SVG to 3D print: how to turn a logo into a 3D model

Why SVG is not enough

SVG is a W3C standard for vector graphics. It describes lines and curves in a plane, like the logo of a company. It lacks a third dimension, which is why you cannot upload it to us. The calculator accepts STL, 3MF, OBJ and STEP.

Turning an SVG into a 3D model is easy, though: the outline is extruded to a height of, say, 3 mm, which gives a flat part in the shape of the logo.

How to turn an SVG into a model

• Tinkercad: import the SVG and set the height right away. The simplest way.
• Blender: imports the curves and turns them into a solid by extruding.
• OpenSCAD: the linear_extrude command with an imported outline.
• Fusion: insert it as a sketch and extrude it.

Then save the export as STL or 3MF. If the logo has several colours, make each colour a separate body and assign them to filaments in the 3MF.

What to watch out for when printing a logo

Thin lines are the most common problem. Our nozzle is 0.4 mm, so a detail smaller than about 0.8 mm will not print cleanly, see smallest detail. So thicken any fine decorative lines before exporting. Merge overlapping curves in the SVG so you get one closed outline with no holes.

A flat part 2 to 3 mm thick prints quickly and cheaply, and plenty of them often fit on one build plate. For hundreds of pieces (for example promotional items or keyrings) that lowers the price per piece. The calculator shows the price and delivery date right after you upload the model.

Example: a logo on a keyring

Take a clean SVG with a simple outline, set the thickness to 3 mm and add a hole for the ring. The finished part comes out of one piece of plastic with no supports, and plenty fit on one build plate at once. With larger quantities the price per piece therefore drops sharply. Size is no problem for the 246 × 246 mm build plate, since these are small objects.

If you want a two-colour logo, make the backing and the letters two bodies and save as 3MF. You can read more about colours under multicolour printing.