3D Printing Guide: How to 3D Print Text,
Lettering and Symbols

Text can include words, numbers, punctuation, and other characters. There are many reasons why you may want to add text to your 3D printed part. It may be for branding purposes or to communicate a message. In this article, we highlight the three main ways you could add text to your part and the best practices for better results.

Adding Embossed Text & Lettering

An embossed text is a text feature raised off the surface of a design. When used right, it creates an eye-catching effect. To ensure that the design is properly visible on the object, it must be designed with a minimum height that adheres to the 3D printer’s capabilities.

Recommended minimum embossed height:

Adding Debossed Text & Lettering

Engraved or debossed text and lettering is a practical alternative to 3D printing embossed text if you wish to conserve both time and material usage. While embossed details are often easier to see on a model, when done right, engraved text is a great option for adding text onto your part.

Recommended minimum engraved depth:

Tips for Designing Text for 3D Printing. Use a Sans Serif Font like Arial – such fonts tend to be without heavy detailing and will print much clearer. Opt for larger fonts – a safe minimum font size for 3D printed text is font size 14.

Post Processing Options

In many cases, directly 3D printing a design with text isn’t possible due to visibility issues, design complications or it may even be that the part itself may be too awkwardly shaped for embossing or debossing. This is often the case for logos and symbols. In such cases, we can add the text, lettering and symbols during post processing (after the 3D printing process is completed). There are several different ways to do this:

• Laser engraving
• Silk-screening
• Pad printing

For these options, often, manufacturers will ask you to prepare a file in Adobe Illustrator® (AI) format noting the size of the graphics. This software is best for creating high-quality vector graphics and logos and ensures accurate results.