Frequently Asked Questions

We specialize in small–batch and custom production using:

• 3D printing (functional parts, prototypes, fixtures, jigs, brackets, bird accessories, etc.)
• Laser engraving (nameplates, tags, logos, gifts, branding plates)
• Light design assistance to prepare your files for manufacturing

We work with both. Many of our customers are small businesses and makers, but we’re happy to print or engrave one-off parts for hobby projects, repairs, or custom bird cage accessories like CleanPerch.

We operate in the U.S. and currently ship to all U.S. states. If you’re interested in international shipping, reach out and we’ll review options case by case.

Our standard materials are:

• PLA: Great for prototypes, décor, and low-stress parts.
• PETG: Strong, more temperature and moisture resistant; ideal for functional parts and many bird accessories.
• ABS/ASA: Higher heat and UV resistance, good for outdoor or under-hood applications.
• TPU (flexible): Rubber-like, used for bumpers, gaskets, and vibration-damping parts.

If you’re not sure what to choose, you can select “Recommend material for me” on the quote form and we’ll suggest the best option.

Strength depends on the material, wall thickness, infill, and how the part is oriented during printing. For functional parts, we typically:

• Use higher infill and thicker walls in load-bearing areas
• Orient parts so layer lines run with the primary load direction
• Adjust settings based on your application (impact, heat, outdoor use, etc.)

If you tell us how the part will be used, we can tune the print for durability.

3D printed plastics can be safe when used correctly, but they’re not considered food-safe or chew-proof by default. For bird accessories like CleanPerch, we:

• Use materials that are commonly accepted and avoid harsh surface coatings
• Design to reduce sharp edges and trap points
• Recommend that parts are used as intended and checked regularly for damage

If you have specific safety or compliance requirements, please note them in your quote request.

Preferred formats:

• STL – most common format for 3D printing
• STEP / STP – ideal for mechanical parts
• OBJ – supported for certain models

If you only have drawings or photos, we may still be able to help by modeling the part for you (design fees may apply).

Standard parts are printed with a layer height around 0.2 mm, which balances speed, cost, and appearance.

For finer detail, we can print as low as 0.1 mm on suitable parts. Keep in mind that finer layers increase print time and price.

We commonly engrave:

• Wood (plaques, tags, boxes, bird stand bases)
• Acrylic (clear or colored)
• Anodized aluminum and coated metals
• Certain plastics and laminates

If you’re unsure whether your material is compatible, send us a photo and description and we’ll confirm before engraving.

For best results, we recommend:

• Vector files: SVG, AI, EPS, or high-resolution PDF
• High-res images: PNG or JPG at 300 dpi or better

If your logo is low resolution or pulled from the web, we can usually clean it up for a small artwork fee.

In many cases, yes. Custom or customer-supplied items require a quick review to make sure the material is safe to engrave and that it fits our machines. Please send photos, dimensions, and material info first.

You can:

• Use our Custom Parts Request form to upload files and details, or
• Order directly from our Shop for ready-made products like CleanPerch.

For custom work, pricing is based on:

• Material type and amount
• Print or engraving time
• Any design or file-prep time
• Quantity and finishing steps (sanding, painting, assembly, etc.)

We’ll provide a clear quote before starting any job.

Lead time depends on complexity and queue, but typical ranges are:

• In-stock products: usually ship in 1–3 business days.
• Simple 3D printed parts: 3–7 business days after file approval.
• Large or complex projects: 1–3 weeks.

If you have a deadline, let us know up front and we’ll confirm what’s possible.

Yes. For recurring orders or higher quantities, we can often offer volume discounts. Contact us with your approximate quantities and schedule and we’ll put together options.

Yes. If you have dimensions, sketches, or a sample part, we can create a 3D model for you. Design time is billed separately and we’ll quote it before starting.

Absolutely. Sometimes a small change (wall thickness, fillets, orientation, or splitting a part into two pieces) can improve strength or reduce cost. We’ll suggest these changes when we spot them, and we won’t modify your design without your approval.

For custom or engraved work, we typically send a digital proof or a quick screenshot of the setup for your approval before we run the job, especially for logos, text, or anything permanent.

If your order arrives damaged or clearly not matching the approved design, contact us within a few days with photos and a description. We’ll work with you to repair, reprint, or replace as appropriate.

Custom-made items (including personalized engravings and one-off 3D prints) are generally non-returnable unless there is a manufacturing defect or we made an error. If something’s wrong, please reach out and we’ll review it together.

Yes, we typically keep your final approved files on record so you can reorder easily. If you prefer that we delete your files after a job is complete, just let us know.