Can 3D printed parts be painted, dyed, or colored?
Works on all technologies. Best with primer, spray paint, brush, or airbrush. Sand the surface first (220–400 grit).…
Can I 3D print a prototype for my product idea?
3D printing is the fastest and most cost-effective way to turn your idea into a physical prototype. If you have a 3D…
Can I add notes or instructions to my order?
Yes — every order allows space for notes. Instructions are helpful for specifying orientation preferences, finishes, or…
Can I call Makelab?
Feel free to call us with general questions about placing orders, payment, our process, submitting files, or checking…
Can I change from shipping to local pickup?
You can switch your order from shipping to local pickup as long as it hasn’t already been dispatched. To request the…
Can I change or cancel my order after I have placed it?
We understand that order details may need adjustments. Whether you need to update quantities, materials, or replace an…
Can I order samples before committing to larger quantities?
Absolutely — Makelab encourages sample orders before production runs. Why order samples first: Verify material…
Can I pay on an invoicing basis?
We offer invoicing on a per-order basis for companies with internal accounting or accounts payable departments. If you…
Can I pay via wire or ACH transfer?
We do accept ACH payments and wire transfers as a payment option for business clients. Here’s what you need to know…
Can I place an order outside of business hours?
You can place an order 24/7 using our Instant Quoter. Upload your part files into the drag-and-drop box, configure your…
Can I see examples of past work?
Yes. Selected projects are on our Our Work page, and we share recent work on LinkedIn and Instagram. Most customer…
Can I visit your office?
While we don't accept walk-ins (we're busy making prototypes!), we'd love to show you around and discuss your project…
Can Makelab help with design edits?
Yes — Makelab can provide basic file edits to prepare parts for printing. Typical edits include thickening walls…
Can we schedule a consultation to discuss details?
We'd be happy to schedule a consultation to discuss your project in detail. Consultations help us gain a clear…
Can you 3D model something to match my reference photos?
We've successfully 3D modeled and printed various objects using reference images. To get started, simply provide a…
Can you 3D print architectural models?
We produce scale models for architecture, from quick massing studies to detailed presentation pieces. SLA resin…
Can you 3D print food-safe parts?
No, Makelab does not offer food-safe 3D printed parts. Some 3D printing materials are marketed as food-safe at the…
Can you 3D print from a photo or drawing without a CAD file?
If you don’t have a 3D CAD file, we can create one from photos, hand sketches, technical drawings, PDF specifications…
Can you 3D print waterproof or watertight parts?
Achieving watertight 3D prints is possible but requires specific technologies and design considerations. SLA…
Can you accommodate tight tolerances for assemblies?
Yes — but tolerance limits vary by process. Standard tolerances are FDM ±0.5mm, SLA ±0.2mm, Industrial SLA ±0.2mm, MJF…
Can you arrange a courier for my order?
For local deliveries, we arrange our own trusted courier service (Flot) rather than third-party on-demand couriers.…
Can you blind ship my order? It is going to someone else.
If you need us to ship parts directly to your clients without any Makelab branding, invoices, or paperwork, just let us…
Can you convert 2D drawings to 3D models?
Yes — Makelab offers 2D-to-3D modeling services to help bring your concepts to life. Technical drawings (engineering…
Can you create a 3D Model based off an object I send or bring to you?
If you have a physical item you'd like replicated and 3D printed, please complete our Intake Form to initiate the…
Can you edit my existing 3D CAD file?
Yes, we can edit your existing 3D CAD file, but this falls under our 3D design services and is quoted separately.…
Can you fix warping or print failures?
If warping or print failure happens during production, we handle it — you won't receive a failed or warped part. 1.…
Can you help if I don't know what material to choose?
Most customers aren’t sure which material is best, and that’s completely normal. Select “Tech’s Choice” when ordering.…
Can you help me choose the right finish for my part?
The right finish depends on how your part will be used and how you want it to look. Here are the main options, and when…
Can you help me optimize my design for lower cost?
