3D Printing Design Principles Model Set
Following the launch of our updated Designing for 3D Printing course, we are now releasing the 3D Printing Design Principles Model Set as a free download. The model set helps you understand the core principles of designing for FFF 3D printing through simple, physical examples.
13th April 2026 • Tips
From Theory to Real Prints
Designing for 3D printing is not just about creating shapes in CAD. It is about understanding how those shapes behave when they are printed. Each model in the set demonstrates a key principle, allowing you to see how design decisions affect printability, strength, and surface quality. Instead of relying on theory alone, you can observe these effects directly through real prints. The set includes examples of:
- Overhangs
- Bridging
- Minimum features
- Orientation
- Fillets
- Chamfers
- Tolerance
- Holes
- Sharp points
Alongside the model set, we have included a short Design Principles Guide. The model set allows you to explore each concept through real prints, while the guide provides clear explanations, visual references, and practical rules of thumb. Together, they give you both a physical and visual way to understand and apply the principles.
Designed to Be Simple and Practical
The models are intentionally simple and are designed to be printed using standard settings. The aim is not to achieve perfect prints, but to observe how each feature behaves under typical conditions. Small imperfections are expected and form part of the learning process.
How This Links to the Course
This model set and guide are part of our Designing for 3D Printing course. In the course, you can see further details of these same principles, and how they are applied to real CAD designs and product examples. You’ll also see how features succeed or fail in practical scenarios, and how to adapt your designs to improve print quality, strength, and reliability.
The model set helps you observe the principles, while the course shows you how to apply them in your own designs.
Download the Model Set
You can download the full model set, individual files, and guide through the links below: