Frequently asked questions
Start Here
1. What am I buying on this website?
Digital files and, in most cases (but not all cases), build guides to 3D print and build your own RC car or RC car components. This is a hands-on build, not a ready-to-run product.
2. What do I get after purchase?
Downloadable digital files in STL or 3MF format, a bill of materials with shopping links, and, in most cases, step-by-step visual build guides.
3. Are there other costs to build a digital file I purchase?
Yes. While we try to minimize your reliance on non-3D printable parts and avoid expensive or sophisticated tools, you still need some basic tools and to purchase filaments, glue, fasteners, and some electronics.
4. Is this beginner-friendly?
Most of our projects are beginner friendly, and some are hobbyist level. If you’re comfortable with basic 3D printing and following instructions, you’ll be fine making most of them.
5. How long does a build take?
Printing usually takes longer than assembly. Some projects can be finished as quickly as a few hours, others can take a few days.
6. Is this more about building or driving?
Both — the building experience is a big part of the value. But we also ensure the driving and performance of our cars feel like a high-end off-the-shelf RC car and not a toy.
7. Are these digital files a good gift to give to a friend or a loved one?
Yes — if you know someone who has a 3D printer and loves building stuff or has a passion for cars, they’ll enjoy these. Please note that you (or the gift receiver) still need to separately purchase some materials and tools to build the project.
Support & Customer Service
8. Are build guides included?
Yes — in most cases with step-by-step written instructions. We encourage you to check them out for free before you make a purchase.
9. Are there video tutorials?
Our YouTube videos give an overview of the assembly process, but we’ve learned that step-by-step build guides are the best and easiest way to help you build.
10. Do you offer customer support?
Yes — we’re a very small team so it can take some time to respond, but you can always write to us at info@curvlab.com. We do prioritize responding to paying customers who can’t find their answers in the build guide.
11. Is there a support community?
Yes — we encourage you to join our Facebook page and engage with our community.
12. Do you offer refunds on digital files?
No — all sales are final. You can review each project’s requirements in the build guide for free before purchasing.
If you’re not reasonably satisfied with your purchase, reach out and we’ll do our best to find a solution.
13. Will I get updates if the design improves?
Yes — we’ll email previous customers a new download link if we update or improve a design or fix an issue. This does not include new features added to a previous design.
14. Do you take feedback or feature requests?
Yes — we highly encourage you to comment on our social media posts so we can capture feedback relevant to each project.
3D Printing
15. What printers work?
Most standard FDM 3D printers.
16. What bed size do I need?
Each project lists its minimum bed size. We mostly support 180×180×180 printers.
17. What materials should I use?
PLA is recommended for most aesthetic parts like body panels and details.
PETG is our choice for structural and mechanical parts.
18. Are parts optimized for printability?
Yes — we aim to reduce preparation time and make parts as quick as possible to print. We also suggest part orientations to increase efficiency and reduce failed prints.
19. Do the parts need support?
Most of them don’t — our designs are optimized to be printed with minimum to no support.
20. Are slicer profiles or print settings included?
Yes — we use file names and a reference table to give print setting guidance for each part.
21. How long does printing take?
Usually several hours of printing.
Assembly
22. What tools do I need?
Basic hand tools like hex keys, screwdrivers, a utility knife, a soldering iron, etc. Nothing fancy!
23. How precise does the assembly need to be?
Careful, but forgiving. Reprints and adjustments are normal — if you make a mistake, just re-print the part and you’re back on track.
24. Can I re-print parts?
Yes — that’s part of the value.
25. Can it be taken apart later?
Yes, most designs are serviceable and modifiable.
26. Do I have to paint the body parts?
No — you can skip painting and use a silk, matte, or gloss PLA in a color of your choice for a similar effect with less effort. We recommend painting if you want a more realistic display car with shiny surfaces.
Hardware & Electronics
27. What non-printed parts are needed?
Standard fasteners, bearings, and RC electronics.
28. Are standard RC electronics used?
Yes — we design based on the most common and easily available parts on the market.
29. Is a BOM included?
Yes, with quantities and specs.
30. Where do people buy parts?
Common online retailers or local hobby shops. We also provide shopping links that work in most markets.
31. Are affiliate links used?
Yes — using those links is one of the ways you can support us to bring new projects to you in the future.
32. Can I use parts I already own?
Often yes, as long as specs are similar.
Intellectual Property
33. Can I share or resell the files?
No — files are for personal use only.
34. What happens if files get leaked?
We kindly ask you to inform us if you notice our files being sold, redistributed, or shared elsewhere. You can recognize our files by the Curv Lab logo engraved in the parts.
35. Can I sell printed versions of the parts or cars?
Unfortunately no.