Yes — Makelab provides DFAM (Design for Additive Manufacturing) feedback to reduce costs. This may include…
Can you hold an order for later pickup?
Yes — Makelab can hold completed orders for a limited period before pickup. We know schedules can shift, so finished…
Can you hold inventory or store parts for future shipments?
Makelab does not offer long-term inventory storage, but short-term order consolidation is possible. We focus on agile…
Can you match a specific Pantone color?
Provide the Pantone code, a physical sample, or a hex code. Custom painting gives the most accurate match on any…
Can you print carbon fiber reinforced parts?
Yes — Makelab offers carbon fiber reinforced materials for FDM printing. These composite materials combine a base…
Can you print flexible materials?
Yes — Makelab offers flexible materials suitable for certain applications. While rigid plastics like nylon and resin…
Can you print full-color 3D models?
Makelab does not currently offer full-color printing as a standard service. Our processes are optimized for…
Can you print large parts in sections and assemble them?
Yes — Makelab can split oversized parts and reassemble them after printing. This method is used when a design exceeds…
Can you print metal parts?
No, Makelab doesn't print metal parts. We 3D print in plastics, resins, and nylon using five technologies: FDM, SLA…
Can you print threaded holes or inserts?
Yes — threaded features can be integrated, but design and process must be considered. Small threads are often tapped…
Can you print transparent parts?
Yes — Makelab can produce translucent parts using SLA resin. While full optical clarity is not achievable directly off…
Can you produce assemblies with moving parts?
Yes — Makelab can produce assemblies, but moving parts usually require special design considerations. Clearances must…
Can you provide CAD design from sketches?
Yes — Makelab can create 3D CAD models from sketches or drawings. This service is used when clients have design intent…
Can you provide datasheets for materials you stock?
Yes. Every material page on our website has a downloadable Technical Data Sheet (PDF) for that material, along with a…
Can you provide ITAR or defense-related compliance?
Makelab is not ITAR-registered at this time. We cannot guarantee compliance for defense-restricted projects. However…
Can you provide MSDS or safety data sheets for materials?
Yes — Makelab can provide safety data sheets (SDS/MSDS) for the materials we use. These documents outline handling…
Can you review my file to make sure it is okay to 3D print?
Absolutely. Every file submitted to Makelab goes through a manufacturability check before we print—this is included at…
Can you ship directly to my client?
Yes — Makelab can blind-ship directly to your client. We remove branding and include neutral packaging upon request. To…
Can you ship without branded packaging?
Yes, we can accommodate blind shipping with no Makelab branding, invoices, or paperwork included in the shipment—ideal…
Can you sign an NDA?
Yes — Makelab can review and sign an NDA to support confidential projects. We regularly handle sensitive files and…
Designing for MJF powder removal
MJF parts are built in a bed of powder. After printing, trapped powder must be removed from internal cavities…
Do I need a 3D CAD file before I talk to you?
You don't need a 3D CAD file to start the conversation. If you have a sketch, photo, rough drawing, or even just an…
Do you accept Net30 terms?
We do offer Net 30 payment terms, but only for approved business accounts. Here’s how it works: Eligibility: Net 30…
Do you handle NDA or confidential project requests?
Yes—confidentiality is built into how we operate. We routinely handle proprietary prototypes and enterprise-level…
Do you help with prototyping vs. production runs?
Yes — Makelab supports both prototyping and production runs, with different approaches for each: Fast turnaround for…
Do you install heat-set inserts?
Yes. We install heat-set inserts in house, and you can add them to an order yourself in the instant quoter. Heat-set…
Do you offer 3D scanning services?
Yes — Makelab offers 3D scanning to convert physical objects into digital CAD files. This service is often used for…
Do you offer API access for automated ordering?
Currently, Makelab does not offer public API access for automated ordering. That said, if you're a high-volume or…
Do you offer assembly of multi-part projects?
Yes — Makelab can assemble printed parts as part of an order. This is common for prototypes with multiple components or…
Do you offer batch QC for multi-unit orders?
