Guide

From SpeakCAD to your slicer: PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, Cura, OrcaSlicer

SpeakCAD exports are already in millimetres, resting flat, and watertight. Getting them printed is mostly drag and drop, with a few things worth knowing.
Updated 29 August 2026 · 2 min read

PrusaSlicer and OrcaSlicer

Drag the 3MF onto the plater. When the file has several parts, PrusaSlicer asks whether to load them as a single object with multiple parts or as separate objects: choose separate objects so you can arrange them. The model name from SpeakCAD appears in the object list.

Bambu Studio

File → Import → Import 3MF/STL. Bambu Studio treats 3MF as a project format; a SpeakCAD 3MF contains only geometry, so it imports as a plain object and keeps your printer and filament presets.

Cura

Drag and drop. Cura merges multi-object files into one; if you need parts separate, download the parts individually from SpeakCAD or use "Ungroup" after import.

Units and scale

SpeakCAD always writes millimetres. If a slicer offers to convert from inches because the model "looks small", say no; check the dimensions readout in SpeakCAD's viewer instead.

  • Layer height 0.2 mm (0.12 for fine details, gears and threads)
  • 3 perimeters, 15 to 20% gyroid infill
  • 4 to 5 perimeters for brackets, hooks and anything with screws
  • Brim for tall thin parts, no supports for SpeakCAD models unless you asked for overhangs
  • PETG for outdoor or loaded parts, PLA for everything else

Multi-part models

When you asked for several parts (an enclosure and its lid), they are laid out on the bed with gaps. Slice them together or split them in the slicer; both orientations were chosen to print without supports.

  1. 1
    Download STL or 3MFClick STL or 3MF in the viewer. Prefer 3MF for modern slicers; both cost one credit for the same design.
  2. 2
    Open the file in the slicerDrag it onto PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, OrcaSlicer or Cura. If asked whether the file contains multiple objects, answer yes to keep parts separate.
  3. 3
    Check units and orientationThe model should already be in mm and flat on the bed. If a slicer asks about inches, decline the conversion.
  4. 4
    Set perimeters and infill3 perimeters, 15% infill for general parts; 4 to 5 perimeters for brackets.
  5. 5
    Slice and printPreview the first layer, then print. If the fit is off, fix it in SpeakCAD and re-download for free.

Related guides

STL vs 3MFSTL 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.Print-ready design rulesThe design rules that make a 3D model print reliably on an FDM printer: wall thickness, overhangs, bridges, holes, chamfers, orientation. Applied automatically by SpeakCAD.Wall thicknessMinimum 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.

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