Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about 3D printing services at Sunstone 3D Printing in Calgary.
What types of 3D printing do you offer?
We offer three main types of 3D printing in Calgary: FDM 3D printing, resin 3D printing, and multi-color 3D printing. FDM is best for strong, functional parts, resin is ideal for high-detail models, and multi-color printing is great for logos, display pieces, and visually branded parts. Together, they cover most needs for students, hobbyists, startups, and established businesses.
Where are you located in Calgary, and do you accept local pickup?
We are located at 1026 16 Ave NW, Calgary, right next to SAIT in the Mount Pleasant area. Local pickup is available by arrangement, which is especially convenient for fragile resin prints and urgent projects. Being nearby makes us a practical choice if you are around SAIT, Capitol Hill, Tuxedo Park, Crescent Heights, Hillhurst, and surrounding NW neighborhoods.
How much does 3D printing cost?
Pricing depends mostly on material, print time, and how much preparation a file needs. Simple parts in PLA are usually more affordable, while complex geometries, resin prints, and carbon fiber–infused materials cost more. The easiest way to get an accurate number is to send your file and a brief description of how the part will be used, and we will provide a clear quote before printing anything.
How long does a typical 3D printing job take?
Turnaround time varies with size, complexity, and our current queue, but many smaller jobs are completed in a few days. Larger or more detailed projects can take longer, especially if we are doing CAD cleanup, test prints, or small-batch production. If you have a specific deadline—for example, a school presentation or a prototype meeting—let us know up front so we can plan around it.
What materials can you print with?
We work with a range of commonly used 3D printing materials, including PLA, ABS, ASA, PETG, standard resins, engineering resins, and carbon fiber–infused filaments. PLA is great for general-purpose parts and models, ABS and ASA are better for functional or outdoor parts, PETG is tough and slightly flexible, and resin is best for high detail. Carbon fiber–infused materials are used when stiffness and dimensional stability are a priority.
Should I choose FDM or resin for my project?
Choose FDM 3D printing if you need strong, functional parts, larger prints, or cost-effective prototypes. Choose resin 3D printing if you need fine details, smooth surfaces, miniatures, small precise components, or visually polished models. If you are unsure, send us your file and what you want to do with the part, and we will recommend the most suitable process.
Do you offer multi-color or branded 3D prints?
Yes. Our multi-color 3D printing service is ideal for logos, brand models, display pieces, nameplates, and small awards. We often work from artwork created by a design agency or graphic designer and then translate that 2D brand work into physical 3D objects. Multi-color printing can also be combined with FDM or resin parts when you need both visual appeal and functional strength.
What file formats do you accept, and how do I send my design?
We commonly work with STL, STEP, and OBJ files. You can email your files directly to contact@sunstone3d.com along with a short description of the part, preferred material, and any deadlines. If you are exporting from CAD or modeling software and are not sure which format to use, we can guide you so your file is suitable for a 3D printing service and not just for rendering.
Can you fix my file or help prepare a model for 3D printing?
Yes. We provide CAD support and file optimization for 3D printing. That includes fixing non-manifold geometry, adjusting wall thickness, improving printability, and suggesting changes to make the part more robust. This service is useful for students, hobbyists, and also for teams working with a design agency, industrial design company, or engineering consultant who want to be confident a model will print correctly.
Do you only work with businesses, or also with students and hobbyists?
We work with everyone. Sunstone 3D Printing supports students, hobbyists, makers, startups, and established businesses across Calgary. Some people treat us like a compact makerspace with professional output, while others use us as a specialized print shop or technical partner for ongoing product development.
Can you handle projects from agencies, design studios, or engineering firms?
Yes. We frequently collaborate with design agencies, graphic designers, industrial design companies, and engineering consultants. We can help refine models for manufacture, print prototypes for client presentations, and produce short runs for testing or limited launches. The goal is to complement the design and engineering work you already do, not replace it.
Do you offer laser cutting or other fabrication services?
Our core focus is 3D printing, CAD preparation, and prototyping. While we are not a full-scale laser cutting service or large plastic fabrication company, we often help clients decide which parts are best made with 3D printing and which might be better suited to other fabrication methods. If a project clearly calls for a different process, we will tell you and help you plan around it.
Ready to Start Your Project?
Send us your files and requirements for a quick quote.
Visit us at 1026 16 Ave NW, Calgary (Near SAIT)