For those of you lucky enough to own a desktop 3D printer, there is no shortage of websites to download STL files from.
The software has a long list of features including construction aids, editing, layer technique, tool administration, lines, cubic splines and complex pre-defined elements. The software has integrated 'Relief' module to convert 2D or.stl file into 3D file. Posted November 6, 2016 The BEST settings for.stl file ( solidworks ) If you are wanting a high quality (high poly count) model then just select Fine. This is what I always use. It's a great software to get started with 3D sculpting and to make your first step in STL files editing with this kind of tool. Unlike professionals sculpting software like ZBrush, it only includes the basic tools you need to edit and repair your STL files. Ultimaker Cura is a friendly 3D slicer software. It is one of the easiest apps to use for slicing. In fact, novices can use this right away. In addition, it accepts different formats of files including STL, OBJ or 3MF file. You have to be familiar with your 3D printer when setting it up for Cura.
Most of us probably get our 3D printing models from the market leaders, such as Thingiverse or YouMagine.
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There are however a large number of small STL file websites, with some very high quality 3D printing models.
The problem is, these niche players can be difficult to find.
Well I have compiled a comprehensive list of STL file websites, to try and put some of these lesser known places on the map.
Take a quick look, I guarantee you'll find some hidden gems.
STL File Website 1 – Thingiverse
I can't imagine there are many 3D printer owners who haven't heard of Thingiverse.
However, no list of STL file websites would be complete without this titan.
With over 2 million members, one million 3D printing models and 200 million downloads to date.
This is probably already your go to place for free STL files.
STL File Website 2 – My Mini Factory
Another goliath in the STL file world.
My Mini Factory has gone to the trouble of testing all of its 3D printing models.
Given the cost of filament, it's very useful knowing your print will be successful.
It also has plenty of competitions with some pretty decent prizes.
STL File Website 3 – Pinshape
Flirting with closure this year, Pinshape is my favourite STL file website.
The quality of its 3D printing models, just seems to be that bit higher.
This may well be because designers can charge for their creations.
Giving credence to the adage, 'you get what you pay for'.
STL File Website 4 – YouMagine
Focus list 1 0 110. YouMagine is to Ultimaker what Thingiverse is to Makerbot.
Far fewer STL files but far less rubbish too.
You get the sense that people are actually printing these designs before uploading them.
Smart utility 3 0 2 ubkg download free. And that's a good thing.
STL File Website 5 – LayerTrove
A shameless plug I know, but I had to put LayerTrove on the list.
Are our 3D printing models any good? No.
Our 3D printing models are frickin awesome!
Professionally designed and optimised for desktop 3D printing.
Good value too, when you consider the plastic you'll save.
STL File Website 6 – Cults3D
My favourite of the underdogs, Cults3D has a nice little collection of STL files.
Founded in France but written in English. A little bit like Daft Punk.
Most of its 3D printing models are free, and there are some excellent premium options too.
STL File Website 7 – 3DShook
I must confess, I am not actually a member of this STL file website.
Although I do admire what they are trying to create.
A large collection of tried and tested 3D printing models.
Coupled with a Netflix style subscription setup. You can also buy models individually.
Hats off to them, I hope they succeed.
STL File Website 8 – NASA
A fairly unassuming website which contains some hidden gems.
If you are interested in the space program, then there are some great 3D printing models here for you.
The Curiosity Rover is especially cool.
For some more NASA related 3D printing awesomeness, take a look at LayerTrove's Space Exploration collection.
STL File Website 9 – Dremel 3D Idea Builder
Another 3D printer company with a user created library of free 3D printing models.
Actually some really great STL files here, and all presented in a user friendly way.
Collaborations with Autodesk 123D and My Mini Factory have also strengthened its offering.
STL File Website 10 – Gambody
Some very high quality 3D printing models, created especially for 3D printing here.
This is a premium website, but effort has been put into optimising these STL files for printing.
It's worth you visiting just to see the detail of these organic models.
Very impressive.
STL File Website 11 – New Matter
Another in house offering from a desktop 3D printer company.
A small collection of STL files but really fun and nicely curated.
Go and take a look, you'll definitely find some great 3D printing models.
STL File Website 12 – Zortrax
A 3D printing model library to complement Zortrax's range of desktop 3D printers.
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Some excellent models here. Especially in the engineering category.
Just take a look at the modular arm in the image above.
Zortrax's desktop 3D printers look very interesting too.
STL File Website 13 – TinkerCAD
As you may be aware, TinkerCAD is an online 3D design app, used by a number of people with desktop 3D printers.
It's a really fun piece of software, and I highly recommend you give it a go.
What makes it especially great, is you can add your creations to its online gallery, for anyone to download and print.
It's gallery contains loads of fun 3D printing models, which are definitely worth looking at.
Perhaps you might even design and add one of your own.
STL File Website 14 – Threeding
A Pinshape style marketplace with free and premium content.
The collection is pretty small but some reasonable 3D printing models are available.
Interestingly, Threeding is looking for outside investment and the contact email is Shapeways.
There must be some connection here.
STL File Website 15 – 3DAGOGO
A niche player, focusing on proven to print STL files.
Not the largest collection of 3D printing models but definitely worth a look.
STL File Website 16 – CGTrader
Primarily a website for 3D renders, CGTrader now has a 3D printing models section.
