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How to make a replacement part from photos and measurements

By Partvo · Updated October 1, 2026

Partvo can use reference photos and written measurements to create a candidate 3D design for a broken household part. A photo helps explain shape; it does not establish scale, hidden features or a reliable fit. Measure the part and what it attaches to, then inspect and test the generated model before using it.

1. Photograph the broken part and its mating surface

Take a clear overall photo, front and side views, and close-ups of clips, holes or shafts. Photograph the object the replacement must fit, including an intact matching part if one exists. Put a ruler in a photo for context, but record critical dimensions separately with calipers where possible. Mark any surface hidden by a break or an assembled joint as unknown instead of asking the model to guess.

2. Record the measurements that determine fit

• Give the overall width, depth and height in millimetres, and say which face defines each direction.
• Measure mating features: hole diameters and centre spacing, clip thickness, slot width, shaft shape and insertion direction as applicable.
• Describe the load, temperature, moisture and repeated bending the part will see. These affect whether a material and print orientation are suitable.
• Label each value measured, estimated or unknown. If the original is broken or distorted, measure the mating object too.

A photo may show a latch shape, but it cannot establish the clearance needed for your printer, material and fit. Start with a small test piece around the mating feature when practical.

3. Write a brief that separates facts from guesses

I need a replacement for a broken indoor plastic latch. The attached photos show its shape and the shelf it clips onto. Overall size: [measured width × depth × height] mm. The shelf edge is [measured thickness] mm; the latch enters from [direction]. Keep these measured faces and openings. The broken tip shape is uncertain, so ask me before choosing it. I want a printable model and, if available for this design, a STEP file I can inspect in CAD. I will test fit before relying on it.

Replace every bracketed field with your own measurement; this is a writing template, not a documented customer repair or a promise that this latch can be generated. Confirm that the size selected in the Studio matches the dimensions in your brief before starting generation.

4. Inspect the output and revise one fit issue at a time

Upload your reference photos in the Partvo Studio, confirm the size and review the spending limit. When a model is ready, compare its overall dimensions and mating features with your notes. In chat, make revisions specific: “Keep the hole spacing; widen only the shelf slot by [measured change] mm.” Compare the new version with the previous one. Each generation or revision can use credits.

Download the formats shown for that validated design. STL is a mesh commonly used by slicers; STEP can be opened and edited in CAD when available, but it may not contain the original feature history. Neither file proves that the replacement fits. See STL versus STEP for format checks.

5. Test fit before putting the part to work

1. Open the exact downloaded version in CAD or a slicer. Verify units, outside dimensions and critical openings.
2. Check wall thickness, print orientation, supports and the material against the actual use conditions.
3. Print a small fit coupon or low-risk prototype where practical, then measure and test its mating feature.
4. Record what did not fit, revise the specific dimension and repeat the check on the new version.

Do not rely on an AI-generated replacement for a safety-critical, load-bearing or high-temperature use without appropriate professional design and physical validation. Partvo does not currently offer a completed managed print-and-ship order; you must arrange and verify your own fabrication.

What will this cost?

New subscribers receive 10 million design credits for $3 plus applicable tax in the first month (70% off); the plan renews at $10/month until canceled. Unused monthly credits expire at renewal. Extra-use top-ups start at $5 and keep their balance across months. Credits measure usage, not a guaranteed number of models or revisions. Consumed AI usage can be charged even when an attempt does not produce a usable model. Check the current billing page and credit and refund policy before purchase.

For more measurement questions, use the design brief checklist. Partvo's live capabilities show the current design service status.