How 3D Modelling Works: From Idea to a Print-Ready Model
How custom 3D modelling works: what to send, how we work together, what it costs and what you receive. The process step by step, with videos from our work.
Short answer: custom 3D modelling has six steps: you send a photo, sketch, file or idea, we clarify the brief, you get a price within 48 hours, we build the model, you check it with us, and we hand it over or print it. Not sure where to start? That is fine, we work it out together.
In short:
- What to send: a photo, sketch, drawing, file or finished model.
- Price: €11 to €35 per hour, indicative and excluding VAT. You get an estimate and an upper limit before we start.
- Timing: 2 to 7 working days for simple to medium models.
- What you receive: the source model, a print file and a drawing with the main dimensions.
- Changes: one revision is included, and further ones are charged by the hour.
What Is 3D Modelling?
3D modelling is creating a digital three-dimensional shape on a computer. That model can then become a real object, for example on a 3D printer. Nothing prints without a model, so it is the first step of any job that has no ready file.
A good model is more than a nice shape. It needs the right dimensions, walls that are thick enough, and a form that can be made and will last in use.
When Do You Need Custom 3D Modelling?
- You have an idea or a sketch but no file.
- A part can no longer be bought and has to be made from a broken piece or a photo.
- You want a personalised object you cannot find online.
- You have a model that needs adjusting, reinforcing or preparing for printing.
- You have a logo and want a three-dimensional object from it.
For a common object, ready-made models for 3D printing can be downloaded online. Custom modelling is for when an object has to fit something specific or look exactly as you want.
How Does 3D Modelling Work Step by Step?
- Send what you have. A photo, sketch, drawing, file or finished model, and tell us what it is for.
- We clarify the brief. We add dimensions, purpose and material. If you do not know where to start, we prepare the brief together.
- You get a price and date. Within 48 hours we send an hours estimate, a price with an upper limit and a date.
- We build the 3D model. We prepare the model to the brief, with production in mind.
- You check the model with us. We send you the model and refine it before printing.
- We hand over the finished model. You receive the files, or we print it, in several parts if needed, and finish it to our standard.
What Does a 3D Model Look Like Before Printing?
The video shows the real Lavašman model still on the computer. This is how we rotate a model and check it from every side before the first physical piece exists.
We look mainly at:
- proportions and likeness,
- dimensions and wall thickness,
- thin parts that could break,
- details that must stay readable after printing.
This model became a finished personalised 3D printed figurine.
How Do We Work Together, and What Do We Need from You?
You do not need to know 3D software or technical terms. Tell us what the object should do or look like. We propose the technical decisions, such as wall thickness and material.
It helps if you send:
- what the object is for and where it will be,
- the main dimensions, if something has to fit exactly,
- photos from all sides, with a ruler in shot for parts,
- your date, if you have one,
- quick feedback when we send the model.
An example from practice: on the snake piece we adjusted the head after feedback, and the customer reviewed the new model before printing. A change on the computer costs less than a change to a finished piece.
We communicate the way that suits you: by email, phone or WhatsApp. If needed, we sign an NDA before you send drawings.
Can a 3D Model Be Made from a Photo?
Yes, but it depends on what is in the photo. For a figurine or sculpture, a few sharp photos from different sides are enough. A technical part also needs dimensions, because a photo alone does not show how big it is. If a part must fit precisely, it is better to send the piece itself. We can also scan complex shapes.
Is an AI 3D Model Generator Enough?
For a quick base or inspiration, yes. For a finished product, usually not. An AI generator does not know a part’s dimensions or where it will be under load, and the model often needs repair before it can print. On characters, the face and proportions need finishing by hand.
What Is the Difference Between a 3D Model and a 3D Visualisation?
A 3D visualisation is an image that has to look good on screen. A 3D model for production must also work as a physical object, with a closed shape, real dimensions and walls that are thick enough. That is why a nice image cannot always be printed directly.
How Much Does 3D Modelling Cost?
We charge modelling by the hours worked, about €11 to €35 per hour excluding VAT. Before we start you get an hours estimate and a price with an upper limit that we will not exceed without your agreement.
| Brief | Estimated hours |
|---|---|
| Simple holder or adapter from a photo with dimensions | 1 to 2 |
| Electronics enclosure with connector openings | 3 to 6 |
| Assembly jig from a part and a description | 4 to 8 |
For figurines and sculptures, the time depends mainly on the detail. A 10 cm figurine starts from about €24. You pay for the model once, and further pieces only cost printing. More detail is in how much 3D printing costs.
How Long Does 3D Modelling Take?
We deliver simple to medium models in 2 to 7 working days. The work itself can take a few hours, and the rest is feedback and changes. A complete brief and a quick response to the draft shorten it most.
What Do I Receive at the End?
- The source model in STEP or a native format.
- An STL or 3MF file for printing.
- A drawing with the main dimensions for checking.
- A printed sample on request.
The model is yours and you can have it made anywhere. If you prefer, we print it here with our custom 3D printing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many changes are included?
One revision is included, and further ones are charged by the hour. It helps to send your comments together.
I already have an STL file. Do I need modelling?
If the file is fine, no. If it has errors, wrong dimensions or thin walls, we repair it. Our guide on how to prepare a model for 3D printing shows what to check.
Can I create a 3D model myself?
Yes. There are free 3D modelling programs for simple shapes. For parts that must fit or carry load, it is worth starting with an experienced modeller, because printing and repairs both take time.
Can you model a part from a broken piece?
Yes. We measure the part, model it and reinforce the weak spot. See custom spare parts.
Ready to start? Send a photo, sketch or just a description through the quote form and within 48 hours we will tell you the price and date. The service is on the custom 3D modelling page.