[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":122},["ShallowReactive",2],{"article_designing-practical-3d-prints-in-solidworks_solidworks":3,"_apollo:default":120,"_apollo:identified":121},{"posts":4},{"nodes":5,"__typename":119},[6],{"id":7,"slug":8,"title":9,"uri":10,"excerpt":11,"locale":12,"featuredImage":15,"tableOfContents":24,"content":25,"date":26,"authorJobTitle":27,"author":28,"masterings":40,"globalTags":54,"products":63,"disciplines":76,"seo":109,"__typename":118},"cG9zdDo3MDUzNQ==","designing-practical-3d-prints-in-solidworks","Designing Practical 3D Prints in SOLIDWORKS","\u002Fproducts\u002Fsolidworks\u002Fdesigning-practical-3d-prints-in-solidworks","\u003Cp>This blog shows some of my favorite design for 3D Printing tips — presented through a couple of practical SOLIDWORKS case studies that will help you get the most out of your 3D printer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n",{"locale":13,"__typename":14},"en_US","Locale",{"node":16,"__typename":23},{"large":17,"__typename":18,"medium_large":19,"thumbnail":20,"srcSet":21,"sizes":22},"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006.png","MediaItem","https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006-768x531.png","https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006-150x150.png","https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006.png 821w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006-300x208.png 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006-768x531.png 768w","(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px","NodeWithFeaturedImageToMediaItemConnectionEdge",[],"\n\u003Cp>While industrial-grade print quality and engineering-grade materials are now available on fast, affordable consumer 3D printers, I find that many SOLIDWORKS users remain intimidated by Design for Additive Manufacturing (DFAM) principles. As a result, they fail to get the most out of their hardware.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>In this article, we’ll look at some of my favorite design tips for 3D printing — presented through a couple of practical SOLIDWORKS case studies that will help you get the most out of your 3D printer.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Note: This article focuses primarily on tips for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) process for printers common in the consumer and prosumer markets such as Bambu Labs, Prusa, Creality, Markforged, etc.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-case-study-snowblower-chute-spacer\">Case Study: Snowblower Chute Spacer\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The first example I’ll cover is a spacer I designed and printed as part of an effort to “restomod” a 1971 Ariens Sno-Thro snowblower. The original Tecumseh engine finally let go after 50+ years and it was time to replace it with the finest motor Harbor Freight had to offer. The new motor bolted on without any need for custom fabrication, but the linkage that controlled the rotation of the snow chute wouldn’t clear the new, larger cylinder heads.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"595\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage001-1024x595.png.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70537\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage001-1024x595.png.webp 1024w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage001-300x174.png.webp 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage001-768x446.png.webp 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage001.png.webp 1122w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>1\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. 1971 Ariens Sno-Thro motor swap.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Eventually, I determined that by angling the linkage down and away from its original location would clear the cylinder head, but determining the exact dimensions required for this compound angle seemed difficult. Instead of trying to measure it precisely, I batch-printed a set of alternate configurations to swap out and find the ideal fit.  \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage002.gif.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70546\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>2\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. Batch of spacer configurations sliced for 3D printing.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Above, you can see the batch of finished spacers prepared for printing with an estimated total cost of under $3 of PLA (modern slicers provide cost estimation at slice time for various filaments), making this brute-force approach at prototyping very cost-effective.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"617\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage003-1024x617.png.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70538\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage003-1024x617.png.webp 1024w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage003-300x181.png.webp 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage003-768x462.png.webp 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage003.png.webp 1058w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>3\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. Modeling the spacer.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To model the spacer, I captured some of the key dimensions using a pair of calipers and decided to add some locating tabs to make placing the spacer and slipping the bolts through easier.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>On the rear of the model, I inscribed the configuration name and sizing information (cut one layer deep) in case I ever need to reprint it. This is a habit I’ve gotten into for almost any print since it takes barely any additional print time and results in a legible part identifier that won’t easily wear off.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I utilized a 3D sketch with three sketch points to control the compound angle of the upper face, which was easy to vary across multiple configurations. I created a Coordinate System to export my STL files as Z-up and avoid the need for rotation or additional positioning in the slicing software, and I exported each STL file so they could be printed on a single build plate.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage004.gif.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70539\"\u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>4\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. Multiple configurations prepared for printing.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Don’t ask me which spacer ended up being the one that fit the best, but this PLA+ part has already survived multiple New England winters and allows the snow chute to operate normally with a relocated crank handle that clears the cylinder head- no need for additional adaptors or machining.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"579\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage005-1024x579.png.