This houses a fairly large collection of STL files, many of which are free.
There are some reasonable models, and 3D printing legend Daniel Noree even has a profile here.
I suspect many of the models are just 3D renders converted to STL format however.
STL File Website 17 – Instructables
Instructables is a place for people to share their weird and wonderful creations.
With over 100,000 projects, and instructions on how to make them all.
This really is a Mecca for makers.
Most of the projects are not 3D printing models, however there is a growing collection of STL files.
It's also an excellent place for some inspiration.
STL File Website 18 – AutoDesk 123D
AutoDesk 123D is a suite of apps giving you the power to design, create and share.
It has a large library of 3D models in STL file format.
Most of these I wouldn't class as 3D printing models but there are some hidden gems.
STL File Website 19 – Yeggi
Not a traditional STL file website but a 3D printing model search engine.
The first and the biggest with over 750,000 unique visitors per month.
Gives you an idea of how popular 3D printing is becoming!
Not the prettiest user interface, but a convenient way for you to find great 3D printing models.
STL File Website 20 – The Forge
Another website with professionally created 3D printing models, designed for desktop 3D printers.
This time exclusively by Jim Rodda, the man who brought you the Seej tabletop war game.
All of the STL files are free but you can show Jim your appreciation by making a contribution.
STL File Website 21 – Freedees
Freedees has a large collection of free 3D printing models, and also a nice blog.
The website is well laid out and really nice to use.
There are also some great STL files here too.
My only concern was the dummy text on its about page. Must be a work in progress.
STL File Website 22 – GrabCad
Owned by Stratasys, the parent company of Thingiverse, GrabCad is a free library with over 1.4 million CAD files.
There is some new GrabCad print software in Beta, which is a strong signal it wants to do more in this space.
The search bar has a 3D printing model category, and there are some pretty cool STL files to be found.
STL File Website 23 – STL Finder
Another 3D printing model search engine.
Nowhere near as big as Yeggi, but a nicer user interface.
STL File Website 24 – Redpah
Based in Texas, Redpah is another STL file marketplace.
It has a mixture of free and premium 3D printing models.
Some nice original content here too.
The website has a simple and clear layout, making the search for your next print that bit easier.
STL File Website 25 – Trinpy
Trinpy has made a real effort to focus on STL files that will actually print.
This is a breath of fresh air in a largely unchecked market.
Think of how much filament has been wasted on failed prints!
I especially like its monster truck 3D printing model.
STL File Website 26 – Sketchfab
Really a website for 3D renders, Sketchfab does have a 3D printing models section.
Some nice looking STL files but most do not look suitable for desktop 3D printing.
A nice place for getting ideas though.
STL File Website 27 – Yobi3D
Not an STL file website but a 3D printing model search engine.
Looks and feels a lot like Google. Which is nice and familiar.
It has a great 3D viewer, enabling you to examine each model without going to the host website.
STL File Website 28 – 3DExport
Founded in 2004, 3DExport is a marketplace for buying and selling 3D models.
Like many of these websites, it has branched out into 3D printing models.
There is a 3D printing models area of the website and you can search for STL files.
Most of the models seem to be jewellery, which isn't ideal for desktop 3D printing.
But there are some 3D printable things available.
STL File Website 29 – STL Hive
STL Hive focuses on professionally created 3D printing models, specifically designed for desktop 3D printing.
Most of the STL files are premium and there is a radio controlled theme on this website.
The quantity of models is low but the quality is high.
If you are interested in RC stuff, then STL Hive is worth a look.
STL File Website 30 – Libre 3D
RepRap founder Adrian Bowyer sits on the board of this STL file website.
Adhering to all the principals of open source, Libre 3D feels a lot like a small Thingiverse.
Not the largest collection of 3D printing models but with Adrian's guidance, I am sure it will grow quickly.
STL File Website 31 – Rinkak
Japan based but with an English version of the website, Rinkak focuses on premium 3D printing models.
Some pretty cool STL files but nothing you won't find on Pinshape.
Nice user interface too.
STL File Website 32 – Rascomras
Still in Beta, Rascomras has a small collection of STL files.
This is one largely for the Spanish speaking market.
Not many original 3D printing models here, and the user interface needs work.
STL File Website 33 – Repables
Repables is a very simple and clean STL file repository.
There are over 500 3D printing models here, however they aren't even grouped into categories.
You can use the search bar, or just filter through until you see something interesting.
Very basic but actually quite nice to look around.
Some interesting models too.
STL File Website 34 – TurboSquid
TurboSquid is really about 3D models for game developers and visual effects studios, rather than 3D printing models.
You can however search for 'printing' and sort by STL files.
The results will show some models suitable for 3D printing.
Despite being a premium website, a number of the 3D printing models are free too.
STL File Website 35 – Shapetizer
Still in Beta, Shapetizer is targeting the Chinese 3D printing market.
It also seems to have a focus on jewellery, something which doesn't work particularly well with desktop 3D printers.
There are some 3D printing models out with this niche however, including some toy guns. Tut-tut!
STL File Website 36 – 3D Warehouse
Containing millions of models created in SketchUp, 3D Warehouse does have an architecture theme going on.
You can sort by 3D printing models in its advanced search, but I struggled to find anything interesting.
