an apparatus and related method for forming a three - dimensional polymer based part including a die tool having a specified shape and size and exhibiting an exposed polymer adhering surface corresponding in configuration to a polymeric based part to be created . a volume holding bin supports a three - dimensional article including at least one exposed and pattern defining surface . a volume of a granulated polymer material is deposited into the bin and around the article . a sub - volume of the material adheres to and forms a hardened layer upon the exposed pattern defining surface , a corresponding part created having a specified thickness and matching configuration .