10 Ways to Reduce Your 3D Printing Costs

Every Cent Counts

Whether you're running a print farm or selling on Etsy, reducing costs per print directly increases your profit margin. Here are 10 proven strategies.

1. Optimize Infill Percentage

Most decorative prints only need 10-15% infill. Functional parts rarely need more than 30%. Going from 100% to 20% infill can reduce material usage by up to 60%.

2. Use the Right Layer Height

Thicker layers (0.28mm vs 0.12mm) print faster with less material waste. Only use fine layers when surface quality matters.

3. Buy Filament in Bulk

Most suppliers offer 10-20% discounts on 5+ kg orders. Stock up on materials you use regularly.

4. Track Your Actual Costs

Use a cost calculator to know your true cost per print. Many sellers discover they've been undercharging because they only counted material cost.

5. Reduce Failed Prints

Calibrate your printer regularly. A 10% failure rate means 10% of your material goes straight to the bin. Good bed adhesion and proper temperatures are key.

6. Print Off-Peak

Electricity is cheaper at night in many countries. Schedule long prints for off-peak hours.

7. Optimize Support Material

Redesign models to minimize supports, or use tree supports instead of standard ones. Support material is pure waste.

8. Batch Your Prints

Fill the build plate. Running one small print wastes the same electricity and time as running a full plate.

9. Compare Material Suppliers

Prices vary significantly between brands. A €5 difference per kg adds up fast when you're printing hundreds of kilos per year.

10. Track Everything

Keep a spreadsheet of every print: material used, time, success/fail, and selling price. The data will show you exactly where you're losing money.

Calculate Your Savings

Use LayerCost's calculator to model different scenarios and find where your biggest savings are hiding.