Perhaps you can find STL files worth printing here.
STL File Website 37 – 3D File Market
Similar to My Mini Factory, 3D File Market verifies that its STL files will actually print.
My Mini Factory actually completes a test print, whereas 3D File Market just insists on photographic proof.
The website is very slow to load. It probably needs a host upgrade.
If you are patient though, there are some nice STL files here.
STL File Website 38 – MakerShop
MakerShop does focus on 3D printing models, and there are enough STL files here to warrant a look around.
Plenty to choose from but nothing I haven't seen on Thingiverse.
STL File Website 39 – ShapeKing
Not the prettiest user interface and a fairly small quantity of STL files.
Some good resources though with regards to 3D printers, 3D scanners and 3D software.
STL File Website 40 – Design Share Make
LayerTrove's sister website, has over 50 free STL files all carefully optimised for desktop 3D printing.
In addition to this, there is a collection of premium 3D printing models all developed by professional 3D artists.
We are in the process of migrating everything over to LayerTrove, but the website is still live, so I thought it was worth a mention.
STL File Websites – Conclusion
As you can see, there is no shortage of STL file websites to get your 3D printing models from.
The most well known places, such as Thingiverse, are of course excellent websites to visit.
Some of these niche players though, have so much to offer, and are definitely worth a visit.
Your exploration will be rewarded with some unique and awesome 3D printing models.
Please leave me a comment below, and let me know if this post was useful.
Are there any STL file websites you think should be on my list?
At some point any 3D printing hobbyist will wonder how to edit STL files. Sometimes, the pre-downloaded STL file or your own model is good enough. In other cases, you would need to edit or repair it. There are STL editors that help users with that.
There are two types of programs that allow users to edit STL files:
- CAD (Computer Aided Design) software. These programs aim for covering engineering and construction modeling purposes, providing precise measurements and solid modeling tools. They weren't originally developed with 3D printing in mind, although they are pretty useful for this workflow. They are not the best choice for fully fledged STL editing due to some differences in the way they represent some shapes. This article will cover some CAD programs, such as Blender, FreeCAD, SketchUp.
- Mesh editing tools. These are excellent for editing STL files, because they're developed for working with modeling and objects represented by 2D surfaces that have no filling (these objects can't be printed, although there's quite a few ways they can be solidified).
Free STL editors
3D Crafter
3D Crafter (formerly known as 3D Canvas) is a free 3D editing and animation software available only for Windows. The intuitive interface and simple controls are worth mentioning, as well as extensive animation abilities. The program supports importing and exporting a wide variety of file formats, including STL. The built-in tools make 3D Crafter a good choice for easy editing. The main shortcoming is the lack of the native ability to export STL in the free version, but you can get the Pro one rather cheaply or save files in other formats.
How to edit STL files in 3D Crafter
Opening STL files
Go to File > Import > StereoLithography (stl) and choose the object you want to import.
Editing STL files
1. Press the wheel of your mouse and move the mouse to change the view. You can also use the Orbit button in the toolbar above the model view. The Pan and Zoom buttons help as well. But if you have a mouse available, using it would be faster and more comfortable.
2. Select your part or the whole object using mouse and either right-click on the selected parts or on the rectangle in the lower-right corner of the program. It will bring the list of the options to manipulate and edit your object.
3. The left toolbar has many other tools as well.
4. You can get more tools available by changing the difficulty level in the upper toolbar from Novice tools to Intermediate or Pro Tools.
5. If you still struggle, the program has a short built-in tutorial that appears on the right when using it for the first time.
Blender
Blender is a free and open-source cross-platform 3D editing software. It's probably the most popular free 3D program on the market. It's used for creation, editing and animation of 3D models in various industries – from video game development to landscape design and construction. STL files can be easily imported and prepared, and there are many algorithms that help working with surfaces.
The program isn't easy to use, requires a learning curve and the amount of features may overwhelm new users. Blender requires a powerful PC for working with complex models but same can be said about many other CAD programs. Blender also wasn't developed with 3D printing in mind, but it's still possible to edit and repair STL files in the software.
How to edit and repair STL files in Blender
Opening STL files
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1. After opening Blender there's usually a default cube present. You can delete it by placing the mouse cursor above it and pressing the 'Del' button.
2. Go to File > Import > STL, choose a file and import it.
Editing STL files
1. Switch to Edit mode. The edges of your model will now be visible.
2. Hitting Alt+L selects all elements. It will allow you to select individual points, planes and edges by pressing RMB.
3. Alt+J converts triangles into rectangles.
4. Searching for Subdivide or Un-Subdivide grants the ability to change the number of tiles.
5.Selection options Vertexes, Edge or Face select allows you to manipulate the parts of the model
6. You can search for different shapes such as Cube or Sphere to add them the model
7. You can extrude the area by using the Extrude command
8. The Boolean command can be used to cut or merge forms.
Repairing STL
1. Using the 3D Print Toolbox: Edit > Preferences > Add-Ons > Mesh: 3D Print Toolbox. It's now available in the left sidebar.
2. 3D Print Toolbox can help you fixing the issues with your STL files, the ones that prevent it from printing correctly. Most important issues are:
Overhangs requiring adding support structure.
Wall-thickness shows the thinnest walls that would be problematic to print.
Manifolds.
