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 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.

A Simple Guide

Before you print, you need the right file format. Not all 3D design files are created equal and some work better than others for printing.

Most Common 3D Printable File Types

• STL – The most universal format for 3D printing. Widely supported and ideal for simple shapes.
• OBJ – Includes color and texture data. Best for artistic models or miniatures.
• 3MF – A modern format with more metadata and better slicing support.

When to Use Each File Type

If you’re designing in Fusion 360, Tinkercad, or Blender, export as STL unless your project requires materials or textures.

Need help converting a file? We’re happy to assist before printing!

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when starting a 3D printing project is choosing the right material. Whether you’re printing a prototype, a mechanical part, or a piece of art, the filament or resin you choose can affect the strength, appearance, and success of your final product.

Why Material Choice Matters in 3D Printing

Every material used in 3D printing has its own set of properties from strength and flexibility to heat resistance and surface finish. Choosing the wrong material can lead to failed prints, brittle parts, or unnecessary expense. Understanding the differences between materials helps ensure you get the best results based on your application.

Overview of Common 3D Printing Materials

• PLA (Polylactic Acid): Easy to print and biodegradable. Ideal for general-purpose prints and prototypes.
• PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): Stronger and more durable than PLA. Great for functional parts.
• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Impact-resistant and heat-tolerant. Used in engineering and manufacturing.
• TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): Flexible and rubber-like. Suitable for phone cases, seals, and wearables.

When to Choose PLA

PLA is perfect for beginners or those creating visual models. It’s affordable, available in a wide range of colours, and prints without warping. However, it’s not the best choice for parts exposed to high heat or mechanical stress.

When to Choose PETG

PETG is ideal for durable parts that need to resist stress or moisture. It offers a good balance between strength and flexibility and is commonly used in mechanical assemblies, tool handles, and enclosures. PETG also has a glossy finish and better UV resistance than PLA.

When to Choose ABS

ABS is known for its high durability and heat resistance. It’s used in automotive components, functional prototypes, and casings. However, it requires a heated print bed and enclosed chamber to prevent warping, and it emits fumes, so good ventilation is essential.

When to Choose TPU or Specialty Filaments

TPU is a flexible filament often used for protective gear, phone cases, and gaskets. Specialty filaments such as carbon fibre, wood-infused, or glow-in-the-dark PLA offer additional features but may require tuning print settings or a hardened nozzle.

Material Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Right Material

• Match material strength and durability to the intended use
• Consider the environment heat, moisture, UV exposure
• Think about flexibility or rigidity as needed
• Balance aesthetics vs. functionality
• Ask for advice if unsure experienced printers can help

How BritForge 3D Can Help

At BritForge 3D, we work with a wide range of materials to suit every project. Whether you’re printing a quick prototype or a batch of custom parts, we help you select the right filament based on your goals, budget, and design needs.

Our experts are happy to recommend the best option for your file. Simply upload your model or contact us for a free consultation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right material is critical to the success of your 3D print. With options like PLA, PETG, ABS, and TPU, there’s a perfect filament for every job and BritForge 3D is here to help you find it. Let us bring your ideas to life with the right balance of strength, detail, and value.

Ordering a 3D print online has never been easier, especially with services like BritForge 3D that let you upload your model, receive an instant quote, and choose your material all in just a few clicks. This guide walks you through the full process so you can get your custom part printed and delivered with confidence.

Step 1: Prepare Your 3D Model

The most common file formats for 3D printing are .STL and .OBJ. Make sure your file is watertight (manifold), properly scaled in millimetres, and error-free. Free tools like Microsoft 3D Builder or Meshmixer can help repair your model if needed.

Step 2: Visit the Upload Page

Go to the BritForge 3D upload page. There, you’ll see a form where you can drag and drop your file. Our system automatically checks it and displays a live quote based on volume, material, and quantity.

Step 3: Choose Material and Options

You’ll be prompted to choose your material options typically include PLA, PETG, ABS, or resin. You can also select print resolution, colour, and whether you want supports removed and parts post-processed (sanded or cleaned).

Step 4: Get Instant Pricing

Once your file is uploaded and options selected, you’ll receive a price instantly. This saves time compared to manual quote requests and gives you transparency over costs.

Step 5: Checkout and Payment

Review your order and proceed to secure checkout. Payments can be made via card, PayPal, or other supported methods. You’ll receive a confirmation email with an estimated delivery timeline.

Step 6: Sit Back While We Print

Your file is queued for printing in our UK-based workshop. We keep you updated throughout the process, and once completed, your part is shipped securely to your door.

Why Order from BritForge 3D?

• Instant online quoting
• Expert print review and guidance
• UK-based production for faster delivery
• Resin and FDM options with high accuracy

Tips for Better Prints

• Check wall thickness minimum 1.2 mm for most parts
• Avoid unnecessary overhangs to reduce support use
• Indicate critical dimensions in your message if needed

Need Help?

