Embossed and Engraved Text / Small Feature Size

Theory

Surface text and fine features are among the most resolution-sensitive elements in 3D printing. Embossed (raised) features must protrude at least one layer height to survive post-processing; features shorter than one layer height are completely absorbed into the surrounding surface. Engraved (recessed) features must be wide enough that the slicer does not fill them: typically ≥0.4 mm wide for FDM, ≥0.2 mm for SLA, ≥0.5 mm for SLS. In DMLS, powder particle size (~20–40 µm) sets the practical feature resolution at ~0.1–0.2 mm for well-optimised machines.

Application

FDM embossed text: minimum 0.8 mm stroke width, 0.5 mm height. FDM engraved text: minimum 0.5 mm groove width, 0.5 mm depth. SLA: 0.2 mm emboss height, 0.2 mm groove width is achievable. SLS: 0.8 mm stroke, 0.5 mm depth for legible marks. Prefer sans-serif bold fonts: thin strokes of serif fonts print poorly in FDM. Horizontal orientation of text panels gives best legibility across all technologies.

Common mistakes

Logos and fine artwork imported from vector formats often contain line widths under 0.3 mm that disappear completely in FDM. Scale up the feature or switch to SLA. Engraved text on FDM vertical surfaces (perpendicular to layer direction) looks better than engraved text on horizontal surfaces, which show layer lines within the groove. In SLS, fine raised text can be obscured by surface porosity: engraved text is more readable.

Related terms: Minimum Wall Thickness, Minimum Hole Diameter