Frequently Asked Questions
The FAQ's
It’s the difference between hitting "print" and actually building something. It means we treat your project with the same respect we’d give our own. We look at the tolerances, the strength, and the finish to ensure that what arrives at your door isn't just an object, but a solution that works.
"It all starts with the file." 3D printing is a game of precision. If a digital file is poorly designed or low-resolution, those flaws will show up in the physical world. I’ll always check your files first to make sure they’re up to the task.
The Gold Standard: If you have an .STL, .OBJ, or .STEP file, we are ready to go.
The "Can you print this photo?" Question: Unfortunately, I cannot 3D print a standard 2D photo (like a JPEG) directly. To turn a picture into a 3D object, it must first be modeled in CAD software.
Design Services: If you only have a sketch or a broken physical part, I can often reverse-engineer or design it for you for an additional fee.
Honest Advice: If you find a file online (like on Thingiverse or Printables), send me the link first! I’ll check it for free to tell you if it’s actually "printable" before you commit to a quote.
3D printing is incredible for custom parts, prototypes, and unique art, but it isn’t a "magic wand" for everything. If I think your idea would be better suited for a different manufacturing method or if an off-the-shelf part is a better fit, I’ll tell you. My goal is to make sure your project succeeds, even if that means pointing you in a different direction.
We primarily work with high-quality filaments like PLA for models and PETG or ASA for functional, "real-world" parts that need to handle heat or stress. When you let us know what the part is for and how it will be used we’ll choose the right one for the job.
At Whatagonnado, I don’t run a "fast-food" style printing factory. Because I provide personalized care for every project, turnaround times vary based on the complexity of the design and the length of the print queue.
Small/Simple Parts: Usually ready within 3–5 business days.
Complex Assemblies/Large Prints: These can take 1–2 weeks, especially if they require multiple days of continuous printing or custom engineering.
The "Care Factor" Delay: If a print doesn't meet my quality standards on the first try, I will restart it. I’d rather deliver a perfect part a day late than a flawed part on time.
I will always give you a realistic completion date with your quote so there are no surprises.
Whether you need a single replacement part for a vintage car or fifty custom pieces for an event, The procedure is the same. Every piece gets the same attention to detail, whether it’s the first one off the bed or the fiftieth.
We provide tailored quotes for every project to ensure our pricing accurately reflects your specific design needs. Once we’ve finalized the details together, you’ll receive a comprehensive breakdown including materials, a realistic ETA for completion, and your shipping options. We want you to have the full picture before we ever hit "print," so there are no surprises—just a solid plan to get your idea made.
Not at the moment. We’ve purposely kept things direct and personal to ensure every project gets our full attention. We are looking into shop options for the future, but won’t launch one until we're sure it can maintain the "Care Factor" and the standards we’ve set. For now, we prefer to start with a conversation to make sure we get your project exactly right.
Although we take extra care with packaging, we can not control what happens after the package leaves our hands. That is the honest truth.
If your package arrives damaged or incorrect, please, contact us immediatelly with photos and PO or Invoice number so that we can resolve the issue in accordance to the ACL.
Based in Melbourne, Shipping Nationwide. Whatagonnado is located in the South Eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria. For local projects, we service the entire Metro Melbourne area. If you aren't local, don't worry—we ship Australia-wide to ensure your project reaches you wherever you are.
International Inquiries: For overseas shipments, we handle requests on a case-by-case basis. We take the time to evaluate the specific timeframes and shipping costs involved to ensure that sending a print across the globe makes sense for you and your budget.
Here is the "straight-talk" on what to expect:
Layer Lines: Because models are built from the bottom up in thin layers, you will see fine horizontal lines on the surface. While I optimize every print to make these as subtle as possible, they are a natural part of the "maker" aesthetic.
Support Marks: Complex geometries often require "supports" (temporary scaffolding) during the print. I remove these carefully by hand, but small marks or "scars" may remain where the support touched the model.
Strength & Material: Most prints are made from high-quality thermoplastics. While surprisingly durable, they aren't indestructible. Depending on your needs, I will recommend the right material—whether it's for a display shelf or a mechanical engine bay.
The "Human" Touch: Unlike a giant factory, I inspect every single print. If a part has a minor cosmetic imperfection that doesn't affect its function, I'll let you know. If a print doesn't meet my standards, I start over.
The Bottom Line: You should expect a high-quality, custom-engineered part that looks like it was made by a person who cares. It won't be "factory-perfect," but it will be "craftsman-good."
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