Yes — Makelab can perform QC checks on batch orders to ensure consistency across units. This process includes reviewing…
Do you offer biodegradable or eco-friendly materials?
Yes — Makelab offers PLA (Polylactic Acid), a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn…
Do you offer blanket orders or inventory management?
Yes — Makelab offers blanket purchase orders and inventory management for customers with ongoing, repeat part needs.…
Do you offer CNC machining services?
Currently, Makelab specializes in additive manufacturing (3D printing) using FDM, SLA, Industrial SLA, MJF, and FGF…
Do you offer custom packaging?
Yes — custom packaging is available for clients who need special handling. This includes branded packaging, protective…
Do you offer Design for Manufacturability (DFM) reviews?
Yes — every order at Makelab includes a complimentary Design for Manufacturability (DFM) review by our engineering…
Do you offer dimensional inspection or measurement reports?
Yes — Makelab can provide dimensional checks and reports for projects that require documentation. Standard orders…
Do you offer discounts?
We offer discounts to support your design and prototyping needs: Startup discounts for early-stage companies. Student…
Do you offer expedited shipping?
Yes — expedited shipping options are available at checkout or by request. This ensures parts arrive as quickly as…
Do you offer file repair services?
Yes — Makelab can repair files that are not print-ready. Common issues include non-manifold geometry, inverted normals…
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes — Makelab offers brief consultations to guide clients on materials, processes, and feasibility. These sessions are…
Do you offer high-heat resistant materials?
Yes — Makelab offers materials with higher temperature resistance. MJF nylon (PA12) has strong heat resistance and…
Do you offer industrial SLA options?
Yes — Makelab uses industrial SLA systems for high-detail parts. These deliver smooth surfaces and precision suited for…
Do you offer painting or custom finishing?
Yes. Makelab offers finishing services beyond standard support removal and cleanup, including painting, priming…
Do you offer part labeling or numbering?
Yes — part labels or numbers can be built into the CAD file before printing. This ensures traceability across…
Do you offer production pricing?
Yes—Makelab offers volume-based pricing that dynamically adjusts in our Instant Quote tool. As you increase quantity…
Do you offer refunds on design services?
Design services are non-refundable, as they cover time, labor, and expertise that are delivered immediately upon…
Do you offer resin printing in different colors?
Yes — SLA resin is available in a variety of standard colors, with options to coat or paint for additional finishes.…
Do you offer rush or same-day service?
Yes — Makelab offers expedited production for urgent projects, though availability depends on current queue and part…
Do you offer rush production?
Yes — Makelab offers rush production for eligible projects when capacity allows. Rush is designed for clients with…
Do you offer student or educational discounts?
Yes — Makelab supports students and educators with discounted pricing for qualifying educational projects. Who…
Do you offer volume pricing or quantity discounts?
Makelab offers automatic price breaks when you order higher quantities of the same part. The more you order, the lower…
Do you offer waterproof or chemical-resistant parts?
Yes — certain materials at Makelab provide water and chemical resistance. Nylon PA12 (MJF) is the most durable option…
Do you print medical-grade materials?
Makelab does not currently offer medical-grade or biocompatible materials that meet FDA or ISO 10993 standards for…
Do you recycle materials?
Makelab recycles and reuses materials where possible, but not all materials can be fully recycled after printing. MJF…
Do you ship internationally?
Yes — Makelab ships parts internationally from our NYC facility. Shipping times and costs vary by region, and clients…
Does agreeing to "At Risk" guarantee that my model will definitely be printed?
No, selecting "Acknowledged Risk" does not guarantee a successful print. It means we've flagged issues with your file…
File repair and mesh fixing guide for 3D printing
A 3D printer needs a watertight, clean mesh to produce a good part. Broken files are the most common cause of print…
How accurate is 3D printing? What tolerances can I expect?
Standard tolerances at Makelab depend on the technology: FDM ±0.5mm, SLA ±0.2mm, Industrial SLA ±0.2mm, MJF ±0.3mm, and…
How are prices calculated?
