Guides

Design parts that print the first time

Short, practical references. The same rules SpeakCAD applies when it writes your model.
20 August 2026

STL vs 3MF

STL and 3MF both work in every slicer, but they are not equal. Learn what each format stores, when 3MF is better, and which one to download from SpeakCAD.22 August 2026

Print-ready design rules

The design rules that make a 3D model print reliably on an FDM printer: wall thickness, overhangs, bridges, holes, chamfers, orientation. Applied automatically by SpeakCAD.25 August 2026

Tolerances & fits

How much clearance to leave for press fits, sliding fits, snap fits, lids and bearings on an FDM printer, and how to describe them so SpeakCAD gets the fit right first time.27 August 2026

Wall thickness

Minimum and recommended wall thickness for FDM and resin printing, how it interacts with nozzle size and perimeters, and what to ask SpeakCAD for on different parts.29 August 2026

Exporting to slicers

Step-by-step: download your model from SpeakCAD and print it with PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, OrcaSlicer or Cura. Units, orientation, multi-part files and recommended settings.1 September 2026

How to prompt for CAD

A practical guide to prompting an AI CAD tool: what to measure, how to describe features and fits, and how to iterate. Templates for brackets, enclosures, knobs and stands.

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