3D Print Supports: When You Need Them

Supports are temporary structures that hold up parts of a model that would otherwise print in mid-air.

When you need supports

• Overhangs steeper than about 45 degrees from vertical
• Long bridges that sag
• Floating features that start in mid-air

How to reduce supports

• Rotate the part so fewer areas overhang.
• Split the part into two pieces that print flat.
• Use angled or chamfered edges instead of flat overhangs.

Supports and finish

Supports use extra material and time, and they leave marks where they touch the part, so some finishing may be needed.

When you ask for a quote

Tell us how the part should be oriented, if it matters. We check whether supports are needed and confirm that in the final quotation.

More guides