3D Printing for Architecture and Design Models
Material picks for architectural models
- White matte PLA: the presentation standard, primer-friendly if hand-painting
- Light grey matte PLA: design review and working models
- Clear PETG: window glazing, glass canopies, water features
- Wood-fill PLA: timber-cladding details
- Marble-fill PLA: stone-cladding details
- Silk metallic PLA: metallic roofing and accent elements
Scale and layer height
- 1:100 site models: 0.16 to 0.2 mm layers, broad gestural detail
- 1:50 building models: 0.12 mm layers, architectural detail visible
- 1:20 detail models: 0.08 to 0.12 mm, fine joinery shows
- 1:1 component samples: standard 0.2 mm, structural integrity matters
Multi-material model strategy
Combine white opaque PLA for massing, clear PETG for glazing, wood-fill PLA for timber elements and silk silver for metal cladding. Print components separately, assemble like a kit. Avoids the complexity of multi-toolhead setup and gives cleaner finishes.
Sydney 24/7 pickup
Sydney customers can collect at any hour from the 24/7 self-serve pickup locker at the Siddament warehouse, 90 Victoria Road, North Parramatta NSW 2151. Order online, pick up at 2 am if you need to.