01 / INPUTS
Six fields that turn an idea into a reviewable request
The goal is not to remove every unknown before contacting a designer. The goal is to separate known facts, preferences and open questions. That makes an initial route, scope and price more honest.
- 01
The result you need
Describe what the object must do, fit, hold, replace or communicate. A functional outcome is more useful than asking only for an STL.
- 02
Reference evidence
Include clear photos, sketches, drawings, product links or an existing model. Label which reference controls when they disagree.
- 03
Known dimensions
Give units and identify critical dimensions. For photo-based work, include at least one reliable scale reference in the same plane as the feature.
- 04
Mating parts or interfaces
Show hole centers, shafts, threads, connectors, clearances and surfaces that touch another object. These usually matter more than the outside shape.
- 05
Use conditions
State expected load, heat, moisture, chemicals, motion, impact and whether failure could create a safety risk. This can change the valid production route.
- 06
Deliverables and timing
Say whether you need STL, STEP, 3MF, source CAD, renders or a physical object, plus quantity, destination and a real deadline if one exists.
02 / TEMPLATE
Copy-ready brief template
Copy this text into your request or working document. Delete fields that truly do not apply, but keep unknown critical dimensions marked as unknown.
OBJECT / WORKING NAME: What I need the result to do: REFERENCE MATERIAL: Links, existing files, photos or sketches: What each reference should be used for: SIZE AND FIT: Units: Overall envelope: Critical dimensions and tolerances: Mating parts or interfaces: USE CONDITIONS: Load, movement, heat, moisture or chemicals: What happens if the part fails: DELIVERABLE: Required file format or physical result: Quantity, destination and deadline: Rights I have to the supplied references: Anything still unknown:
03 / EVIDENCE
How much evidence is enough?
Evidence depends on what the object must do. Appearance-led work can begin with visual references; fit and function need measured interfaces. A request may still begin with incomplete information, but the missing work belongs in the scope.
Front, side and back references; one overall size; the visual features that must be preserved.
A single perspective image hides depth and back-side geometry.
The mating object, interface dimensions, hole centers, insertion depth, clearance and permitted movement.
Overall length alone does not establish fit.
Product make/model, all broken pieces, installation context, an undamaged counterpart and measured interfaces.
Wear and broken edges can distort the original dimension.
Forces, cycles, temperature, environment, failure consequence and any required standard or qualified review.
A printable shape is not proof of safe performance.
04 / CHECK
Before you send the brief
Identify the source
Include the original URL for any third-party model, drawing or image. State whether you created it, licensed it or need help reviewing permitted use.
Separate must-have from preference
Mark dimensions and features that control fit as required. Label color, surface style and non-critical proportions as preferences when they can change.
Describe failure honestly
If failure could injure someone, damage expensive equipment or affect pressure, electricity, lifting or transport, say so before any route is proposed.
Do not choose a process too early
FDM, resin, metal printing, machining or another process comes after geometry, environment, quantity and finish are understood. Start with the required outcome.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Useful boundaries
Can I request a model with only one photo?
Yes, but one photo usually supports an estimate or appearance study rather than an exact fit. Add more views, a known measurement and the mating object when accuracy matters.
Do I need calipers?
Not for every request. A ruler can establish approximate scale for visual work. Calipers are much more useful for shafts, holes, wall thickness and small mating features.
Should I ask for STL or STEP?
STL represents a mesh and is common for direct printing. STEP preserves CAD surfaces and is usually easier to revise precisely. Ask for the delivery file that supports your next step, not only the first print.
Does completing this template create an order?
No. The template is free to use. Sending it to PrintWhat creates a private request for review; paid work begins only after a separate written scope and price are accepted.