Most people who contact us don't have a 3D file. That's fine. Here is how an idea becomes a print.
What to send
- For a replacement part: photos from three angles with a ruler in shot, plus key measurements. Calipers help. Posting or dropping off the broken part is even better.
- For a gift or decoration: a reference photo, the size you want and any names or dates to include.
- For a product idea: a sketch with rough dimensions and how it will be used.
The process
- We quote the modelling time and the print together.
- We draw the model and send you a preview image.
- You approve or ask for changes.
- We print, check fit or finish, and send it.
Photo lithophanes
A lithophane turns a photo into a thin panel of varying thickness. Unlit, it looks like a relief; lit from behind, the photo appears. High-contrast photos with faces fairly large in frame work best.
What about AI image-to-3D?
New AI tools can turn a picture or a sentence into a 3D model in minutes. They are good for figurines and decorative shapes. They are not dimensionally accurate, so anything that has to fit something else still needs measured modelling. We use both and tell you which suits your job.
Common questions
Can you copy a character from a film or game?
We can't print trademarked or copyrighted characters for you to sell, and we avoid reproducing them at all. We're happy to design an original character in a similar spirit.
How accurate is a part modelled from photos?
With good measurements, usually within a fraction of a millimetre. For tight fits we may print a quick test piece first.