A simulation of the electrophoretic deposition process is presented, which allows one to predict the yield of deposition as a function of time for different values of the electrical properties of the liquid and the powders used. It is shown that with special precautions, conditions can be defined where the resistance of the deposit will limit its thickness. Under most conditions however, particularly if a liquid with reasonable electrical conductivity is used, the resistance of the deposit should not limit its growth. Other issues which are of importance in the shaping of free standing objects are also discussed, in particular the electrode shape and electric field distribution, separation of the deposit from the electrode and drying of the object. (C) 2004 Kluwer Academic Publishers.