Find the feel.
The fit. The function.
Start with what your part needs to do. We’ll help you weigh appearance, stiffness, temperature, handling, and the right manufacturing process.
A practical place to start.
Explore thermoplastics for functional prototypes, enclosures, fixtures, and larger parts. Material choice follows the load, temperature, and environment.
Choose with context.
These are starting points for a conversation, not interchangeable material specifications.
| Family | Consider it for | Discuss before printing |
|---|---|---|
| FDM thermoplastics | Fit checks, fixtures, enclosures, larger prototypes | Layer direction, temperature, load, and surface expectations |
| Resins | Fine detail, models, presentation, selected functional uses | Resin grade, handling, support marks, and finishing |
| SLM / DMLS metals | Metal components and complex additive geometry | Alloy, supports, critical surfaces, inspection, and production origin |
| Casting / molding materials | Repeated parts and project-specific production | Tooling, quantity, surface, and material performance |
A few things
to know.
Can I ask you to choose a material?
Yes. Tell us what the part does, how it will be handled, and the conditions it will experience. Photos and a model help.
Can the same file be printed in different materials?
Often, but geometry, wall thickness, support strategy, and intended use may need to change. We review suitability for the selected process.
Does the estimate cover every material grade?
No. The online calculation provides a starting estimate for standard process choices. Specialty materials and unusual requirements need review.
The right material
starts with the right question.
A model, a sketch, a physical part, or just a question. Start where you are.