Calculate the cost of 3D Printing.
How to Calculate the Cost of 3D Printing: A Guide for Businesses Looking to Prototype or Scale Branded Products
3D printing is rapidly changing how businesses prototype, test, and manufacture unique products. Whether you're looking to develop a custom part, produce short-run promotional items, or test a new product concept, understanding how to calculate the cost of 3D printing is essential to planning and budgeting.
We at Slick Designs & Apparel (SD&A) use this technology to help clients develop their merchandise, molds and mockups smarter, faster, and more affordably.
Featured Snippet: How Do You Calculate the Cost of 3D Printing?
To calculate the cost of 3D printing, consider these five factors:
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Material type and quantity
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Machine time (based on printer speed and duration)
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Model complexity and print resolution
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Post-processing requirements
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Labor and design preparation
Use online tools like Prusa’s calculator, Omni Calculator, or Xometry’s estimator to get a general sense of pricing.
Key Cost Factors in 3D Printing
1. Material Costs
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Filament (e.g., PLA, PETG, ABS): $20–$60/kg
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Resin for SLA/DLP prints: $50–$150/L
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Specialized materials (carbon fiber, metal-infused): higher cost
Tip: Efficient designs can reduce material waste and cut down cost. Infill, the way a hollow portion in a print is filled in, should be reduced and simplified as much as possible.
2. Machine Time
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Most services charge by print time (e.g., $1–$5/hr)
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Higher resolution prints take longer, increasing cost
Tip: Batch similar prints to reduce downtime and per-unit cost.
3. Complexity and Print Resolution
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Intricate geometry increases slicing and printing time
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Thinner layers = smoother finish, but more time
Tip: Match resolution to function—don't overpay for aesthetics if it’s just a prototype.
4. Post-Processing
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Support removal, sanding, curing, or painting adds labor cost
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Mold making often includes extra steps like sealing and casting prep
5. Labor and Design Services
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In-house design rates or external CAD services add to budget
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Revising files for print optimization is often overlooked in initial quotes
Tip: Ensure when files are submitted to print shops that they are the best possible version you can provide. Additional work adds to your budget and could be unnecessary.
Why Small-to-Mid-Sized Businesses Should Care
For businesses needing to test ideas, showcase branding, or impress customers without costly tooling, 3D printing is a fast, affordable solution.
Here’s how we are helping clients use 3D printing to their advantage:
Low-Cost Prototypes for Product Validation
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Test product fit, function, or appeal before committing to full production
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Quickly iterate based on feedback without expensive tooling
- Make custom molds for one of kind merchandise that would otherwise cost thousands.
Short-Run Production for Promotional Items
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Create branded items to accommodate unique merchandise for the purpose of carrying protection and or showcasing.
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Ideal for company swag, giveaways, or client gifts. (We plan to create custom care packages with solid 3D prints, it'll be on our instagram when we finishing designing them.
Custom Molds for Resin or Silicone Casting
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We create 3D printed molds to speed up casting workflows
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Great for low-volume production or visual mock-ups
These methods help clients test ideas, win over stakeholders, and generate buzz—all without heavy upfront investment.
(Little roughed up from pouring and release mold material)
(Finished mold with resin curing to get the following resin puck)
This whole process allowed us to troubleshooting the possible of making merchandise no one else can make. We can conform to any shape, encapsulate any material and ensure perfect surface clarity.
Tools to Estimate Your Own 3D Printing Costs
Mentioned before, but if you want to crunch some numbers yourself. Check out these cost calculators to get a general picture of costs:
These platforms let you input dimensions, material choices, and other specs to estimate your project's pricing.
Final Thoughts: Let SD&A Help You Build, Test, and Grow
At Slick Designs & Apparel, we combine creativity with technology to bring your physical product ideas to life. Whether it’s:
A custom prototype to validate an invention
A short-run promotional item to boost your brand.
Custom molds for your casting process.
We’ll help you understand costs, reduce risk, and move faster toward launch.
Ready to see what’s possible? Contact us now to request a quote or book a free consultation for your next 3D-printed project.