PRACTICAL PROJECT GUIDE
How to prepare a useful 3D printing quote request.
A clear brief helps connect the design with the result you need. Use this checklist for a printed part, a prototype or an early manufacturing enquiry.
Explain the job before the file
Describe the part in a sentence: what it is, where it will be used and what you want to achieve. Mention whether you are checking appearance, assembly or a particular function. If you are still deciding on a process or material, say so.
Example brief: “We need a prototype enclosure to check board clearance and cable access before refining the design.”
Gather the useful design information
- Model or concept: share your current CAD file, or sketches and photos if there is no model yet.
- Size and units: state overall dimensions and the unit used, such as millimetres.
- Critical details: identify mating parts, required clearances and important dimensions on a drawing where possible.
- Revision: clearly label the version you want quoted.
- Assembly: include the related components or explain how the part connects to them.
STL and 3MF are common 3D printing file formats; STEP is commonly used to exchange CAD geometry. The most useful format depends on the software and work required. Tell us what you have so we can confirm a suitable handoff. A filename alone does not establish that the geometry is ready for production.
Add the production requirements
- Quantity: the first order and any likely repeat orders.
- Use and environment: expected loads, movement, heat or exposure relevant to the part.
- Appearance: preferred colour and which surfaces will be visible.
- Finishing and assembly: any additional work you need included.
- Deadline and delivery: the date and destination, including time for prototype feedback if needed.
- Design support: explain which changes or modelling work you want help with.
If a requirement is undecided, mark it as a question. It is more useful to discuss the uncertainty than to choose an arbitrary specification.
If you don’t have a model yet
Start with a sketch, a few reference photos and measurements of the important features. Explain what must stay fixed and what can change. Allentronics can discuss CAD design and prototyping support as part of the enquiry.
For a larger product development project, describe the current stage and the next decision you need to make. The initial scope can be a design or prototype stage before later manufacturing is defined.
Send the enquiry
Use the Allentronics quote form to share your contact details, description and useful files. We’ll review the project and get in touch to discuss the next step. If the form does not work on your connection, email Jack or call 0447 238 034.
File size and upload availability are controlled by the form provider. If your files are not accepted, contact us to arrange a suitable way to share them.
File format references
See PrusaSlicer’s supported file formats and Autodesk’s CAD export format examples. Software support does not imply that every format is accepted by the quote form; check the upload field or contact us.
Explore the next step
Let’s talk about your project.
Share your idea, requirements and any useful files. We’ll review the project and get in touch to discuss the next step.