Makelab’s pricing is dynamically generated and primarily driven by the specifics of your part and your selected…
How can I apply a promotional code?
Proceed to checkout once your cart is ready. Look for the field labeled “Promotional Code,” “Promo Code,” or “Discount…
How can I confirm that my 3D CAD file is the correct size?
To confirm your 3D CAD file is the correct size, always check your model's dimensions in millimeters before exporting.…
How can I get a price?
The fastest way to get a price is to upload your 3D file to our Instant Quote — you'll see pricing immediately. For…
How can I get in contact with someone to help me with my project?
The fastest and most effective way to engage with our team is through our Intake Form. It captures the core details of…
How do I check out from an invoice?
How do I create a CAD file if I don't have one?
If you don't have a 3D CAD file yet, you have several options to create one: Option 1: Use free CAD software. Several…
How do I create a customer account?
To use our Instant Quote system or place any order with Makelab, you'll need to create a customer account. Here’s how…
How do I design for threaded inserts or assembly?
Designing parts with threaded inserts or assembly features requires planning for manufacturing and functionality…
How do I get a volume discount?
Makelab offers automatic volume discounts for larger quantity orders. When volume pricing applies: 10+ identical parts…
How do I get started with my first order?
Welcome to Makelab! Here's your step-by-step guide to placing your first 3D printing order. Export your CAD model as…
How do I go from idea to physical prototype?
Clarify: What does the part need to do? What size? Does it fit with other parts? What material properties matter? If…
How do I know if my file is printable?
Files must meet baseline requirements for 3D printing: watertight geometry, proper wall thickness, and no mesh errors.…
How do I know what's going on with my order? Where can I see status updates?
You can view real-time order updates by logging into your Makelab account and navigating to the Orders tab section.…
How do I place an order?
Submit your project details using our Intake Form. Our Service Team will review your submission, define the project…
How do I reorder a part I already printed?
Reordering is straightforward if your file is already in our system. Makelab can quickly locate past orders and…
How do I report an issue with the website?
We appreciate your help in identifying any website issues. If you notice a bug or error, please submit a support ticket…
How do I submit a 3D CAD file?
To submit your 3D CAD file, go to our Instant Quote page. Sign in or create an account, then drag and drop your file…
How do I track my shipment?
Once your order is dispatched, you'll receive tracking information via email automatically. Shipping confirmation email…
How does courier work?
Once your order is ready for dispatch, we coordinate courier through our trusted local courier partner. Here's what you…
How durable are 3D printed parts outdoors or in sunlight?
ASA (FDM) — Specifically designed for outdoor applications. UV-stable, weather-resistant. Top choice. PETG (FDM) — Good…
How local pickup works
Local pickup is free at our Brooklyn factory: 13 42nd Street, Building A, Suite 502, Brooklyn, NY 11232. Choose Local…
How long does 3D printing take?
Makelab offers five production lead times: Next Day: 1 business day. Rush: 2 business days. Standard: 3 business days.…
How long does it take to 3D model something?
Simple Objects: For straightforward models with minimal variables, modeling may take just a few hours. Complex Designs…
How long does it take to print my order?
Your order will be printed within 1 to 7 business days, depending on the lead time selected at checkout. We offer five…
How much do your 3D design & scanning services cost?
Due to the complexity and variability of 3D design and scanning work, we provide custom quotes based on project scope…
How much does it cost to 3D print a custom part?
3D printing costs vary based on size, material, technology, and quantity. Every part is different, so the best way to…
How smooth are Makelab’s finishes?
Surface quality depends on the process selected, and Makelab offers finishing options to match different needs. SLA…
How to choose a 3D printing service — what to look for
Look for a service that offers multiple technologies (FDM, SLA, Industrial SLA, MJF, FGF). A one-technology shop will…
How to design holes, threads, and inserts for 3D printing
Minimum hole diameter: FDM: 2.0mm (smaller holes tend to close up). SLA: 2.0mm (high detail capability). Industrial…
How to design multi-part assemblies for 3D printing
Part exceeds maximum build size. Different sections need different materials or technologies. Easier printing (avoiding…
I chose local pickup, can I have it switched to shipping or courier?