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70540\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage005-1024x579.png.webp 1024w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage005-300x170.png.webp 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage005-768x435.png.webp 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage005.png.webp 1193w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>5\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. Relocated linkage for chute with 3D printed spacer.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>If the part ever fails, I will look at the inscription on the back and re-print it in a material such as PETG, ASA or PA that should be able to withstand a wider range of environmental conditions.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-case-study-sliding-door-magnetic-stop\">Case Study: Sliding Door Magnetic Stop\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Another printing project was a magnetic door stop for a sliding barn door. These double doors didn’t come with a stop in the middle, and I wanted one that would retain the door with a slight amount of force.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"821\" height=\"568\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006.png.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70541\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006.png.webp 821w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006-300x208.png.webp 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage006-768x531.png.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 821px) 100vw, 821px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>6\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. Magnetic door stop for sliding double door.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The solution was a pretty simple lump of plastic, but to make my life a little easier, I specified holes with the Hole Wizard that would clear common drywall screws.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Note the hole at an angle — another great use case for 3D prints is to produce drill fixtures, jigs and other one- or few-time-use tools for intermediary manufacturing steps like drilling tricky holes or making difficult cuts.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"539\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage007-1024x539.png.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70542\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage007-1024x539.png.webp 1024w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage007-300x158.png.webp 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage007-768x404.png.webp 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage007.png.webp 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>7\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. Key features of the door stop.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The holding power is provided by a pair of neodymium rare-earth permanent magnets. I used a D-shaped cutout that would allow placing the magnets with a slight press-fit from the backside of the model and retain them without the need for any additional supports during printing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Alternatively, you can pause the print at a specific layer, drop the magnets into the cavity, and let the printer bridge material directly over them to completely encapsulate the hardware. This is a technique I’ve also used to add washers to the inside of parts for an additional weighted feel.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-dual-dimensions-amp-feature-sizing\">Dual Dimensions & Feature Sizing\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>I recommend enabling “Dual Dimension” display in SOLIDWORKS for any plastic part design where you may be using imperial units for overall dimensions. This is because whether you’re dealing with injection molds or 3D prints, most specifications are in millimeters.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To take your prints to the next level, you can design your wall thickness and Z-heights in integer multiples of the nozzle width and layer height, respectively.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Most consumer printers ship with a 0.4 mm nozzle, so wall thicknesses in the range of 1.2 mm (3 walls) to 2 mm (5 walls) tend to work well, as visualized in the figure below.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1002\" height=\"548\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage008.png.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70543\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage008.png.webp 1002w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage008-300x164.png.webp 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage008-768x420.png.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1002px) 100vw, 1002px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>8\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. Integer multiples of nozzle width.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Dimensions that are non-integer multiples of the nozzle width or layer height may lead to extraneous line moves, extended print times or poorer quality prints, but this is probably only relevant if you’re doing serious volume production.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-stl-export-settings\">STL Export Settings\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>The default settings SOLIDWORKS uses for STL export may not be appropriate for high fidelity 3D prints. I recommend using “Custom” settings and specifying your own tolerance and angle values. The angle especially should be reduced to 1 degree or less to prevent visible faceting on curved surfaces in the resulting print.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"590\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage009-1024x590.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70544\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage009-1024x590.png 1024w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage009-300x173.png 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage009-768x442.png 768w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage009.png 1123w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>9\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. STL export options and coordinate system.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>Optionally, you can check the options for “Do not translate STL output data to positive space” to prevent the STL file from being shifted in space. Specifying a user-defined coordinate system for the “Output Coordinate System” can allow Y-up models to import into the slicer in the proper Z-up orientation, minimizing the need for additional steps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-supports\">Supports\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This is less of a SOLIDWORKS tip and more of a general 3D printing tip, but I think if you have a printer with a filament changer you should be aware of how great of a support material PETG makes for PLA prints, and vice-versa. The two materials are incompatible and the PETG will release very easily from a PLA print.