Support structures are the unsung heroes of many 3D prints — but if you’ve ever spent 20 minutes peeling away fused support towers or sanding scars off your model, you know: not all supports are created equal.

Let’s break down the three most common types and when to use each: Grid, Tree, and Custom.

Grid Supports: The Classic Default

Most slicers default to grid-style supports — vertical towers built in stacked lines beneath overhangs.

Pros:

• Reliable and easy to generate
• Great for boxy shapes and symmetrical overhangs
• Works with all materials and printers

Cons:

• Can be hard to remove cleanly
• Uses a lot of filament
• May scar detailed surfaces

When to use:
Grid supports are best for simple geometry or parts where surface finish doesn’t matter much, like brackets, functional prints, or hidden features.

Tree Supports: Smarter, Not Harder

Tree supports are an organic-style alternative — instead of a wall, they branch out and only touch the model where absolutely necessary.

Pros:

• Saves filament
• Easier to remove
• Less likely to damage the print
• Better for curved and detailed surfaces

Cons:

• Slower to slice
• May fail if branches are too thin
• Not ideal for flat-bottomed overhangs

When to use:
Tree supports are great for miniatures, figurines, or curved models where you want minimal scarring and easier cleanup.

Custom Supports: Take Full Control

Want supports only where you need them? Custom supports let you manually place or block support regions inside your slicer.

Pros:

• Full control over placement
• Prevents unnecessary material waste
• Reduces cleanup and improves surface quality

Cons:

• Requires more setup time
• Not as beginner-friendly
• Takes a good understanding of model geometry

When to use:
Custom supports are ideal for complex or client-facing prints where aesthetics matter, or when you want to avoid supports on visible areas like faces, logos, or text.

Tips for Support Success

• Use an interface layer to make removal easier
• Try tree supports first for detailed models
• Know your printer’s overhang limit — most handle 45 degrees just fine
• Lower your support density (10 to 15 percent is usually enough)
• Use support enforcers only where absolutely necessary

Not sure which support strategy is right for your model?
I can help you tune your slicer settings or walk you through a better support setup. Reach out anytime for personalized guidance.