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Behind the print

How long does 3D printing take? Our turnaround explained

A single print takes from under an hour to most of a day. Ready to Print orders ship within 3–5 business days; personalised orders after you approve the design.

Illustrated cover: how long 3D printing takes

“How long does it take?” is the question we’re asked most. There are two answers: how long the printer takes to make one piece, and how long your order takes to reach you.

How long does it take to 3D print one piece?

A 3D printer builds an object one thin layer at a time, so print time depends mostly on:

  • Size: a taller piece has more layers. A large vase can take most of a day; a keyring can take well under an hour.
  • How solid it is: a chunky piece uses more material and takes longer than a hollow one of the same size.
  • Detail: fine detail needs thinner layers, which means more of them.
  • Colours: multi-colour prints switch filament between colours, which adds time for each change.

Why multi-colour prints take longer

Our Bambu Lab printer uses an AMS, an automatic material system that holds four spools and swaps between them mid-print. Each swap pauses printing, changes filament and purges the old colour. A two-colour name keyring might need a colour change on many layers, so it takes longer than the same keyring in one colour.

How long does an order take?

Ready to Print: printed and posted within 3–5 business days, or 1–2 business days when it’s already on our shelf.

Personalised:

  1. Your 3D preview is usually ready within 2 business days.
  2. After you approve it, we print and post within 2–3 business days.

Then allow Australia Post’s delivery time for your area, usually 2–6 business days. We email a tracking number as soon as your order ships.

Why not same-day?

Every order is printed fresh, checked by hand and packed to travel. The printer works through a queue of orders, and larger prints can run for many hours. Building in a few days means we can print every piece properly, without rushing.

Need it by a date?

If you’re ordering for a birthday or event, order early, and if timing is tight, get in touch before you order and we’ll tell you what’s realistic. See our shipping page for full details.

Questions and answers

How long does it take to 3D print something?

It depends on size, detail and colours. A small keyring can print in under an hour, while a large vase can take most of a day.

How long until my order arrives?

Ready to Print orders are posted within 3–5 business days (1–2 if already in stock). Personalised orders are posted within 2–3 business days of approving the preview. Australia Post delivery then usually takes 2–6 business days.

Why do multi-colour prints take longer?

The printer pauses to swap filament and purge the old colour at each colour change, which adds time to every layer with more than one colour.

Do you ship outside Australia?

Not at the moment. We ship within Australia only, with tracking.

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