If you'd like to switch from local pickup to a shipping or courier option, please contact us with your preferred…
I don't have a 3D model, what can I do?
No 3D model? That’s totally fine. Makelab offers design engineering, Design for Additive Manufacturing (DfAM), and…
I emailed a few days ago, but have not gotten a response
The fastest way to reach us is to submit a support ticket through the Jarvis chatbot on this page. We respond to all…
I forgot to pick up my part, is it still there?
If you forgot to pick up your part, we may have moved it to storage in our office. For items left for more than 90…
I have a special order request, what do I do? How do I talk to you?
For anything outside the standard quoting flow, production orders, custom materials, engineering review, or special…
I have an idea, can you 3D print it?
Early-stage ideas: If you have a concept or sketch but it's not fully developed, we can recommend design consultancies…
I have store credit, how do I use it?
Store credit isn't automatically applied at checkout. To use it, just leave a note at checkout or remind our service…
I need some advice before submitting an order, what do I do?
If you’re unsure about anything before placing an order—whether it’s choosing the right material, confirming tolerances…
I never received my order confirmation.
If your order was placed after 3:30 pm or on a non-business day, our team will review it and send an order confirmation…
I placed two orders, can you group them into one shipment?
If you've placed multiple orders and would like them shipped together, we're happy to combine them into one shipment.…
I received the wrong part or color - what now?
If you received the wrong part, incorrect material, or wrong color, we'll make it right immediately. 1. Submit a…
I want my parts to be 3D printed in a specific orientation. Can you do that?
If you have a preferred print orientation, simply let us know in the notes or messages section of your order. For…
I've never used a 3D printing service — where do I start?
You’ll need a 3D model file. Common formats: STL, OBJ, 3MF, STEP. Don’t have a 3D file? No problem. You can hire our…
If I split my part to 3D print in pieces, can you assemble it for me?
If your project requires splitting the part into multiple pieces for printing, our team can handle the assembly for an…
If my part turns out perfectly, can I expect this if I order this exact part again?
If your part printed perfectly and you place a repeat order using the same file, material, print method, and finish…
Infill patterns and density guide for 3D printing
Infill is the internal structure inside a 3D printed part. It affects strength, weight, material usage, print time, and…
Is 3D printing good for small batch or low-volume production?
3D printing eliminates tooling costs, making it the most cost-effective manufacturing method for small quantities. No…
Is 3D printing strong enough for functional parts?
3D printed parts can be surprisingly strong. The key is choosing the right combination of material, technology, and…
Is it cheaper to 3D print or injection mold?
3D printing is cheaper for low volumes. Injection molding becomes more cost-effective at higher volumes because the…
Is my order ready?
You have a few ways to check if your order is ready: Log in to your account: Go to your Makelab account and view your…
Is my project a good match for your 3D modeling services?
We typically work from: Reference Images: Ideal for creating non-functional, non-engineering parts. Technical…
Is the cost to 3D print included in your 3D modeling quote?
To accurately quote a 3D print, we need details on the model's volume and surface area. For simple geometries, we can…
My 3D CAD file doesn't fit on your build plate, what can I do?
We can help split your file into sections. We can add male/female attachment points along straight lines on the XYZ…
My part doesn't fit together - what went wrong?
If your 3D printed parts don't fit together as expected, several factors could be at play: 1. Insufficient Clearance in…
My total order price is coming out to 1 dollar or less, is there something I'm doing wrong?
If your total is coming out to $1 or less, it's usually due to incorrect units—most often a part designed in inches but…
My upload failed - what should I do?
