Mastering 3D Print Supports: When to Use Them—and When You Don’t Have To

One of the first hurdles for any maker is understanding 3D print supports—those temporary structures that help your print succeed when gravity isn't on your side. Knowing when to use supports in 3D printing and when you can skip them can save time, materials, and cleanup frustration.

So, what exactly are support structures in 3D printing? They're additional printed material that provides stability for overhangs—sections of your model that extend out and would otherwise droop or fail. Most slicers will automatically generate them when needed, but with a bit of know-how, you can reduce or even eliminate them.

Start by understanding your 3D printer support angles. Generally, anything steeper than 45° may require support. But with careful 3D print support orientation, you can rotate your model to reduce the need for supports entirely. This is a key part of 3D printing without supports and a valuable trick in your toolbox.

If you do need supports, choosing the best 3D print support settings is essential. Whether you're using breakaway supports or dissolvable ones, ensure your settings are dialed in. Tree supports—branch-like structures—are gaining popularity for being easier to remove and using less material compared to standard block supports. When choosing between tree supports and regular supports, tree supports often win due to their clean results.

Once printing is complete, the next step is to remove the 3D print supports without damaging your model. Start with your hands, then move to support removal tools like flush cutters, needle-nose pliers, or a deburring tool for stubborn bits. For clean support removal in 3D printing, patience and good tools make all the difference.

Want to go a step further? Learn to design your 3D print to minimize the need for supports. Adding chamfers, bridging small gaps, or breaking your model into parts can make your prints cleaner and faster.

Support structures don't have to be a pain. Learn them, tweak your 3D print support material, and print smarter, not harder.