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3D Printing

Print your 3D designs at the IDEAlab Makerspace, available to Ole Miss students, faculty and staff. Upload your file, get a custom quote, and bring your ideas to life.

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Close-up of the 3D printer in J.D. Williams Library in action.

IDEAlab Makerspace 3D Printers

The IDEAlab Makerspace at the University of Mississippi Libraries offers 3D printing services for students, faculty, and staff interested in bringing digital designs to life. Our printers support a variety of educational and creative projects—from prototypes to art pieces—using high-quality PLA filament.

3D printers are available to all Ole Miss students, faculty, and staff for creating three-dimensional plastic objects from uploaded digital design files.

Submit a 3D Print Job

Using the 3D Printers

3D printing must follow university policies and be used responsibly. Users are expected to follow guidelines, cover costs, and ensure their designs are appropriate and functional.

  • The printer may only be used for lawful purposes. Printing is prohibited for objects that:
    • Violate local, state, or federal law.
    • Are unsafe, harmful, dangerous, or pose a threat to others.
    • Are obscene or inappropriate for the library/university environment.
    • Violate intellectual property rights.
    • Violate the UM Creed.
  • The library reserves the right to refuse any 3D print request.
  • 3D printing is operated under a cost recovery model. Charges are:
    • $0.039 (3.9 cents) per gram
    • $0.014 (1.4 cents) per minute
    • + 7% tax
  • Users are charged for failed prints due to design errors. The library covers failures due to printer errors.
  • Printed items not picked up within 30 days become UM Libraries’ property.
  • Only designated UM Libraries staff may handle the 3D printer.

Pricing and Examples

The library operates the 3D printer under a cost recovery model. Users will be charged $0.034 per gram, $0.024 per minute.
3D Printed Colosseum

Colosseum

  • $22.65
3D Printed Tentacle Tablet Stand

Tentacle Tablet Stand

  • $14.73

How to Submit a 3D Print Job

Note that we will do our best to catch obvious design flaws, but you are responsible for the print outcome. If unsure, email us to schedule a short consultation and discuss ways to ensure a successful print job.
Email Us for a Consultation

1. File Type

You will need a copy of your digital object saved with either an 3MF, STL, or OBJ extension.

See Tinkercad and Thingiverse for more information on websites you can use to download pre-made models and software that can assist you with constructing your own.

2. Submit Your File

Send your file through the online submission form.

We will email you back with:

•  The cost of the 3D-printed object
•  Instructions for paying for the print
•  Estimated completion time

Our printer beds are 256mm x 256mm x 256mm (10.08in x 10.08in x 10.08in)

3. Payment

After payment, we will add your object to our printing queue.

When the object is ready, you will be contacted and have 30 days to pick up your object.

Finding and Designing 3D Models

Discover ready-made 3D designs or create your own digital models using free tools. Whether you want to print an existing object or design a custom piece, these resources provide everything you need to prepare your file for 3D printing.

Submit a 3D Print Job

Ready to print your design? Use the form below to submit your 3D model file for printing in the IDEAlab Makerspace. You can upload a .STL, .OBJ, or .3MF file directly, or provide a Google Drive link if your design includes multiple parts. Once submitted, IDEAlab staff will review your file and contact you with any questions or updates about your print. Be sure to follow the Creative Commons licensing guidelines.