If your file upload fails, try these troubleshooting steps: 1. File Too Large — Maximum file size is 100 MB. Reduce…
Observed Holidays
Makelab observes US federal holidays and a few additional closures. On these days, no orders are printed, processed, or…
Our New Brooklyn Address & Pickup Protocol
Makelab moved offices on May 26, 2026. Here is our new address, what to expect when picking up an order, and how the…
Overhang and support structure guidelines for 3D printing
Overhangs are surfaces that extend outward without material directly below them. Understanding how your printer handles…
Print orientation best practices for 3D printing
How a part is oriented on the build platform affects strength, surface finish, accuracy, support requirements, and…
Privacy Policy
Makelab, inc. — privacy policy. Effective Date: March 15, 2026. Last Updated: June 29, 2026. This Privacy Policy…
SLA vs FDM vs MJF — which 3D printing method should I choose?
Best for: Prototypes, functional testing, cost-sensitive projects. Layer lines visible (can be sanded/smoothed).…
Snap fit and living hinge design for 3D printing
Snap fits are one of the most practical features in 3D printed parts — they eliminate the need for fasteners and allow…
Summer Fridays at Makelab
Summer Fridays are in effect from May 26, 2026 through Labor Day weekend. Here is what changes, and what does not.…
Surface finish expectations by 3D printing technology
Every 3D printing technology produces a different surface texture. Understanding what to expect helps you choose the…
Terms & Conditions
These Terms and Conditions (“Agreement”) govern all services provided by Makelab, Inc (“Makelab,” “we,” or “us”) to the…
The prices listed look different than the last time I ordered, what's going on?
Pricing on Makelab is dynamic and based on your actual part and configuration at the time of quote. It’s common for…
UPS Ground Shipping Transit Times by State
All orders ship from our Brooklyn, NY facility. Transit times below are in business days after your order dispatches.…
Wall thickness guidelines by material and technology
Minimum wall thickness depends on the technology: 1.2mm for FDM, 0.8mm for SLA (1.5mm unsupported), 1.0mm for…
What are design guidelines for 3D printing?
Follow these design best practices to ensure your parts are printable and meet quality expectations: Minimum: 1.2mm for…
What are the differences between quality levels?
FDM printing: At any quality level, FDM prints will show visible layer lines. Higher quality settings produce finer…
What are the different order statuses?
Your order status shows where your parts are in production. You can check it any time by signing in to your account at…
What are the expected shipping times?
Makelab offers five lead-time options depending on your project's urgency and chosen material. Once your file is…
What are your high-temperature materials?
For parts that will be exposed to elevated temperatures, Makelab offers several high-temperature materials: Nylon (PA)…
What are your hours?
Regular hours: Monday-Friday, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Summer Fridays: From Memorial Day through Labor Day, we close early…
What are your quality standards and certifications?
Makelab is committed to delivering high-quality 3D printed parts through rigorous processes and continuous improvement.…
What brand filament do you use for FDM 3D printing?
For FDM 3D printing, we use our own Makelab-branded filament, developed specifically for consistent, high-quality…
What causes layer lines and how can I minimize them?
Layer lines are the visible horizontal lines on 3D printed parts where each layer stacks on the previous one. They're…
What clearance should I give two fitting parts?
Clearance between two fitting parts is influenced by several factors, including material choice, machine calibration…
What do you need in order to get started on my 3D model?
To begin your 3D modeling project, please provide as much reference material as possible, including: Reference…
What does 'Dispatch Date' mean?
Your dispatch date is when your order leaves our facility and gets handed off to the shipping carrier. Think of it as…
What happens after I place an order with Acknowledged Risk?
Once you place an order under the Acknowledged Risk option, we proceed to print the file exactly as submitted, no…
What happens after I place my order?
Once your order is reviewed for manufacturability and approved for production, you’ll receive an Order Confirmation…
What happens if I need to update my delivery address?
Makelab can update your delivery address if it’s not the day of dispatch. Once an order is dispatched, carrier…
What happens if I upload a corrupted or incomplete file?
If a file is corrupted or incomplete, Makelab cannot move it into production. Our system will flag the issue, and our…
What happens if I upload multiple files in one order?
