Optimizing for Output

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Optimizing for Output

Output Optimization — Preparing models for web and 3D printing

Different outputs need different preparations.

For Web (GLB)

Goals

Small file size
Fast loading
Good visual quality

Tips

Keep polygon count reasonable
Use simple materials (PBR)
Test in browser before deploying
Consider compression settings

Size Guidelines

Simple objects: < 500KB
Complex scenes: < 2MB
Try to stay under 5MB total

For 3D Printing (STL)

Requirements

Watertight mesh
Correct scale (usually mm)
No internal geometry
Minimum wall thickness

Checklist

✅ Mesh is watertight
✅ Scale matches real-world size
✅ Walls are thick enough (>1mm)
✅ No overhangs >45° (or plan supports)
✅ Object sits flat on ground

Common Print Sizes

Most printers: ~20×20×20cm max
Check your printer's build volume
Design within constraints

Pre-Export Checklist

Before any export:

Check from all angles

- Orbit around entire model - Look for gaps or errors

Verify dimensions

- Open Properties panel - Confirm scale is as expected

Test materials

- Colors look correct? - Metalness/roughness appropriate?

Clean up scene

- Hide helper objects - Delete unused items - Name objects clearly

File Naming

Use clear, descriptive names:

phone-stand-v2.glb
enclosure-final.stl
product-model-2024-01-15.glb

Include version or date for tracking!

Lesson 2 of 2 in Mesh Quality & Optimization

Optimizing for Output

Different outputs need different preparations.

For Web (GLB)

Goals

Small file size
Fast loading
Good visual quality

Tips

Keep polygon count reasonable
Use simple materials (PBR)
Test in browser before deploying
Consider compression settings

Size Guidelines

Simple objects: < 500KB
Complex scenes: < 2MB
Try to stay under 5MB total

For 3D Printing (STL)

Requirements

Watertight mesh
Correct scale (usually mm)
No internal geometry
Minimum wall thickness

Checklist

✅ Mesh is watertight
✅ Scale matches real-world size
✅ Walls are thick enough (>1mm)
✅ No overhangs >45° (or plan supports)
✅ Object sits flat on ground

Common Print Sizes

Most printers: ~20×20×20cm max
Check your printer's build volume
Design within constraints

Pre-Export Checklist

Before any export:

Check from all angles

- Orbit around entire model - Look for gaps or errors

Verify dimensions

- Open Properties panel - Confirm scale is as expected

Test materials

- Colors look correct? - Metalness/roughness appropriate?

Clean up scene

- Hide helper objects - Delete unused items - Name objects clearly

File Naming

Use clear, descriptive names:

phone-stand-v2.glb
enclosure-final.stl
product-model-2024-01-15.glb

Include version or date for tracking!