3. Pressing Check All checks for every issues. The list of errors is located at the bottom of the toolbox.
4. Pressing Isolated repairs edges and vertices.
5. The Make Manifold button creates mesh manifold.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export > Stl to export your model.
Here's one of the tutorials that show how to fix mesh issues in Blender:
FreeCAD
FreeCAD is a free and open-source (LGPLv2+) cross-platform CAD software. It supports full parametric modeling as well as several 2D tools handy for drafting purposes. There are various add-ons that extends the software's abilities.
FreeCAD is not the best solution for STL editing and repairing but it's still pretty functional. Among its shortcomings are the lack of a full move-around 3D view and the problems with intercepting structures.
How to edit and repair STL files in FreeCAD
Opening STL files
1. Open the program and go to File > New.
2. Click File > Import and choose the STL file. Other formats such as OBJ and AST are also supported. FreeCAD can open other mesh formats such as OBJ and AST as well.
3. Change the workbench to Part.
4. Select the model you just imported in the Model window.
5. Go to Part > Create shape from mesh. The object will be split into several triangles. The precision of the process can be changed, but 0.10 will be good enough for the majority of objects.
6. The mesh can now be deleted or hidden.
7. Click Advanced utility and select Solid from shell. Choose any object with triangles, click on it and then click on the Create button. Click Close. The object is now solidified.
8. The old shape can now be deleted and hidden. Your solid object is ready for editing.
Editing STL files
1. Change the workbench to Part Design.
2. Choose where you want to add or remove material, click on the surface so it's highlighted.
3. Click Create Sketch.
4. Create a shape you want to manipulate using the tools for drawing.
5. Click Close. Double-click on the model tree if you want to edit your sketch.
6. You can use the Pad for extrusion. And the tool called Pocket allows you to cut.
Repairing STL
1. Switch workbench to Mesh Design.
2. Go to Meshes > Analyze > Evaluate & repair mesh.
3. You can choose any possible defect in the list and click the Analyze button.
Choosing the All above tests together window and clicking Analyze works like a 'select all' option and looks for all of the possible defects.
4. Click Repair.
Exporting STL
Select the last feature in the model tree. Then go to File > Export and choose Mesh formats.
Here's a good video (no commentary) that shows FreeCAD's editing abilities:
MeshLab
MeshLab is a free and open-source cross-platform STL editing and repairing software. It doesn't even have an option to create new objects but the program is a powerful editor. The meshes can be converted and merged and later inspected and repaired. MeshLabs supports working with point clouds and can import and export many different file types, including 3DS, OBJ, OFF and, of course, STL.
How to edit and repair STL files in MeshLab
Opening STL files
Go to File > Import Mesh and select your model.
Editing STL files
MeshLab can't create new objects but it has various editing tools, especially for merging.
Merging two models:
1. Load both models
2. Click on Show Layers. Select the models.
3. Select the object in the Layer menu and click on Manipulator Tools to manipulate it.
4. Pressing T uses the Transform option, R allows you to rotate the object and pressing S gives you the access to scaling options.
5. Rotating the view changes the axis you're working in. Use arrows and drag-and-drop functions to manipulate the objects.
6. When everything is where it should be, press RMB after selecting any part of the combined mesh and choose Flatten Visible Layers. Check the first three boxes and click on Apply.
How to delete a section:
1. Click on Select Face.
2. Click Delete the Current Selected Face and Vertices.
How to repair your object or search for holes:
1. If your model is manifold, click on Fill Hole.
2. A window will appear and show you all the holes. You can select the ones you want to fill, then click on Fill and then on Accept once they're highlighted.
Repairing STL
1. Go to Filters > Quality Measures and Computations > Compute Geometric Measures if you want to check if your object is manifold. A volume file or an error will appear in a window.
2. If it's not manifold (watertight), go to Filters > Cleaning and Repairing > Merge Close Vertices, and apply it.
Go to Filters > Cleaning and Repairing > Remove Duplicate Faces, click Apply.
Go to Filters > Cleaning and Repairing > Remove Duplicated Vertices.
3. Check the file again.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export Mesh.
This video shows how to repair STL file using MeshLab:
Meshmixer
Meshmixer is a free and open-source 3D printing software. It's available for MacOS and Windows and developed by Autodesk. Rich functionality allows for various ways to work with STL files – including editing and repairing (the older versions even used to have a built-in slicer tool). The developers call it a 'state-of-the-art software for working with triangle meshes'. And the amount of features seems to prove that – hollowing, support structure branching and other abilities are useful for editing your meshes.
How to edit and repair STL files in Meshmixer
Opening STL files
1. Click on Import and choose the model.
2. Go to Edit > Make solid to solidify your object. You can also make it hollow by choosing the 'Hollow' option
Editing STL files
1. The Select option will let you mark the parts of the object.
2. Pressing Del removes the elements you marked.
3. The Meshmix option will let you manipulate various forms. They can be combined by using the Sculpt tool. You can switch to using more complex forms. The objects can be easily drag-and-dropped and rotate by using colored arrows. more models by switching from basic forms to for example arms or legs. Drag and drop the object you want to insert. Use different colored arrows to rotate or move your model.
