Frequently Asked Questions

About Our Craftsmanship

What makes your products different from mass-produced décor?
Our pieces are 3D printed to order in the UK, then inspected and packed by an independent maker. Each design takes time to produce, and small variations in the printed finish give every piece its own character.

Why does 3D-printed décor cost more than some high-street items?
Each piece is built layer by layer rather than mass-produced. Some designs take many hours to print, followed by inspection and finishing. The price reflects that production time, the materials and the design.

What materials do you use?
Materials vary by product. We use PLA for many decorative pieces; it can capture fine detail and is available in a range of finishes. We use PETG for some lamp bases because it offers better heat resistance than PLA. Neither material is heatproof, so keep 3D-printed items away from excessive heat. Please check the individual product listing for material details, or contact us if you’d like more information.

Will my item look exactly like the photos?
We aim to show each product’s colour, shape and texture accurately, although colours can look different on different screens. Because pieces are printed to order, minor surface variations or visible layer lines may occur. Textures also differ between designs; for example, some have a fine, softly fuzzy printed finish rather than a smooth surface. If your item arrives damaged or is not as described, please contact us.

Custom Lithophanes

How do personalised lithophane orders work?
Our curved, freestanding 12 × 12 cm panel is made from your own physical 35mm slide or photographic negative. We do not accept digital photo uploads for this product.

After ordering, contact us for mailing details and packing guidance before posting your original. You arrange and pay for postage to us. Once your original arrives, please allow approximately 5–7 working days for us to make the panel. We return your original with the finished panel by Royal Mail Tracked 48. The time taken for your original to reach us and for the finished order to be delivered is additional.

A light source and display accessories are not included. You can browse the Lithophanes collection for product details.

Can I display my lithophane on a windowsill?
Daylight behind the panel can reveal its image, as shown in our photographs. The curved panel is freestanding, so a separate stand is not included. Avoid excessive heat and prolonged direct sunlight, which may affect a 3D-printed item over time.

Shipping & Custom Requests

Do you ship internationally?
Not at present. We deliver to UK addresses only using Royal Mail Tracked 48. Tracked UK delivery costs £4.99 per order. Please see our Shipping Policy for details.

How long will my order take to arrive?
Standard made-to-order items generally take approximately 5–7 working days to make and dispatch. For a personalised lithophane, allow approximately 5–7 working days after we receive your physical slide or negative. The time taken for your original to reach us is additional.

After dispatch, Royal Mail Tracked 48 typically takes 2–3 working days for UK delivery. These are estimates rather than guaranteed delivery dates. Please see our Shipping Policy for more detail.

Can I request a custom size or colour?
Some designs may be available in a different size or colour. Tell us which product you’re interested in and what you have in mind, and we’ll let you know what’s possible before you order. Contact us at sales@creative3dnovelties.com or 07495 412878.

What if my item arrives damaged?
Please contact us at sales@creative3dnovelties.com as soon as possible. Include your order number and, if available, clear photographs of the item and packaging. Prompt notice helps us investigate delivery damage, but contacting us later does not remove your statutory rights. We’ll review the issue and arrange an appropriate remedy in line with your consumer rights.