You don't need a 3D file to get something printed. If you can sketch it, describe it or photograph something like it, we can turn your sketch into a 3D print by modeling it for you, printing it and shipping it finished. Here's how design-from-your-idea works, what it costs and how to send a sketch that gets you an accurate quote.
What design-from-your-idea means
Every 3D print starts as a digital model. If you already have that model, you send the file and we print it. If you don't, someone has to build the model first, and that modeling step is what design-from-your-idea covers.
We work from whatever you have: a pencil sketch, a drawing with measurements, reference photos, a PDF drawing or a written description. We model the piece in 3D software, check that it will print well on our FDM (filament) printers, then print it and finish it by hand.
Typical projects include:
- a replacement knob, clip or bracket for something that has no spare parts
- a desk organizer sized to fit one particular drawer
- a custom sign, door hanger or nameplate
- a small figure or ornament based on your own drawing
- a holder, mount or stand for a device you already own
We model original ideas and your own designs. We don't model copyrighted characters, logos or trademarks for resale, and we don't make weapons or weapon parts.
What it costs and how long it takes
Design time is $40 per hour with a 1-hour minimum, and it is always quoted before we start modeling. You see the design estimate, the print price, shipping and the production time in one written quote, and you pay nothing until you approve it.
The print itself is priced by size, like any custom order. Small pieces up to 4 in (100 mm) start at $25, medium pieces up to 8 in (200 mm) at $55 and large pieces up to 12 in (300 mm) at $110. Our custom 3D printing price guide explains what moves a quote up or down.
Because modeling comes before printing, design-from-your-idea orders can take up to 2 weeks. Simple geometric parts are usually quicker to model than organic shapes like animals or faces, which take longer to sculpt. Shipping transit time is extra.
How to draw a sketch we can model from
You don't need to be an artist. A plain sketch with measurements beats a beautiful drawing without them. These habits make the biggest difference:
- Draw more than one view. A front view, a side view and a top view show the shape from every direction. A single angled view leaves a lot to guesswork.
- Add real measurements. Write the overall length, width and height, plus any size that must be exact, such as a hole for a screw or a slot that fits over a shelf edge. Say whether you're using inches or millimeters.
- Mark what matters. Circle the dimensions that have to fit something and note which ones are flexible. "Must slide over a 25 mm tube" is far more useful than a hand-drawn circle.
- Photograph the sketch flat and in good light. A straight-on photo without shadows is easy to read. JPG, PNG, HEIC and PDF all work.
- Include reference photos. If the new piece has to fit an existing object, photograph that object next to a ruler or tape measure.
Tell us how the piece will be used
The same shape can need a different design depending on its job. A decorative figure on a shelf can have fine details and slim parts. A hook that holds a bag every day needs thicker walls, rounded inside corners and a sensible print orientation so the layers don't split under load.
So tell us where it will live and what it has to do. Will it sit in a hot car, stay outdoors or need to bend? PLA and PLA+ are included in the starting prices and suit most indoor pieces. PETG, TPU, silk and multicolor prints are quoted. Our guide to choosing between PLA, PETG and TPU can help you pick.
What FDM printing can and can't do
We design every piece for FDM printing, which builds objects from thin layers of melted filament. Knowing its limits helps you sketch something that prints well:
- Very thin features, such as a wall or pin under about 1 mm, can be fragile or may not print cleanly.
- Raised or engraved text needs to be reasonably large and deep to stay readable.
- Steep overhangs need support material, which can leave marks that we clean up by hand.
- Layer lines are part of the look of an FDM print. They can be reduced but not removed completely.
- We don't offer resin printing, so jewelry-scale detail isn't a good fit.
If part of your idea would be weak or hard to print, we'll point it out when we quote, along with a suggested change.
What happens after you send your idea
- You fill in the request form and attach your sketch, photos and measurements. The form takes multiple uploads.
- We reply within 1–2 business days with a written quote covering design time, printing, shipping and production time. If something in the sketch is unclear, we'll ask.
- You approve and pay a secure Shopify invoice. Orders over $150 start with a 50% deposit, and the balance is due before shipping.
- We model the piece, print it, finish it by hand and check it.
- It ships to you with tracking.
If you'd rather model the part yourself, our guide on preparing your 3D model before ordering a print walks you through scale, wall thickness and file checks.
Design From Your Idea FAQ
Do I need to know CAD to order a custom design?
No. A sketch, a few photos and your key measurements are enough. We do the 3D modeling for you at $40 per hour with a 1-hour minimum, and the design time is quoted before we start.
How long does a design-from-your-idea order take?
Allow up to 2 weeks for modeling and printing, plus shipping transit time. Your written quote states the production time for your particular piece.
Can I order more than one of my design?
Yes. Quantity orders get bulk pricing: 10–24 pieces are 10% off, 25–49 pieces 15% off and 50 or more 20% off.
Got an idea on the back of an envelope? Send it over with your measurements and a note about what it's for, and we'll come back with a clear quote. You can read more about how custom orders work on our custom 3D printing page.