4. Clicking on Sculpt will let you extrude or smoothen different parts.
Repairing STL
1. In the sidebar, click on Print. It will show various tools for repairing and preparation for 3D printing.
2. Select your 3D Printer from the list. If yours is absent, you can add it manually by providing its specs.
3. Click on Repair Selected. This will automatically fix all of the issues in the mesh. You can also hollow it and adjust the minimum wall thickness.
4. Click Add Support 3d desktop software for windows 7. for making a support structure. Change the settings according your printer's requirements and click Generate Support. Then choose Done.
Free digital painting software windows 7. 5. Once everything is ready, click Send to Printer.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export and select the .Stl option.
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This tutorial demonstrates how you can fix STL with Meshmixer:
SculptGL
SculptGL is a free web-based 3D sculpting software. It's based on WebGL and is rather minimal, including only the necessary tools and features but still manages to be powerful enough. Obviously, it cannot be compared to much more extensive competitors such as Zbrush. But it's the best STL editor for those interested in 3D sculpting.
While it's great for editing, it lacks the ability to repair STL files and sometimes the finished result is non-manifold, which will require using repairing programs (such as those described in the article).
How to edit STL files in SculptGL
Opening STL files
1. Delete the default shape by clicking Scene > Clear Scene.
2. Go to File (import/export) > Add (obj, sgl, ply, stl) to open an STL file.
Editing STL files
1. Use the Radius slider in the Sculpting & Painting toolbar to control the size of the tool. The tools are used to define the key features of your model. Use the smaller ones for more precise editing.
2. Pressing the Symmetry button will help you to streamline the process by mirroring the changes you make in the other half of the mesh.
You can increase the resolution if you run into problems or need to work on smaller details. There are two different ways to achieve so.
Subdividing: go to Topology > Multiresolution > Subdivide.
Remeshing: go to Topology > Voxel Remeshing > Resolution, select the resolution and click the Remesh button.
Exporting STL
Go to File (import/export) > Save STL.
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There are however a large number of small STL file websites, with some very high quality 3D printing models.
The problem is, these niche players can be difficult to find.
Well I have compiled a comprehensive list of STL file websites, to try and put some of these lesser known places on the map.
Take a quick look, I guarantee you'll find some hidden gems.
STL File Website 1 – Thingiverse
I can't imagine there are many 3D printer owners who haven't heard of Thingiverse.
However, no list of STL file websites would be complete without this titan.
With over 2 million members, one million 3D printing models and 200 million downloads to date.
This is probably already your go to place for free STL files.
STL File Website 2 – My Mini Factory
Another goliath in the STL file world.
My Mini Factory has gone to the trouble of testing all of its 3D printing models.
Given the cost of filament, it's very useful knowing your print will be successful.
It also has plenty of competitions with some pretty decent prizes.
STL File Website 3 – Pinshape
Flirting with closure this year, Pinshape is my favourite STL file website.
The quality of its 3D printing models, just seems to be that bit higher.
This may well be because designers can charge for their creations.
Giving credence to the adage, 'you get what you pay for'.
STL File Website 4 – YouMagine
Focus list 1 0 110. YouMagine is to Ultimaker what Thingiverse is to Makerbot.
Far fewer STL files but far less rubbish too.
You get the sense that people are actually printing these designs before uploading them.
Smart utility 3 0 2 ubkg download free. And that's a good thing.
STL File Website 5 – LayerTrove
A shameless plug I know, but I had to put LayerTrove on the list.
Are our 3D printing models any good? No.
Our 3D printing models are frickin awesome!
Professionally designed and optimised for desktop 3D printing.
Good value too, when you consider the plastic you'll save.
STL File Website 6 – Cults3D
My favourite of the underdogs, Cults3D has a nice little collection of STL files.
Founded in France but written in English. A little bit like Daft Punk.
Most of its 3D printing models are free, and there are some excellent premium options too.
STL File Website 7 – 3DShook
I must confess, I am not actually a member of this STL file website.
Although I do admire what they are trying to create.
A large collection of tried and tested 3D printing models.
Coupled with a Netflix style subscription setup. You can also buy models individually.
Hats off to them, I hope they succeed.
STL File Website 8 – NASA
A fairly unassuming website which contains some hidden gems.
If you are interested in the space program, then there are some great 3D printing models here for you.
The Curiosity Rover is especially cool.
For some more NASA related 3D printing awesomeness, take a look at LayerTrove's Space Exploration collection.
STL File Website 9 – Dremel 3D Idea Builder
Another 3D printer company with a user created library of free 3D printing models.
Actually some really great STL files here, and all presented in a user friendly way.
Collaborations with Autodesk 123D and My Mini Factory have also strengthened its offering.
STL File Website 10 – Gambody
Some very high quality 3D printing models, created especially for 3D printing here.
This is a premium website, but effort has been put into optimising these STL files for printing.
It's worth you visiting just to see the detail of these organic models.
Very impressive.
STL File Website 11 – New Matter
Another in house offering from a desktop 3D printer company.
A small collection of STL files but really fun and nicely curated.
Go and take a look, you'll definitely find some great 3D printing models.
STL File Website 12 – Zortrax
A 3D printing model library to complement Zortrax's range of desktop 3D printers.
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Some excellent models here. Especially in the engineering category.
Just take a look at the modular arm in the image above.
Zortrax's desktop 3D printers look very interesting too.
