fix: Lower the extrusion flow rate (usually around 95–100% is ideal). Check filament diameter using calipers and update slicer settings accordingly.

7. Zits and Blobs

Symptoms: Small imperfections or bumps on the outer surface of your prints. Cause: Inconsistent retractions, poorly timed layer changes, or extruder pressure build-up. Fix: Enable “coasting” or “wipe nozzle” options in your slicer. Adjust retraction settings and experiment with “Z-seam alignment” to move start points to less visible areas.

8. Ghosting (Ringing or Echoing)

Symptoms: Echo-like lines appear after sharp corners or features. Cause: Mechanical vibrations or too high print speed. Fix: Reduce print speed and acceleration settings. Ensure your printer is on a solid surface and that belts are tensioned correctly.

9. Brittle or Snapping Filament

Symptoms: Filament breaks before reaching the extruder or while spooling. Cause: Moisture absorption or old filament. Fix: Store filament in a dry box or sealed container with silica gel. For best results, dry it before printing — especially for hygroscopic materials like Nylon or PETG.

10. Still Stuck? Let BritForge3D Help

If you’re troubleshooting a stubborn issue and just can’t find the fix, our team at BritForge3D can help. We’ve handled thousands of prints and know how to diagnose even the trickiest failures. Feel free to contact us or upload your file — we’ll offer guidance or even handle the print professionally for you.

Conclusion

3D printing isn’t just about the machine or the model it’s about understanding the entire process. These common issues are a normal part of the learning curve. With experience (and a little help from BritForge3D, you’ll be producing reliable, high-quality prints in no time. Stay curious, keep experimenting, and don’t let a failed print stop your progress!

Which Is Right for Your Project?

When choosing a 3D printing method for your next project, the two most common technologies you’ll encounter are FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and Resin Printing. Both offer unique advantages, and selecting the right one can make all the difference in quality, cost, and turnaround time.

What Is FDM 3D Printing?

FDM printing uses melted thermoplastic filament (like PLA, PETG, or ABS), which is layered onto a build plate to form your object. It’s widely used due to its affordability and ability to create strong, functional parts.

• Best for: Prototypes, mechanical parts, enclosures
• Material choices: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU
• Pros: Cost-effective, durable, large part sizes
• Cons: Less detailed finish, visible layer lines

What Is Resin 3D Printing?

Resin printing (SLA or MSLA) cures liquid resin with UV light to create highly detailed prints. It’s ideal for small, intricate models like miniatures or dental molds.

• Best for: Miniatures, models, dental parts, jewellery
• Material choices: Standard resin, flexible resin, high-temp resin
• Pros: High detail, smooth surfaces, precision
• Cons: Brittle, messy post-processing, more expensive

FDM vs Resin: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Which One Should You Choose?

If you need a durable prototype or mechanical part, FDM is likely your best bet. But if your design demands intricate detail or surface smoothness, resin printing is the way to go.

At BritForge 3D, we offer only FDM printing so to ensure you get the right solution for your needs please feelfree to Contact us and we’ll help you choose the correct method based on your design and purpose.

Get Started Today

Upload your 3D model and get an instant quote fast, professional 3D printing from a trusted UK supplier. Click here to upload your file.

Before uploading your design for 3D printing, it’s crucial to ensure your STL file is clean, watertight, and printable. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you prepare your file for the best results.

1. Export Your Model to STL Format

Most CAD software can export to STL. Ensure you choose the right resolution — too low and your model looks blocky; too high and the file may be too large.

2. Check for Common Errors

• Non-manifold edges
• Holes or flipped normals
• Unwanted internal faces

3. Repair Your File

Use tools like Netfabb, Meshmixer, or Microsoft 3D Builder to automatically fix file errors before submitting.

4. Scale and Orient

Make sure the size matches your desired output and the orientation is optimal for your print goal.

5. Upload with Confidence

Once your file is ready, head to BritForge3D.co.uk and upload your STL to get an instant quote and professional results.

How Does It Work?

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is the most widely used 3D printing method in the world and for good reason. It’s affordable, reliable, and perfect for functional parts and prototypes.

How FDM 3D Printing Works

FDM printers melt thermoplastic filament (such as PLA or PETG) and lay it down layer by layer to form a solid object. Each layer bonds with the one below it, creating strong and dimensionally accurate parts.

Why Choose FDM?

• Cost-effective for prototypes and short runs
• Wide range of materials for different applications
• Fast turnaround and simple post-processing

Use Cases

FDM is great for enclosures, brackets, tools, fixtures, and concept models. It’s also the ideal starting point for prototyping your invention before moving to production.

At BritForge 3D, we use precision-tuned FDM printers to deliver strong, affordable results. Upload your file today to get started.

Designing for 3D printing is different from designing for injection moulding or CNC. Avoiding these common pitfalls will save you time and frustration.

1. Ignoring Wall Thickness

Thin walls can warp, break, or fail to print. We recommend a minimum of 1.2 mm for FDM and 0.8 mm for resin printing.

2. Overusing Overhangs

Angles above 45° will require support, which affects surface quality and increases post-processing.

3. Not Considering Orientation

Layer orientation affects strength. Consider the direction of stress on functional parts.

4. Forgetting Tolerances

For parts that need to fit together, leave a clearance of at least 0.2 mm for FDM printing.

5. Overcomplicating Features

Simplify your design for faster printing and fewer issues. Avoid unnecessary fine detail unless using resin.

Need design help? Contact BritForge 3D and we’ll review your model.

Save Time and Money

Whether you’re a startup, product designer, or local manufacturer, 3D printing offers huge cost and time savings. Here’s how BritForge 3D can help your small business grow.

Low-Cost Prototyping

No tooling, no moulds, no delays just rapid prototyping on-demand to test and refine your ideas.

Short-Run Production

Need 5 or 50 parts? We print what you need, when you need it no minimum order quantity.

Custom Fixtures & Tools

Save time on your production line with jigs, gauges, and tool holders designed to fit your process.

Branding & Packaging

3D printed logos, promo items, and custom packaging can elevate your brand affordably.

Get in touch and discover how we support UK businesses with fast, local printing solutions.

A Beginner’s Guide

Not every 3D model is ready for the printer. Whether you download it from Thingiverse or model it yourself, here’s what to check before printing.

1. Watertight (Manifold) Geometry

Your model must be a single, closed mesh with no gaps or loose surfaces.

2. No Non-Manifold Edges

These confusing edges can’t exist in the real world and will confuse the slicer.

3. Scaled Correctly

Make sure the dimensions make sense especially if your file was exported in inches but imported in millimetres!

4. Clean Mesh

Use tools like Netfabb or Meshmixer to clean and repair geometry.

Still unsure? Upload your file to BritForge3D.co.uk and we’ll check it for free before printing.