About Printing 3D Models

You can send 3D models to a local 3D printer or to a 3D printing service.

3D Printing Services

You can use a 3D printing service to output physical models from 3D models.

When you use the 3DPRINTSERVICE, you specify 3D data from a DWG file that is then translated to a faceted mesh representation consisting of triangles. This representation is saved as a binary STL file that can used by a 3D printing service to create a physical model.

How to Create and Obtain Physical Models

The following diagram illustrates, the basic steps of creating and obtaining a physical model:
Prepare your 3D model To ensure successful printing of your 3D model, you may need to make some adjustments to your drawing.
Select the 3D solids you want to print You must select the 3D solids you want to print.

Only the 3D solids you select are printed, even if there are others in your drawing.

Save your drawing as an STL file You must save your drawing as an STL file.

3D printing services require that your drawing be saved in this format.

Select a 3D printing service You must select a 3D printing service.

When making your decision carefully consider cost, materials, and minimum requirements.

Send the STL file to your 3D printing service After you select a 3D printing service, follow the directions on their website to obtain your model.

Autodesk Print Studio

With 3DPRINT, you can send your 3D models to Print Studio (if previously installed) for editing and printing. For more information, see the Print Studio Help.

Note: Print Studio is no longer available for download and must have been previously installed.