STL File Website 13 – TinkerCAD
As you may be aware, TinkerCAD is an online 3D design app, used by a number of people with desktop 3D printers.
It's a really fun piece of software, and I highly recommend you give it a go.
What makes it especially great, is you can add your creations to its online gallery, for anyone to download and print.
It's gallery contains loads of fun 3D printing models, which are definitely worth looking at.
Perhaps you might even design and add one of your own.
STL File Website 14 – Threeding
A Pinshape style marketplace with free and premium content.
The collection is pretty small but some reasonable 3D printing models are available.
Interestingly, Threeding is looking for outside investment and the contact email is Shapeways.
There must be some connection here.
STL File Website 15 – 3DAGOGO
A niche player, focusing on proven to print STL files.
Not the largest collection of 3D printing models but definitely worth a look.
STL File Website 16 – CGTrader
Primarily a website for 3D renders, CGTrader now has a 3D printing models section.
This houses a fairly large collection of STL files, many of which are free.
There are some reasonable models, and 3D printing legend Daniel Noree even has a profile here.
I suspect many of the models are just 3D renders converted to STL format however.
STL File Website 17 – Instructables
Instructables is a place for people to share their weird and wonderful creations.
With over 100,000 projects, and instructions on how to make them all.
This really is a Mecca for makers.
Most of the projects are not 3D printing models, however there is a growing collection of STL files.
It's also an excellent place for some inspiration.
STL File Website 18 – AutoDesk 123D
AutoDesk 123D is a suite of apps giving you the power to design, create and share.
It has a large library of 3D models in STL file format.
Most of these I wouldn't class as 3D printing models but there are some hidden gems.
STL File Website 19 – Yeggi
Not a traditional STL file website but a 3D printing model search engine.
The first and the biggest with over 750,000 unique visitors per month.
Gives you an idea of how popular 3D printing is becoming!
Not the prettiest user interface, but a convenient way for you to find great 3D printing models.
STL File Website 20 – The Forge
Another website with professionally created 3D printing models, designed for desktop 3D printers.
This time exclusively by Jim Rodda, the man who brought you the Seej tabletop war game.
All of the STL files are free but you can show Jim your appreciation by making a contribution.
STL File Website 21 – Freedees
Freedees has a large collection of free 3D printing models, and also a nice blog.
The website is well laid out and really nice to use.
There are also some great STL files here too.
My only concern was the dummy text on its about page. Must be a work in progress.
STL File Website 22 – GrabCad
Owned by Stratasys, the parent company of Thingiverse, GrabCad is a free library with over 1.4 million CAD files.
There is some new GrabCad print software in Beta, which is a strong signal it wants to do more in this space.
The search bar has a 3D printing model category, and there are some pretty cool STL files to be found.
STL File Website 23 – STL Finder
Another 3D printing model search engine.
Nowhere near as big as Yeggi, but a nicer user interface.
STL File Website 24 – Redpah
Based in Texas, Redpah is another STL file marketplace.
It has a mixture of free and premium 3D printing models.
Some nice original content here too.
The website has a simple and clear layout, making the search for your next print that bit easier.
STL File Website 25 – Trinpy
Trinpy has made a real effort to focus on STL files that will actually print.
This is a breath of fresh air in a largely unchecked market.
Think of how much filament has been wasted on failed prints!
I especially like its monster truck 3D printing model.
STL File Website 26 – Sketchfab
Really a website for 3D renders, Sketchfab does have a 3D printing models section.
Some nice looking STL files but most do not look suitable for desktop 3D printing.
A nice place for getting ideas though.
STL File Website 27 – Yobi3D
Not an STL file website but a 3D printing model search engine.
Looks and feels a lot like Google. Which is nice and familiar.
It has a great 3D viewer, enabling you to examine each model without going to the host website.
STL File Website 28 – 3DExport
Founded in 2004, 3DExport is a marketplace for buying and selling 3D models.
Like many of these websites, it has branched out into 3D printing models.
There is a 3D printing models area of the website and you can search for STL files.
Most of the models seem to be jewellery, which isn't ideal for desktop 3D printing.
But there are some 3D printable things available.
STL File Website 29 – STL Hive
STL Hive focuses on professionally created 3D printing models, specifically designed for desktop 3D printing.
Most of the STL files are premium and there is a radio controlled theme on this website.
The quantity of models is low but the quality is high.
If you are interested in RC stuff, then STL Hive is worth a look.
STL File Website 30 – Libre 3D
RepRap founder Adrian Bowyer sits on the board of this STL file website.
Adhering to all the principals of open source, Libre 3D feels a lot like a small Thingiverse.
Not the largest collection of 3D printing models but with Adrian's guidance, I am sure it will grow quickly.
STL File Website 31 – Rinkak
Japan based but with an English version of the website, Rinkak focuses on premium 3D printing models.
Some pretty cool STL files but nothing you won't find on Pinshape.
Nice user interface too.
STL File Website 32 – Rascomras
Still in Beta, Rascomras has a small collection of STL files.
This is one largely for the Spanish speaking market.
Not many original 3D printing models here, and the user interface needs work.
STL File Website 33 – Repables
Repables is a very simple and clean STL file repository.
There are over 500 3D printing models here, however they aren't even grouped into categories.
You can use the search bar, or just filter through until you see something interesting.
Very basic but actually quite nice to look around.
