3D printing jigs, fixtures, and manufacturing aids is one of the most practical uses of additive manufacturing. While prototypes get most of the attention, many manufacturers save the most time and money by printing the tools that help them build, assemble, and inspect their products. Our 3D printing studio in Los Angeles produces custom shop-floor tools for manufacturers, assemblers, and small production teams.
What Are Jigs and Fixtures?
- Jigs guide a tool or process, such as a drilling guide that places holes in the right spot every time.
- Fixtures hold a part securely in position during machining, assembly, gluing, or inspection.
- Manufacturing aids include alignment tools, gauges, masking tools, tool holders, cable routing guides, and protective covers.
Traditionally these were machined from aluminum or built from wood and scrap. 3D printing makes them faster, lighter, and easy to customize.
Why 3D Print Shop-Floor Tools?
Speed
A printed fixture can be designed and produced in days rather than waiting weeks for machined tooling.
Lower cost
Printed tools often cost a fraction of machined equivalents, especially for complex shapes.
Custom fit
Fixtures can be shaped to match the exact contour of your part, including organic or irregular shapes, by designing directly from the part CAD or a 3D scan.
Lighter and more ergonomic
Lighter tools reduce operator fatigue, and handles and grips can be designed for comfort.
Easy to replace or improve
If a fixture wears out or the product changes, the file can be adjusted and reprinted quickly.
Common Examples
- Assembly nests that hold parts in the correct orientation
- Drill and cutting guides
- Go/no-go gauges and inspection fixtures
- Gluing and clamping fixtures
- Soft jaws for vises and CNC workholding
- Masking fixtures for painting or plating
- Label and sticker placement guides
- Organizers and tool holders for workstations
Choosing Materials
- Nylon (SLS/MJF): durable, wear resistant, and great for most fixtures.
- Carbon fiber-reinforced nylon (FDM): stiff and strong for larger fixtures.
- PETG or ASA (FDM): economical and good for general aids.
- Tough resins (SLA): precise for small, detailed alignment tools.
- Flexible materials: to protect delicate surfaces or create soft contact points.
For high-wear contact points, we can design in metal inserts, bushings, or replaceable pads.
Design Tips
- Design around the part’s datums and critical features.
- Add clearance for printing tolerances, then fine-tune after the first test print.
- Use threaded inserts for bolts and clamps that will be reused.
- Label fixtures with part numbers or instructions directly in the print.
- Add cutouts to save material and give visibility to the part.
From Idea to Fixture
Send us the part CAD, a sketch of how you want it held, or the physical part for 3D scanning. We design the fixture, print a test version, and refine it with your team until it works on the line.
Improve Your Production Line in Los Angeles
eCadCam has more than 22 years of experience in CAD and 3D printing. Visit us at 4212 San Fernando Rd, Glendale, CA 91204, call 213.489.1173, or request a quote for your jigs and fixtures.