Straight answers
Before you send it.
If we can make it properly, safely and legally, we can MakeThat. If we can't, we'll say so.
3D files
Which files can I send?
STL, STEP (or STP) and 3MF, through the form: up to three files, 15 MB each. Anything else, or anything bigger, email it to hello@makethat.com.au or paste a link in the form.
| Format | Best for | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| STL | A shape that's ready to print | Binary STL is smaller than text STL. It holds the shape only, so if it needs changing, we may redraw it. |
| STEP / STP | When exact sizes matter, or the part needs changing | Keeps the true geometry and dimensions. Usually the best file to send from CAD. |
| 3MF | A project from Bambu Studio or another slicer | Welcome as it is: it can carry the plate and settings as well as the shape. |
Do you check my file?
Yes. We check it will print well before we quote. If it needs changes to print properly, we'll say what and quote it.
No file? Photos and broken parts
Can you make a part from photos?
Often, yes. Photos from a few angles with a ruler in shot, and one of where it fits, are the best start. For a flat part, print our photo sheet (A4) and lay the part on it: we can measure it straight from the photo. For parts that have to fit tightly, we may still ask for a measurement or two. We may ask you to post the part (postage is on the quote), and we'll send it back with the new one. More on replacement parts.
Can you remake any broken part?
No, and we'll tell you early. Some parts aren't suited to being remade, some are cheaper to buy, and some shouldn't be copied. We'll say which, and what we'd do instead.
I only have an idea. What should I tell you?
A sketch or a few words is enough to start. Three things help most: what it has to fit, what it has to do, and anything that must stay exactly as it is.
Who keeps the design you draw?
We keep the design files we make, so the next one is simple. Files you send us stay yours. If you'd like the files for a part we designed for you, we can quote them as an add-on. There are two kinds, quoted separately: a print file (STL or 3MF), to print the same part again; or a STEP file, which keeps the exact shape so a designer can change it in their own CAD software.
Materials and size
Which materials?
PLA, PETG and TPU. PETG for anything outside or wet; TPU for parts that bend or grip. The materials guide has more.
How big can you print?
Up to about 18 cm in one piece (180 × 180 × 180 mm). Bigger parts can sometimes be made in sections and joined.
What about ABS, ASA or nylon?
Not in-house at the moment: they need an enclosed printer. Tell us what the part has to handle and we'll tell you straight what we'd do.
How accurate is it?
Where fit matters, we print just the critical bit first, like the clip, the thread or the hole pattern, and you check it against the real thing before we make the whole part or the run. We'll publish a typical accuracy figure once we've measured our own.
Will it be as strong as the original?
Not always. A printed part is strong along its layers and weaker across them, so we print it the way round that suits the job and tell you what to expect.
Quotes and price
Is the quote free?
Yes. The first look and the quote are free.
What affects the price?
The material and how much of it, how long it takes to print, any design time, how many you need, and postage. A good 3D file costs less to start from than a part we have to draw from photos, and the price per part comes down on a batch.
What's in the written quote?
The part, the material, how many, the price, any design work as its own line, postage as its own line, and the expected date. It's valid until the date shown on it, normally 30 days.
When do I pay?
In full before we start. For larger runs the quote may set a deposit, with the balance before dispatch. Design work is paid first. No GST is charged: MakeThat isn't registered for GST.
Is there a minimum order?
Yes: $50 an order, with postage on top. One part is fine. Small jobs still take setup and checking, so an order under $50 is charged at $50.
Delivery
Do you only work on the Gold Coast?
No. We're based on the Gold Coast, and parts and samples travel Australia-wide by post or courier.
How long does it take?
It depends on the part and the route. You'll get a realistic date with the quote, before you approve anything.
Can I collect?
Not at the moment. Postage is on the quote as its own line. Shipping and returns has the rest.
What we don't take
What about safety-critical parts?
We don't take them. We make parts; we don't certify engineering. So we don't make structural or load-rated parts, safety-critical vehicle parts (like brakes, steering or seatbelts), anything for lifting, anything that holds pressure, or medical parts. If your part is close to that line, we'll tell you early.
Can you copy a part from a big brand?
If you send us a part to copy, you confirm you have the right to have it made, and we don't copy logos or trade marks. Our terms say more.
Didn't find it?
Ask us. Mike replies within two business days.