Some interesting models too.
STL File Website 34 – TurboSquid
TurboSquid is really about 3D models for game developers and visual effects studios, rather than 3D printing models.
You can however search for 'printing' and sort by STL files.
The results will show some models suitable for 3D printing.
Despite being a premium website, a number of the 3D printing models are free too.
STL File Website 35 – Shapetizer
Still in Beta, Shapetizer is targeting the Chinese 3D printing market.
It also seems to have a focus on jewellery, something which doesn't work particularly well with desktop 3D printers.
There are some 3D printing models out with this niche however, including some toy guns. Tut-tut!
STL File Website 36 – 3D Warehouse
Containing millions of models created in SketchUp, 3D Warehouse does have an architecture theme going on.
You can sort by 3D printing models in its advanced search, but I struggled to find anything interesting.
Perhaps you can find STL files worth printing here.
STL File Website 37 – 3D File Market
Similar to My Mini Factory, 3D File Market verifies that its STL files will actually print.
My Mini Factory actually completes a test print, whereas 3D File Market just insists on photographic proof.
The website is very slow to load. It probably needs a host upgrade.
If you are patient though, there are some nice STL files here.
STL File Website 38 – MakerShop
MakerShop does focus on 3D printing models, and there are enough STL files here to warrant a look around.
Plenty to choose from but nothing I haven't seen on Thingiverse.
STL File Website 39 – ShapeKing
Not the prettiest user interface and a fairly small quantity of STL files.
Some good resources though with regards to 3D printers, 3D scanners and 3D software.
STL File Website 40 – Design Share Make
LayerTrove's sister website, has over 50 free STL files all carefully optimised for desktop 3D printing.
In addition to this, there is a collection of premium 3D printing models all developed by professional 3D artists.
We are in the process of migrating everything over to LayerTrove, but the website is still live, so I thought it was worth a mention.
STL File Websites – Conclusion
As you can see, there is no shortage of STL file websites to get your 3D printing models from.
The most well known places, such as Thingiverse, are of course excellent websites to visit.
Some of these niche players though, have so much to offer, and are definitely worth a visit.
Your exploration will be rewarded with some unique and awesome 3D printing models.
Please leave me a comment below, and let me know if this post was useful.
Are there any STL file websites you think should be on my list?
At some point any 3D printing hobbyist will wonder how to edit STL files. Sometimes, the pre-downloaded STL file or your own model is good enough. In other cases, you would need to edit or repair it. There are STL editors that help users with that.
There are two types of programs that allow users to edit STL files:
- CAD (Computer Aided Design) software. These programs aim for covering engineering and construction modeling purposes, providing precise measurements and solid modeling tools. They weren't originally developed with 3D printing in mind, although they are pretty useful for this workflow. They are not the best choice for fully fledged STL editing due to some differences in the way they represent some shapes. This article will cover some CAD programs, such as Blender, FreeCAD, SketchUp.
- Mesh editing tools. These are excellent for editing STL files, because they're developed for working with modeling and objects represented by 2D surfaces that have no filling (these objects can't be printed, although there's quite a few ways they can be solidified).
Free STL editors
3D Crafter
3D Crafter (formerly known as 3D Canvas) is a free 3D editing and animation software available only for Windows. The intuitive interface and simple controls are worth mentioning, as well as extensive animation abilities. The program supports importing and exporting a wide variety of file formats, including STL. The built-in tools make 3D Crafter a good choice for easy editing. The main shortcoming is the lack of the native ability to export STL in the free version, but you can get the Pro one rather cheaply or save files in other formats.
How to edit STL files in 3D Crafter
Opening STL files
Go to File > Import > StereoLithography (stl) and choose the object you want to import.
Editing STL files
1. Press the wheel of your mouse and move the mouse to change the view. You can also use the Orbit button in the toolbar above the model view. The Pan and Zoom buttons help as well. But if you have a mouse available, using it would be faster and more comfortable.
2. Select your part or the whole object using mouse and either right-click on the selected parts or on the rectangle in the lower-right corner of the program. It will bring the list of the options to manipulate and edit your object.
3. The left toolbar has many other tools as well.
4. You can get more tools available by changing the difficulty level in the upper toolbar from Novice tools to Intermediate or Pro Tools.
5. If you still struggle, the program has a short built-in tutorial that appears on the right when using it for the first time.
Blender
Blender is a free and open-source cross-platform 3D editing software. It's probably the most popular free 3D program on the market. It's used for creation, editing and animation of 3D models in various industries – from video game development to landscape design and construction. STL files can be easily imported and prepared, and there are many algorithms that help working with surfaces.
The program isn't easy to use, requires a learning curve and the amount of features may overwhelm new users. Blender requires a powerful PC for working with complex models but same can be said about many other CAD programs. Blender also wasn't developed with 3D printing in mind, but it's still possible to edit and repair STL files in the software.
How to edit and repair STL files in Blender
Opening STL files
Best Free 3d Modeling Software For Stl Files
1. After opening Blender there's usually a default cube present. You can delete it by placing the mouse cursor above it and pressing the 'Del' button.