Makelab can process multiple files in a single order. Each file is reviewed individually for manufacturability, and the…
What happens if my design requires support removal?
Support structures are removed as part of standard post-processing. FDM and SLA require supports for certain…
What happens if my file is rejected?
If a file cannot be printed as submitted, Makelab will notify you with the reason for rejection. Common causes include…
What happens if my file is too large to upload?
Large files can cause delays if not submitted properly, but our team can provide secure transfer links for oversized…
What happens if my order is delayed?
If an order is delayed, Makelab will notify you as soon as possible with the updated timeline. Delays are rare but can…
What happens if my package is lost or damaged in shipping?
Every Makelab order ships with automatic shipping insurance for the full order value at no extra cost. You don't opt…
What happens if my part breaks during shipping?
If a part is damaged in shipping, Makelab will work with you to resolve it quickly. We package parts carefully to…
What happens if my part fails during printing?
If a part fails during printing, Makelab will reprint it at no additional cost. Part failures can occur due to geometry…
What happens if my part fails quality inspection?
If your part fails our internal quality inspection, we will not ship it. Instead: 1. Identify the Issue — Our QC team…
What happens if my parts don’t meet expectations?
If a part doesn’t meet quality expectations, Makelab will review and resolve the issue. Depending on the cause, we may…
What happens if there is a problem with my order?
Report within 10 days — Let us know within 10 days of delivery so we can address the issue promptly. Gather required…
What if I don't like what you 3D model?
If the initial model doesn't meet your needs, we provide one complimentary revision to make adjustments. During this…
What if I need my parts delivered earlier?
If your parts are needed sooner than our courier service can offer, please change your dispatch method to ‘Local…
What if my parts are completely rejected?
If your parts are completely rejected during our manufacturability review, your order will be put on hold and you'll be…
What industries do you serve?
Makelab serves a wide range of industries and applications with 3D printing solutions. Here's a breakdown of who we…
What infill options do you provide for FDM prints?
You can request this in our intake forms OR on the instant quoter. The standard is 15% infill, unless otherwise noted.…
What information do I need to provide for a quote?
To receive an accurate quote, provide as much of the following information as possible: Essential information: 1. 3D…
What information do you need from me to get started?
All you need is your 3D file (STL, OBJ, 3MF, or STEP). Upload at makelab.com/quote for instant pricing. For complex…
What is "At Risk"?
"At Risk" (also called Acknowledged Risk) is a status for orders we've flagged as likely to have print failures…
What is a 3D CAD file?
A 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) file is a mathematical, digital model that accurately represents the physical part…
What is Tech's Choice?
By selecting the Tech's Choice color option, you let us choose the material color for your print, which speeds up…
What is the "Instant Quote"?
The Instant Quote is our self-service quoting and checkout system. It gives you real-time pricing and a streamlined way…
What is the difference between a prototype and a production part?
Prototype: Tests and validates design. Material can be approximate. Acceptable imperfections. Quantity 1–10. Design…
What is the largest order you can handle?
Makelab can fulfill orders ranging from single prototypes to production runs in the tens of thousands. Order size is…
What is the largest part you can 3D print?
The largest single part we can print is 2400 × 2400 × 1000 mm (≈94.5 × 94.5 × 39.4 in) on FGF. The maximum build size…
What is the most cost-effective material?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a highly economical option for prototyping and testing. Its affordability and ease of use make…
What is the process like for your 3D Design & Scanning services?
Our 3D Design & Scanning process is structured to ensure clarity, control, and precision from start to finish: Project…
What is the standard process to print something?
Every Makelab order follows the same six steps: you get a quote, place the order, we review your design, resolve any…
What is your IP and confidentiality policy?
We take your intellectual property and confidentiality seriously. Your designs are yours, and we treat them that way.…
What is your refund policy?
Refund requests must be submitted within 10 calendar days of receiving your order. We review each request case by case…
What is your reprint/remake policy?
Makelab stands behind the quality of our work. If parts don't meet specifications due to our error, we'll reprint them…
What is your standard infill rate?
