No 3D file? Here's how to get your part printed

1. Make a simple part from a template

Plates with holes, L-brackets, spacers and standoffs, washers and boxes with lids are mostly a few numbers: length, width, thickness, hole size. In ply’s Parts Builder you pick a template, type the sizes, see the part in 3D with a price, and order it. You can also just describe it in words and let the builder fill in the numbers.

Good for: brackets, mounting plates, spacers, adapter plates and other parts you can describe with a ruler.

2. Download a ready-made model

Model sites such as Printables, MakerWorld and Thingiverse hold millions of free designs: replacement knobs and clips, hooks, organizers, phone stands, figures and parts for popular appliances. Search for the object plus “replacement” or the model number. Check the model’s license if a service will print it for you; many allow it. See where to find models.

Good for: everyday objects, decor, gadgets, cosplay and replacement parts for common products.

3. Describe it to ChatGPT or Claude

With the ply app in ChatGPT or Claude, describe a part with its sizes and the assistant builds it, checks it can be printed and shows a price. It can also search Printables for a ready-made model you can have printed, and send the part to a ply cart.

4. Have it designed

For a broken part with no replacement online, or anything with curves and precise fits, a CAD designer can model it from the original, photos and a few measurements with calipers. Freelance designers and engineering firms do this, and many print services work with designers. Once you have the file (ask for STEP or STL), upload it for a price.

Measuring the part yourself? Note overall sizes, hole diameters and their positions, and wall thicknesses, and photograph it next to a ruler.

Common questions