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cfigure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\u003Cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"812\" height=\"561\" src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage010.png.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-70545\" srcset=\"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage010.png.webp 812w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage010-300x207.png.webp 300w, https:\u002F\u002Fblog-assets.solidworks.com\u002Fuploads\u002F2026\u002F07\u002Fimage010-768x531.png.webp 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 812px) 100vw, 812px\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Ffigure>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cem>Figure \u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>10\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cem>. PETG support interface for PLA print.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>You can minimize the time required for filament changes by specifying the PETG only for the support “interface” layers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>This is a technique I use every time I need supports on my organic SOLIDWORKS parts and don’t want to have visible blemishes from cutting off supports, or parts with overhangs too large to bridge. While you can buy specialized “Support” material, in my experience cheap, plain PETG works just as well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Ch1 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-conclusion\">Conclusion\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>3D printing technology is now incredibly practical, accessible, and — thanks to engineering-grade polymers — no longer reserved just for fidget toys. Even a basic PLA+ part can exhibit surprising durability in rugged applications if it’s designed with the manufacturing process in mind.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>To take your custom fabrications to the next level, start intentional design habits early in your CAD workflow:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Batch print\u003C\u002Fstrong> multiple variations to simplify your prototyping efforts.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Account for layer heights and nozzle widths\u003C\u002Fstrong> to achieve optimized toolpaths.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Design with support boundaries in mind\u003C\u002Fstrong> to exploit advanced slicer techniques like PETG\u002FPLA interfacing.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\n\n\n\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Inscribe tracking data directly onto parts\u003C\u002Fstrong> to make your physical iterations completely traceable and easily reproducible.\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>By aligning your SOLIDWORKS habits with the unique realities of the FDM process, you will save time, cut costs and build functional parts that easily survive the elements. Stop treating your 3D printer like a novelty — it’s time to start utilizing it as the ultimate fabrication tool.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\n\n\u003Cp>\u003C\u002Fp>\n","2026-07-20T08:00:00","",{"node":29,"__typename":39},{"nicename":30,"description":31,"slug":30,"name":32,"firstName":33,"lastName":34,"avatar":35,"__typename":38},"ryannavarro","Ryan Navarro is a mechanical engineer, SOLIDWORKS user, and AI enthusiast. He has over a decade of experience working with clients to solve difficult problems using CAD, FEA, and CFD.","Ryan Navarro","Ryan","Navarro",{"url":36,"__typename":37},"https:\u002F\u002Fsecure.gravatar.com\u002Favatar\u002Ff33f10f32372cca384f2ea314835e974a0c5d1ed924994af2ae88701e463dac6?s=96&d=mm&r=g","Avatar","User","NodeWithAuthorToUserConnectionEdge",{"nodes":41,"edges":48,"__typename":53},[42],{"id":43,"name":44,"slug":45,"uri":46,"__typename":47},"dGVybToxOTk2","Tutorials","tutorials","\u002Fmastering\u002Ftutorials\u002F","Taxonomy_mastering",[49],{"isPrimary":50,"node":51,"__typename":52},true,{"id":43,"name":44,"slug":45,"uri":46,"__typename":47},"PostToTaxonomy_masteringConnectionEdge","PostToTaxonomy_masteringConnection",{"nodes":55,"__typename":62},[56],{"id":57,"name":58,"slug":59,"uri":60,"__typename":61},"dGVybTo5NjA0","3D Printing","3d-printing","\u002Ftags\u002F3d-printing\u002F","Taxonomy_tag","PostToTaxonomy_tagConnection",{"edges":64,"nodes":73,"__typename":75},[65],{"isPrimary":50,"node":66,"__typename":72},{"id":67,"name":68,"slug":69,"uri":70,"__typename":71},"dGVybTo1Ng==","SOLIDWORKS","solidworks","\u002Fproducts\u002Fsolidworks\u002F","Taxonomy_product","PostToTaxonomy_productConnectionEdge",[74],{"id":67,"name":68,"slug":69,"uri":70,"__typename":71},"PostToTaxonomy_productConnection",{"nodes":77,"edges":101,"__typename":108},[78,92],{"id":79,"name":80,"slug":81,"uri":82,"parentId":83,"disciplines":84,"__typename":91},"dGVybTo2MA==","3D CAD","3d-cad","\u002Fdisciplines\u002F3d-cad\u002F","dGVybTo1OA==",{"nodes":85,"__typename":90},[86],{"title":80,"uri":87,"parentId":88,"__typename":89},"\u002Fdisciplines\u002Fdesign-engineering\u002F3d-cad","cG9zdDozNzcz","Discipline","Taxonomy_disciplineToDisciplineConnection","Taxonomy_discipline",{"id":83,"name":93,"slug":94,"uri":95,"parentId":96,"disciplines":97,"__typename":91},"Design and Engineering","design-engineering","\u002Fdisciplines\u002Fdesign-engineering\u002F",null,{"nodes":98,"__typename":90},[99],{"title":93,"uri":100,"parentId":96,"__typename":89},"\u002Fdisciplines\u002Fdesign-engineering",[102,106],{"isPrimary":103,"node":104,"__typename":105},false,{"parentId":83,"id":79,"name":80,"slug":81,"uri":82,"__typename":91},"PostToTaxonomy_disciplineConnectionEdge",{"isPrimary":50,"node":107,"__typename":105},{"parentId":96,"id":83,"name":93,"slug":94,"uri":95,"__typename":91},"PostToTaxonomy_disciplineConnection",{"canonical":110,"title":111,"metaDesc":112,"opengraphAuthor":27,"opengraphDescription":112,"opengraphTitle":9,"opengraphUrl":110,"opengraphSiteName":113,"opengraphPublishedTime":114,"opengraphModifiedTime":27,"twitterTitle":27,"twitterDescription":27,"readingTime":115,"metaRobotsNoindex":116,"__typename":117},"https:\u002F\u002Fblog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com\u002Fproducts\u002Fsolidworks\u002Fdesigning-practical-3d-prints-in-solidworks\u002F","Designing Practical 3D Prints in SOLIDWORKS - Blog Solidworks","While industrial-grade print quality and engineering materials are now available on fast and affordable consumer 3D printers, I find that many SOLIDWORKS users remain intimidated by Design for Additive Manufacturing (DFAM) principles. As a result, they fail to get the most out of their hardware. In this article, we’ll look at some of my favorite design for 3D Printing tips — presented through a couple of practical SOLIDWORKS case studies that will help you get the most out of your 3D printer.","Blog Solidworks","2026-07-20T12:00:00+00:00",9,"index","PostTypeSEO","Post","RootQueryToPostConnection",{},{},1784678588467]