By Printara

2026-10-23

What to Send for a Custom 3D Printing Quote

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"Can you print this?" is a useful opening question. To turn it into a clear quote, explain what "this" means: the model version, its finished size, how many you need and the work you expect after printing.

You do not need to choose every technical setting yourself. Separate what matters to you from decisions you want the maker to recommend. Write "please advise" wherever you are unsure.

First, say whether you need a model or a print

Printing an existing model and creating one from references are different requests. Say which stage you have reached:

• A model file you want printed without design changes.
• A model file that needs specific edits or an assessment.
• Photos, a sketch or an idea that still needs modelling.

For an existing file, identify the filename and revision. Explain whether parts are separate, whether a base is included and whether supports have been added. Keep the original unchanged; ask which format and transfer method the maker accepts before converting or sending it.

An STL describes geometry. A 3MF project can also contain settings and other information, so name the application that saved it. The Prusa project-format guide explains that distinction; it does not establish which files another service accepts.

For references, explain what each image should communicate: pose, proportions, detail or colour. Identify anything that must not be copied. Only share material you own or have permission to use.

Give dimensions, not just a scale label

Write the required overall height, width and depth with units. State whether the height includes the base, raised accessories and other protruding parts. Give the available display space separately from the desired model dimensions.

An annotated front and side view can show where measurements begin and end. Mark essential dimensions and those that can change. If a part must meet another object, show that connection and ask how to specify the fit. Do not invent a clearance or assume resizing the whole model will preserve it.

For a separate file-readiness discussion, see what to check before printing a generated miniature. Keep the quote brief focused on the required result rather than prescribing printer settings.

Describe the finish as work to be included

"Finished" can hide different expectations. Ask whether the quote includes support removal, surface preparation, assembly, primer or painting. These are questions to resolve, not services every maker supplies.

Say which faces will be visible, whether seams may show and whether you plan to assemble or paint the piece yourself. If colour matters, provide an authorised reference and ask how the intended result will be agreed. A reference photo alone is not a price commitment.

If you do not know the material, describe the intended use and ask for a recommendation. Mention handling, exposure or functional requirements rather than choosing a material solely by its colour.

Copy this blank request worksheet

Fill this in before requesting a quote. Leave unknowns marked "please advise". This is a preparation worksheet, not a promise that an online form accepts every field or file.

Purpose and intended use:
What I have: model, project, photos, sketch or idea:
Filename, revision, format and creating application:
Rights or permission for the model and references:
Overall height x width x depth, with units:
Base and accessories included in those dimensions:
Critical dimensions, connections or display limits:
Quantity and differences between copies:
Visible faces and acceptable seams:
Desired finish and work I will do myself:
Material preference or requirements needing advice:
Delivery country and postal area:
Arrival deadline or preferred date:
Changes to confirm with me before proceeding:

Confirm the scope before agreeing

Ask which file revision and dimensions the quote covers, what preparation and finishing are included, and how design changes would affect it. Confirm packing, delivery charges and timing separately; a requested date is not an accepted deadline.

For a bespoke project, Printara Atelier is the relevant starting point. Its attachment field accepts images for photos or sketches, not STL or 3MF model uploads. Describe any existing model in your brief and ask for an accepted transfer method. Confirm the available service and quoted scope before work begins.