How to measure a part with calipers so it can be reproduced

[EDITABLE] Sample draft. Replace with your own text.

Before modelling a part it has to be measured properly. Calipers and clear photos avoid most failed test prints.

What to measure first

1. The outer dimensions: length, width and height.
2. Hole diameters and the distance between their centres.
3. Wall thicknesses.

Measure each dimension two or three times. If the readings vary, note the smallest and the largest.

Photos

Take one photo from the front and one from the side, with a ruler beside the part and no zoom. Photos guide the shape, but the caliper measurements win.

Clearances

A part that has to fit into another needs clearance. For FDM printing, 0.2 to 0.4 mm is usually enough, depending on the printer. [EDITABLE] Adjust to your own tests.