Next-day despatch, max 3 days No minimum order Personal 24hr quote World-wide · Wimborne, Dorset Multiple filament colours Next-day despatch, max 3 days No minimum order Personal 24hr quote World-wide · Wimborne, Dorset Multiple filament colours
Rapid Prototyping Service

Test your design before you commit to tooling.

For engineers, inventors and product developers who need a functional prototype fast. FDM printing for early-stage design validation, fit checks, and client presentations. Personal quote within 24 hours.

Free quote. No minimum order. Iterate fast.

Who Uses This Service

Engineers, inventors and product developers.

Working on something confidential? We'll sign an NDA on request — your designs and IP stay yours, and no one outside our print team ever sees your files.

Engineers

You have a design and need a physical part to check fit, form, and function before committing to machined tooling. FDM prototypes give you a tangible part in 3 days for a fraction of the cost.

Inventors

You have an idea and need to test it before a manufacturing conversation. We print your concept as a physical object — you can show it, test it, and refine it before it gets expensive.

Product developers

You need a client presentation piece, an assembly test, or a proof-of-concept model. Fast, low-cost, personally handled. No factory lead times, no minimum order.

Why FDM for Prototyping?

Cheap, fast, and surprisingly accurate for early-stage work.

FDM is not the right technology for every stage. But for early iteration and design validation, it's the fastest and most accessible route to a physical part.

Factor FDM (3D Quality Prints) SLS / MJF Injection moulding
Lead time3 days5–10 days4–8 weeks
Cost (1 part)LowMediumVery high (tooling)
Minimum order1VariesUsually 100s
Material rangePLA, PETG, TPUNylon, PA12Broad but fixed
Surface finishLayer lines (post-processable)SmoothSmooth
Best forEarly design validationPre-productionFinal production
Questions

Common questions about prototyping.

How accurate are FDM prototypes?
FDM printing achieves typical dimensional tolerances of ±0.05mm, sufficient for fit checks, assembly tests and design validation.
What materials are best for prototyping?
PLA is ideal for concept models and visual prototypes. PETG is better for functional prototypes that will be handled or tested under light load, including testing that needs a bit more durability.
Can I iterate quickly?
Yes. Because there's no tooling, changes between iterations are fast and low-cost. Send us the revised file and we'll quote the next iteration in 24 hours.
Can you print multiple prototype variants at once?
Yes. If you want to test two or three design variations simultaneously, we can print all variants.
Do you offer post-processing on prototypes?
Basic post-processing such as light sanding and surface finishing is available on request. For presentation-ready prototypes, contact us during the quote process to discuss finish requirements and what's achievable for your specific part.
Can I get a design file alongside the prototype?
If you need us to design the prototype (not just print from your file), the CAD design service is included or quoted separately.

Ready to test your design?

Send the file. We quote every job within 24 hours and despatch within 3 days of approval — most orders go out next-day.