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Preparation Work

Account for setup and pre-print labour time in your calculations

Overview

The Preparation Time card is a collapsible section in the calculator. It covers every task you do before the print starts — model preparation, slicing, filament changes, and getting the print running. All fields are entered in minutes.

Tip: This section is collapsed by default. Click it to expand, or turn on the Advanced toggle (top-left) to auto-expand all collapsible sections at once.

Entering Preparation Times

Each field accepts a value in minutes. The total is auto-summed and displayed as "Total Labor Time" in the Labor Settings card (combined with any post-processing minutes). It is then multiplied by your unified labour rate.

Formula: (Total Prep Minutes + Total Post-Processing Minutes) ÷ 60 × Labor Rate ($/hr)

Note: There is one shared Labour Rate for all hands-on work (default $20/hr). Adjust it in the "Labor Settings" card. See Basic Inputs for details.

Model Prep (min)

What Is Model Prep?

Time spent preparing the 3D model file before it's ready to slice. This can range from a quick inspection to major mesh repairs.

Common Tasks:
• Importing and inspecting model files
• Checking for errors (non-manifold geometry, holes)
• Repairing mesh issues
• Scaling to correct dimensions
• Orienting for optimal printing
• Adding drainage holes or manual supports
• Separating parts for multi-piece prints
• Hollowing solid models

Typical Time Estimates

Clean, print-ready file0–5 min
Minor adjustments (scale, orient)5–15 min
Mesh repairs and optimisation15–30 min
Extensive repairs or modifications30–120+ min

Note: Client-provided files often require more prep time than professionally designed models.

Slicing (min)

What Is Slicing?

Configuring print settings in your slicer software and generating the G-code for the printer.

Tasks Involved:
• Selecting print profile (quality, speed)
• Setting layer height and infill
• Configuring support structures
• Adjusting temperatures and speeds
• Previewing and checking the toolpath for issues
• Running the slice and reviewing estimates

Typical Time Estimates

Standard profile, no supports3–5 min
Custom settings with supports5–15 min
Complex part requiring optimisation15–30 min
Multi-material or experimental settings30–60+ min

Tip: Testing new materials or complex geometries often requires multiple slicing attempts — factor that extra time in.

Material Change (min)

What Is Material Change?

Time spent swapping filament when changing materials or colours between prints.

Process Includes:
• Unloading current filament
• Loading new filament
• Purging until clean (colour change)
• Temperature adjustments if needed
• Verifying flow and quality
• Cleaning nozzle if required

Typical Time Estimates

Same material, different colour3–5 min
Different material type5–10 min
Specialty material (needs purge)10–15 min

Important: Changing from dark to light colours may require extensive purging to avoid contamination.

Transfer & Start (min)

What Is Transfer & Start?

The final steps to get your print started and verify it begins correctly.

Tasks Included:
• Transferring G-code to SD card or over the network
• Preparing the print bed (levelling, cleaning)
• Applying adhesion aids (glue, tape, etc.)
• Starting the print and monitoring the first layer
• Making initial adjustments if needed

Typical Time Estimates

Network transfer, clean bed3–5 min
SD card, bed prep needed5–10 min
Difficult material (adhesion aids)10–15 min

Best Practice: Always wait to verify the first layer is adhering properly before walking away.

Example Calculation

Preparation Minutes:
Model Prep:15 min
Slicing:10 min
Material Change:5 min
Transfer & Start:6 min
Total Prep Time:36 min
Cost (using unified labour rate):
Labour Rate:$20/hr
Formula:36 min ÷ 60 × $20
Labour Cost (prep portion):$12.00

Best Practices

Track File Complexity

Client-provided files usually need more prep. Build extra time into quotes for uncertain file quality.

Consider the Learning Curve

New materials or techniques take longer. Charge appropriately for experimental first-time setups.

Value Your Expertise

Preparation requires technical knowledge. Don't undercharge for skilled work like mesh repair or print optimisation.

Bundle Related Tasks

If you're changing material anyway, include that time. Don't forget the small tasks that add up.

Related Articles

Basic Inputs

Printer, filament, and print parameters

Post-Processing

Finishing work and labour costs