If you’re not sure which material to choose or need help fixing your file, contact Us and we’ll guide you through it.

Start your project today: Upload your 3D file now and get your custom part printed with care and precision by BritForge 3D.

How Schools and Colleges Can Benefit

3D printing is transforming education across the UK. From primary classrooms to university engineering labs, this technology allows students to bring their ideas to life developing critical thinking, creativity, and real-world problem-solving skills.
At BritForge 3D, we’re proud to support schools, colleges, and educators with high-quality, affordable printing services that bring learning to life.

Why 3D Printing Belongs in the Classroom

3D printing introduces students to the world of design, engineering, and technology in a hands-on, engaging way. Instead of just learning theory, students can prototype, test, and iterate just like professional engineers and designers do.

Educational Benefits of 3D Printing

• Hands-on STEM Learning: Print real-world models to support science, maths, engineering and technology education.
• Encourages Creativity: Students can design and build original projects that they can physically hold and evaluate.
• Bridges Digital and Physical: Teach CAD, design thinking, and prototyping skills with instant physical results.
• Boosts Engagement: Interactive learning that appeals to visual and kinesthetic learners.

Popular 3D Printing Projects for Schools

• Working mechanical gear systems
• Topographic maps and historical models
• Biology models: cells, bones, organs
• Custom tools or classroom organisers
• STEM club competitions and creative design challenges

Supporting the UK Curriculum

3D printing aligns well with the UK’s national curriculum, especially in Design and Technology, Science, and Computing. Students gain digital literacy and problem-solving skills that prepare them for careers in engineering, architecture, product design, and more.

Why Schools Choose BritForge 3D

• Cost-effective printing with bulk education discounts
• Print-ready help and model checking
• Support for both PLA and resin models
• Custom packaging and quick UK delivery

No Printer? No Problem!

You don’t need an expensive school 3D printer. With BritForge 3D, teachers can upload STL files and have models delivered to the school within days ideal for small or large classroom projects.

How to Get Started

If you’re an educator or school leader interested in adding 3D printing to your teaching toolkit, get in touch with us. We’ll help you choose materials, set expectations, and ensure your project fits your classroom goals and budget.

Conclusion

3D printing in education opens the door to interactive, future-ready learning. With expert support and reliable service from BritForge 3D, you can inspire students, reinforce key concepts, and make lessons more engaging one layer at a time.

Why It Matters

When it comes to 3D printing, infill plays a critical role in determining the strength, weight, cost, and print time of your object. Whether you’re printing a functional prototype or a decorative model, understanding infill can help you make smarter design and material choices. At BritForge 3D, we optimise every print to meet your needs and infill is a key part of that process.

What Is Infill?

Infill refers to the internal structure of a 3D printed object. Instead of printing a solid block, most parts are printed with an internal pattern that gives them strength while saving material. The outer shell (or perimeter) is printed solid, while the inside is partially hollow filled with a repeating pattern called infill.

Why Infill Matters

• Strength: More infill = stronger part
• Weight: Less infill = lighter part
• Print Time: Higher infill increases time and cost
• Purpose: Match infill to function (display vs. functional)

Common Infill Patterns

• Grid: Balanced strength and speed. Good for most parts.
• Gyroid: Excellent strength in all directions and efficient material use.
• Honeycomb: Lightweight with moderate strength. Popular for visual appeal.
• Lines: Fastest to print, used for basic prototypes.

Recommended Infill Percentages

How Infill Affects Cost

Higher infill means more material and longer print times which increases the cost. For example, changing from 15% to 50% infill might double the amount of filament used. At BritForge 3D, we help you choose the best balance of strength and budget for your application.

Infill Tips

• Use low infill for decorative or non-functional models
• Choose gyroid or grid for strength and reliability
• Keep in mind that more infill doesn’t always equal better results
• Use multiple perimeters instead of just increasing infill

How BritForge 3D Optimises Infill

We analyse every print job to recommend an ideal infill percentage and pattern based on use, strength, and cost. Whether you’re printing a bracket, toy, or prototype, we tailor each print to perform as needed saving you time and money.

Conclusion

Infill is more than just a setting it’s the backbone of your 3D printed part. Understanding how it works helps you make better decisions, whether you’re designing a prototype or ordering your first custom part. Let BritForge 3D help you find the perfect infill for your next project.

Print orientation is one of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of successful 3D printing. How a part is positioned on the print bed affects not only how it looks but also how strong it is in real-world use. At BritForge 3D, we evaluate each model to ensure it’s oriented for the best balance of strength, accuracy, and surface finish.

What Is Print Orientation?

Print orientation refers to how your 3D model is positioned during the printing process. This determines how layers are built up, how supports are generated, and how forces act on the finished part.

Why Print Orientation Matters

• Part Strength: FDM prints are weakest between layers. Orient your part to resist stress across layers.
• Surface Finish: Vertical surfaces print smoother than horizontal overhangs.
• Print Time & Supports: Orientation affects how much support material is required and how long a print takes.
• Accuracy: Flat surfaces on the print bed come out cleaner and more dimensionally accurate.

