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What is 3D Printing?

Everything you need to know about how your items are made

How It Works

3D printing (also called additive manufacturing) builds objects layer by layer from a digital design. A 3D printer heats a thin filament of plastic and deposits it precisely, one layer at a time, until the full object takes shape. Think of it like a very precise hot glue gun controlled by a computer.

Each item starts as a 3D model — a digital file that tells the printer exactly where to place material. The printer then builds the object from the bottom up, adding layers as thin as 0.2mm until the piece is complete.

Materials We Use

At ToRemember.gift, we primarily use PLA (Polylactic Acid)— a plant-based, biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources like cornstarch. PLA is one of the most popular 3D printing materials because it's:

  • Safe and non-toxic
  • Available in a wide range of vibrant colours
  • Durable for indoor decorative use
  • Environmentally friendlier than traditional plastics

For items that need extra strength or heat resistance, we may use PETG, which is tougher and more flexible than PLA.

The Good Stuff

Fully Customizable

Every item can be personalized — name, colour, size, or design.

Made to Order

Nothing sits on a shelf. Your item is printed fresh, just for you.

Unique Designs

3D printing enables shapes and details that traditional manufacturing can't.

Low Waste

Material is added, not cut away — minimal waste compared to traditional methods.

What to Expect

3D printed items have a unique character. Here are a few things to know:

  • Layer lines:You may notice fine horizontal lines on the surface. This is the nature of the layer-by-layer process — it's part of what makes each piece unique, like the grain in wood.
  • Slight variations: Because each item is printed individually, there may be minor differences between pieces. No two prints are perfectly identical.
  • Colour accuracy: Colours may look slightly different in person than on screen, depending on your display settings and the specific filament batch.
  • Indoor use recommended: PLA items are best suited for indoor environments. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or high heat (above 60°C) can cause warping.

Have a Custom Idea?

We love bringing ideas to life. If you have a design, a photo, or even just a concept, we can probably print it. Request a custom print quote and we'll let you know what's possible.