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How to 3D Print Patterned Name Tags Fast

Want a custom 3D printed name tag with a cool infill pattern showing through the letters? This PrintPal workflow lets you go from idea to sliced file in just a few minutes.

Step 1: Generate the Nameplate

Open PrintPal and head to the Tools menu, then select the Nameplate Generator. Type in your text and tweak the settings — font style, letter height, plate size, and border thickness. When it looks right, download the STL file.

Step 2: Add a Height Range Modifier in Your Slicer

Import the STL into your slicer (PrusaSlicer, OrcaSlicer, Bambu Studio, or Cura all support this). Right-click the model and add a Height Range Modifier. Drag the modifier box so it sits at the bottom of the text — this is the area where you want the pattern to show through.

Step 3: Zero Out the Top and Bottom Walls

Inside the modifier settings, set Top Shells and Bottom Shells to 0. This removes the solid layers above and below the text so light (or air) can pass through, letting the infill pattern become visible inside each letter.

Step 4: Pick an Infill Pattern or Color Change

Choose any infill pattern you like — gyroid, honeycomb, cubic, or lightning all look great. For an extra pop, add a filament change at that height so the pattern prints in a contrasting color.

Step 5: Slice and Print

Hit slice and preview the result. You should see the pattern clearly inside the letters. Print with PLA or PETG for best results, and use at least 3 walls on the rest of the model for strength.

Pro Tips

  • Use a 0.4mm nozzle with 0.2mm layer height for crisp letters.
  • Keep infill density between 15–25% — dense enough to show the pattern, light enough to print fast.
  • For wearable name tags, add small holes for lanyard clips in your CAD software before slicing.
  • Test with a draft mode first to verify the modifier height matches your text depth.

FAQ

Can I use any slicer? Yes — any slicer with height range modifiers works, including PrusaSlicer, OrcaSlicer, and SuperSlicer.

Will the letters be fragile? Slightly, since walls are removed. Print the plate flat on the bed and avoid snapping the letters.

Can I use multiple colors? Absolutely — add a manual filament change at the modifier height for a two-tone effect.

Full Transcript

Here is how to 3D print name tags with patterns in seconds. Go to Print Pal and click on tools, then find the nameplate generator. Now input your text and adjust the rest of the settings. Then download the STL and in your slicer, right click the model and add a height range modifier. Then just move it to the bottom of the text. And in this range settings, switch bottom and top walls to zero. And choose any infill pattern or choose a new color for it. Now slice to see the preview and try it out with the link in our bio.