frequently asked questions
Quotes, files, materials, delivery and refunds: the things people ask us most, in plain English. Can’t find yours? We usually reply within 24 hours.
Questions,
answered.
Quote First
No paid work until you approve
Plain-English Answers
No jargon, no fine print
Real People
We usually reply within 24 hours
How can we help you?
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From first idea to finished order
More answers for your project.
Explore CAD design, 3D printing, manufacturing options and shopping with PrintingCAD.
Planning your project
Which service should I choose?
Choose Upload & Print if you already have a 3D file, Custom Part Design if you need a CAD model, or a Full Design & Print Project for support from concept through to a finished part. If you are unsure, send us what you have and we will guide you.
Can you turn an AI-generated image into CAD and a printed part?
Yes, an image or diagram from ChatGPT or another AI tool can be a starting point. Send approximate dimensions, reference images and what the part needs to do. An AI image is not a manufacturing-ready file: we review feasibility, develop the agreed design in CAD and confirm dimensions, materials and printability before production.
What should I include in a quote request?
Share your file, sketch, photos or part details, plus dimensions, intended use, quantity, material or finish preferences and any deadline. Tell us about mating parts, fit requirements or critical measurements. Early-stage ideas are welcome; we will confirm any missing information.
How much will my project cost, and when does work start?
Pricing depends on design time, geometry, size, material, process, quantity and finishing. Custom service requests are reviewed before quoting, and paid work starts after you approve the scope and price. Standard shop products follow the price and options shown on their product page and at checkout.
Printing, materials & manufacturing
Do you offer Bambu Lab FDM and multi-colour 3D printing?
Yes. Our printing capabilities include Bambu Lab FDM printers for precision and multi-colour printing. Share your preferred colours and which areas should use them. We review the model, material and print setup before confirming what is suitable for your project.
Can you arrange large-format, resin or industrial 3D printing?
We have access to additional large-format, resin and specialist industrial printing through our UK manufacturing partners. We select the process and material to suit the part’s size, detail, strength, finish and intended use. See our printing and manufacturing capabilities.
Can you help me choose a material and surface finish?
Yes. Tell us how and where the part will be used, including loads, heat, outdoor exposure, appearance and fit requirements. We review suitable options before quoting. FDM parts can show layer lines, and colour, texture and finish vary by material and process; discuss any appearance-critical areas with us first.
Do you support CNC machining and laser cutting as well as 3D printing?
Yes, we can review CNC machining, laser cutting and other suitable manufacturing routes through specialist suppliers. The recommendation depends on material, geometry, tolerances, finish and quantity. We confirm the proposed route as part of your quote.
CAD, replacement parts & confidentiality
Can you recreate a broken or discontinued part?
We can assess replacement parts using photos, measurements or an existing sample, with 3D scanning and reverse engineering support where suitable. Tell us what failed, how the part fits and what it needs to withstand. We review feasibility and material suitability before agreeing the design and manufacturing route.
Can I order CAD design without having the part printed?
Yes. You can request CAD design only, printing only, or both. Agree the required deliverables and export formats with us before work starts, especially if you need editable CAD files or intend to use another manufacturer.
How are dimensions, revisions and design approval handled?
Send critical dimensions and fit requirements at the start. We agree the design scope, review stages and deliverables for your project. If you need changes after approval, contact us promptly: we will review any effect on price or timing before additional work proceeds.
Can you discuss an NDA before I share confidential files?
Yes. Tell us your confidentiality or non-disclosure requirements before sending detailed designs or sensitive information. We can discuss the NDA, file handling and communication arrangements before work begins. Use the contact page to start that conversation.
Shop products, delivery & aftercare
Do you sell standard products as well as custom-made items?
Yes. Our shop includes standard catalogue products and personalised or custom items. Check each listing for dimensions, materials, available options and whether it is made to your specification. For a different size, fit or design, contact us before ordering.
How long will my order take, and what does delivery cost?
Timing depends on stock, design work, production, finishing and the delivery destination. Check the product listing and checkout for shop orders, or your agreed quote for custom work. Tell us about any deadline before ordering. See our Delivery, Returns & Refunds policy for current guidance.
Can I change, cancel or return an order?
Contact us as soon as possible with your order or quote reference. Available options depend on whether the order is a standard product, personalised item, custom project or digital deliverable, and whether work has started. Read our Delivery, Returns & Refunds policy for the applicable terms; personalised and custom items have different change-of-mind arrangements.
What should I do if an item arrives damaged or there is a problem?
Contact us with your order reference, a description of the issue and clear photographs of the item and packaging where relevant. Keep the packaging if possible and contact us before posting anything back so we can provide return instructions. We will review the issue and advise on the next steps under our Delivery, Returns & Refunds policy.
Why People Trust Us?
PrintingCAD, tailored to CAD design, 3D modelling, and 3D printing services.
Engineering-Led Approach
Built for prototypes, functional parts, and custom development work.
File & Requirement Review
We review your file or idea before production to reduce errors and improve fit.
Fast, Clear Communication
Quick responses, straightforward pricing, and clear next steps throughout.
End-to-End Delivery
We approach every engagement with independence, confidentiality and professional responsibility.