Unless specified otherwise, we print with a 15% infill rate. This rate provides a good balance of strength and material…
What material is best for my project?
Our materials selection is designed to meet diverse project requirements: Engineering materials: Ideal for functional…
What material will give me the smoothest finish?
Standard Resin is ideal for achieving a smooth, professional finish. It offers multiple quality settings: Standard…
What materials can you print in?
Our printing capabilities cover a diverse selection of materials tailored for various applications, including: Hard…
What orders are eligible for Rush Production?
Rush Production is available for most materials and part types. The main constraint is whether the estimated print time…
What packaging do you use for shipments?
Makelab uses protective packaging tailored to your part's size, material, and fragility to ensure safe delivery.…
What payment methods do you accept?
Makelab accepts multiple payment methods for your convenience: Credit Cards — Visa, Mastercard, American Express…
What quality checks do you perform?
Makelab performs multiple quality control (QC) checks throughout production, and every order gets a final check by a…
What resolution can I expect from your 3D printing processes?
Resolution depends on the process selected, but all of Makelab’s systems are professional-grade. SLA (Resin): Up to…
What shipping options are available?
Local Pickup: Free. UPS Ground: calculated at checkout based on size, weight, and destination. UPS 2nd Day Air…
What should I do if my part arrives damaged?
If your parts arrive damaged during shipping, take immediate action to document and report the issue. 1. document…
What should I know before designing a 3D CAD file for 3D printing?
Before designing a 3D CAD file for 3D printing, it's important to consider the technology and material you'll be…
What type of files do you accept?
Our Instant Quote accepts most 3D and CAD formats: STL, OBJ, 3MF, PLY, STEP (.step.stp), IGES (.igs.iges), and Rhino…
What's included in your 3D Design & Scanning services?
Our 3D Design & Scanning services are tailored for engineering precision and manufacturability. Services include…
What's the difference between FDM and SLA printing?
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) builds parts by extruding thermoplastic filament layer-by-layer. It's ideal for…
What's the difference between PLA, ABS, PETG, and Nylon?
Each material has different properties suited for specific applications: PLA (polylactic acid). Best for: Visual…
When can I expect my order to dispatch?
Your dispatch date is determined by the lead time option you select at checkout: Next-Day: Ships 1 business day after…
Where can I leave a review?
Reviews help other clients understand what it’s like to work with Makelab. You can leave a review on platforms like…
Where can you ship orders to?
We handle both domestic and international shipping with ease. Whether you're in the U.S. or abroad, we can coordinate…
Where do I find my dispatch date?
Your dispatch date is listed in the order confirmation email you receive after placing an order. Look for the parts…
Which materials are UV-resistant and weather-resistant?
For outdoor applications or parts exposed to sunlight and weather, choose materials with proven UV and environmental…
Why are there marks where supports were removed?
Support marks are normal surface imperfections where support structures contacted your part during printing. They're an…
Why can't I get a refund with my "At Risk" print?
At Risk orders are approved by you with full knowledge that the file has risks (thin walls, unsupported geometry, poor…
Why does changing material affect the price so much?
Material choice significantly impacts pricing because different materials have vastly different costs, print times, and…
Why does my 3D CAD File need support? What is it?
Support material is added to a 3D print when a feature extends with an overhang greater than 45 degrees. This temporary…
Why is 3D printing so expensive?
3D printing might seem expensive compared to mass-produced plastic goods, but the price reflects several factors that…
Why is my quote so high?
Your quote reflects a few core factors: the part's actual volume (in cm³), selected material, and the lead time you…
Why was my file flagged as unprintable?
Files get flagged as unprintable when our engineering team identifies issues that prevent successful 3D printing. 1.…
Will you post my project on your social media?
We respect your privacy and never share project photos without asking first. If we'd like to post about your project, a…
Would my 3D prints last outdoors?
Most standard 3D printing materials are not designed for outdoor durability. Exposure to UV light and weather elements…
Help Center