Layer Adhesion and Strength

In FDM 3D printing, parts are built layer by layer. The bond between layers isn’t as strong as the material itself, which means parts can be prone to delamination under stress especially if printed in the wrong orientation. For maximum strength, orient parts so the load is parallel to the layers.

Examples of Optimal Orientation

• Brackets: Print with the flat face on the bed and the arms upright to handle load across the layer lines.
• Hinges or Clips: Align so stress points run along, not between, layers.
• Decorative Models: Choose orientation for better detail visibility and smooth surfaces.

Support Material Considerations

Changing orientation can dramatically reduce the need for supports saving time and material. Parts printed with minimal overhangs are easier to post-process and have a better finish.

Tips for Better Print Orientation

• Minimise large overhangs (greater than 45°)
• Orient parts with the flattest side down for bed adhesion
• Consider the functional load design for it!
• Use preview features in slicing software to evaluate orientation

How BritForge 3D Helps

When you upload a file to BritForge 3D, we assess print orientation to ensure it meets your needs. Whether you’re making a working part or a display model, we tweak orientation, supports, and slicing settings to optimise every job.

Conclusion

Understanding how orientation affects 3D printed part strength can be the difference between success and failure. Our team at BritForge 3D takes the guesswork out delivering durable, high-quality prints designed for real-world performance.

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.

What Every Beginner Should Know

Have you ever wanted to turn a digital idea into a real, physical object? That’s exactly what 3D printing allows you to do — and it’s more accessible than ever. Whether you’re a designer, student, hobbyist, or engineer, understanding the basics of 3D printing can open up exciting opportunities for creativity and innovation. In this comprehensive guide from BritForge 3D, you’ll learn how 3D printing works, what materials you can use, and why it’s changing the way we make things.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, is a process where objects are created layer by layer from digital designs. Unlike traditional methods that cut, drill, or cast shapes, 3D printing adds material exactly where it’s needed. This makes it possible to produce complex geometries that would be impossible or very expensive with conventional manufacturing.

How Does 3D Printing Work?

Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:

1. Design: Create your 3D model using CAD software, or download it from sites like Printables or Thingiverse.
2. Slicing: Use slicing software (e.g., Cura or PrusaSlicer) to convert your model into layers. The software also generates instructions for the printer.
3. Printing: The printer follows these instructions, depositing material layer by layer until the part is complete.

This process can take anywhere from minutes to days, depending on the size, complexity, and printer settings.

Common Types of 3D Printing Technologies

For beginners, the two main types of 3D printing are:

• FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling): The most common and affordable option. FDM printers work by melting and extruding plastic filament through a nozzle, building parts one layer at a time. They’re great for prototyping, mechanical parts, and everyday items.
• SLA/DLP (Resin Printing): These use liquid resin cured by UV light for extremely detailed, smooth prints. SLA is ideal for jewellery, miniatures, or objects requiring fine detail, though it involves more post-processing.

Materials for 3D Printing

Choosing the right material is critical for your project’s success. The most popular beginner materials include:

• PLA: Easy to print, eco-friendly, and perfect for visual models or prototypes.
• PETG: Durable, flexible, and resistant to moisture, making it ideal for functional parts.
• ABS: Tough and heat-resistant, but more challenging to print due to warping.
• Resin: Used in SLA printing for high-detail parts with smooth surfaces.

Each material has its pros and cons depending on strength, flexibility, and appearance. Knowing these differences will help you select the best option for your project.

Benefits of 3D Printing vs. Traditional Manufacturing

3D printing offers several advantages over traditional manufacturing techniques:

• Faster prototyping reduce design cycles from weeks to days.
• Lower costs for small batches or one-off items.
• Freedom to design complex shapes and internal structures impossible with subtractive methods.
• Reduced material waste since only the needed material is used.

This flexibility makes 3D printing a powerful tool for startups, inventors, and anyone wanting to innovate on a budget.

Why Order 3D Prints Instead of Buying a Printer?

While owning a 3D printer can be rewarding, it requires time, maintenance, and knowledge to keep running smoothly. For many individuals and businesses, ordering prints from professionals like BritForge 3D saves time and ensures better quality. We use industrial-grade machines and provide a range of materials and finishes without you needing to worry about calibration, failures, or post-processing.

How to Get Started with BritForge 3D

Ready to turn your ideas into reality? Start by uploading your 3D model on our website. Our online tool gives you instant pricing, allows you to choose materials and finishes, and guides you through the process. Our experienced team will review your design, print your part with precision, and deliver it quickly — anywhere in the UK.

Conclusion

3D printing is revolutionising how we create, prototype, and manufacture. By learning the basics, you open doors to endless creative and professional possibilities. Whether you need help choosing materials, fixing your 3D model, or getting a part printed with industrial precision, BritForge 3D is here to support you every step of the way.