How do I avoid partial patterns at edges?

Use the adjusted pattern size from this calculator, which divides the surface evenly. Alternatively, add a border frame around the pattern area to hide any partial repeats at the edges.

What spacing works best between pattern elements?

For FDM printing, minimum 1-2mm spacing ensures clean separation. For fine detail, use at least 2x your nozzle diameter. Too-small spacing may cause elements to merge during printing.

What is a brick pattern arrangement?

A brick pattern offsets every other row by half the pattern width, like bricks in a wall. This creates a more organic, less rigid-looking pattern than a simple grid while still being regular and predictable.

Can I use patterns on curved surfaces?

Yes, but the pattern will distort on curves. For gentle curves, the distortion is minimal. For tight curves, you may need to project the pattern onto the surface in your CAD software to maintain even spacing.

3DPrintCalcs

Pattern Repeat Calculator — Spacing & Repeat Counts

Work out pattern spacing and repeat counts for decorative surfaces.

Surface Width

Surface Height

Pattern Width

Pattern Height

Spacing

Gap between pattern elements

Arrangement

How We Calculate This

Pattern Repeat Formulas

Repeats per row = Surface width / (Pattern width + Spacing)
Repeats per column = Surface height / (Pattern height + Spacing)
Total repeats = Repeats per row x Repeats per column
Adjusted size = (Surface dimension / Repeats) - Spacing
Coverage = (Total repeats x Pattern area / Surface area) x 100

The adjusted pattern size option resizes the pattern slightly so that an exact whole number of repeats fills the surface with no partial patterns at the edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify settings with test prints before committing to final prints.