2. Go to File > Import > STL, choose a file and import it.
Editing STL files
1. Switch to Edit mode. The edges of your model will now be visible.
2. Hitting Alt+L selects all elements. It will allow you to select individual points, planes and edges by pressing RMB.
3. Alt+J converts triangles into rectangles.
4. Searching for Subdivide or Un-Subdivide grants the ability to change the number of tiles.
5.Selection options Vertexes, Edge or Face select allows you to manipulate the parts of the model
6. You can search for different shapes such as Cube or Sphere to add them the model
7. You can extrude the area by using the Extrude command
8. The Boolean command can be used to cut or merge forms.
Repairing STL
1. Using the 3D Print Toolbox: Edit > Preferences > Add-Ons > Mesh: 3D Print Toolbox. It's now available in the left sidebar.
2. 3D Print Toolbox can help you fixing the issues with your STL files, the ones that prevent it from printing correctly. Most important issues are:
Overhangs requiring adding support structure.
Wall-thickness shows the thinnest walls that would be problematic to print.
Manifolds.
3. Pressing Check All checks for every issues. The list of errors is located at the bottom of the toolbox.
4. Pressing Isolated repairs edges and vertices.
5. The Make Manifold button creates mesh manifold.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export > Stl to export your model.
Here's one of the tutorials that show how to fix mesh issues in Blender:
FreeCAD
FreeCAD is a free and open-source (LGPLv2+) cross-platform CAD software. It supports full parametric modeling as well as several 2D tools handy for drafting purposes. There are various add-ons that extends the software's abilities.
FreeCAD is not the best solution for STL editing and repairing but it's still pretty functional. Among its shortcomings are the lack of a full move-around 3D view and the problems with intercepting structures.
How to edit and repair STL files in FreeCAD
Opening STL files
1. Open the program and go to File > New.
2. Click File > Import and choose the STL file. Other formats such as OBJ and AST are also supported. FreeCAD can open other mesh formats such as OBJ and AST as well.
3. Change the workbench to Part.
4. Select the model you just imported in the Model window.
5. Go to Part > Create shape from mesh. The object will be split into several triangles. The precision of the process can be changed, but 0.10 will be good enough for the majority of objects.
6. The mesh can now be deleted or hidden.
7. Click Advanced utility and select Solid from shell. Choose any object with triangles, click on it and then click on the Create button. Click Close. The object is now solidified.
8. The old shape can now be deleted and hidden. Your solid object is ready for editing.
Editing STL files
1. Change the workbench to Part Design.
2. Choose where you want to add or remove material, click on the surface so it's highlighted.
3. Click Create Sketch.
4. Create a shape you want to manipulate using the tools for drawing.
5. Click Close. Double-click on the model tree if you want to edit your sketch.
6. You can use the Pad for extrusion. And the tool called Pocket allows you to cut.
Repairing STL
1. Switch workbench to Mesh Design.
2. Go to Meshes > Analyze > Evaluate & repair mesh.
3. You can choose any possible defect in the list and click the Analyze button.
Choosing the All above tests together window and clicking Analyze works like a 'select all' option and looks for all of the possible defects.
4. Click Repair.
Exporting STL
Select the last feature in the model tree. Then go to File > Export and choose Mesh formats.
Here's a good video (no commentary) that shows FreeCAD's editing abilities:
MeshLab
MeshLab is a free and open-source cross-platform STL editing and repairing software. It doesn't even have an option to create new objects but the program is a powerful editor. The meshes can be converted and merged and later inspected and repaired. MeshLabs supports working with point clouds and can import and export many different file types, including 3DS, OBJ, OFF and, of course, STL.
How to edit and repair STL files in MeshLab
Opening STL files
Go to File > Import Mesh and select your model.
Editing STL files
MeshLab can't create new objects but it has various editing tools, especially for merging.
Merging two models:
1. Load both models
2. Click on Show Layers. Select the models.
3. Select the object in the Layer menu and click on Manipulator Tools to manipulate it.
4. Pressing T uses the Transform option, R allows you to rotate the object and pressing S gives you the access to scaling options.
5. Rotating the view changes the axis you're working in. Use arrows and drag-and-drop functions to manipulate the objects.
6. When everything is where it should be, press RMB after selecting any part of the combined mesh and choose Flatten Visible Layers. Check the first three boxes and click on Apply.
How to delete a section:
1. Click on Select Face.
2. Click Delete the Current Selected Face and Vertices.
How to repair your object or search for holes:
1. If your model is manifold, click on Fill Hole.
2. A window will appear and show you all the holes. You can select the ones you want to fill, then click on Fill and then on Accept once they're highlighted.
Repairing STL
1. Go to Filters > Quality Measures and Computations > Compute Geometric Measures if you want to check if your object is manifold. A volume file or an error will appear in a window.
2. If it's not manifold (watertight), go to Filters > Cleaning and Repairing > Merge Close Vertices, and apply it.
Go to Filters > Cleaning and Repairing > Remove Duplicate Faces, click Apply.
Go to Filters > Cleaning and Repairing > Remove Duplicated Vertices.
3. Check the file again.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export Mesh.
This video shows how to repair STL file using MeshLab:
Meshmixer
Meshmixer is a free and open-source 3D printing software. It's available for MacOS and Windows and developed by Autodesk. Rich functionality allows for various ways to work with STL files – including editing and repairing (the older versions even used to have a built-in slicer tool). The developers call it a 'state-of-the-art software for working with triangle meshes'. And the amount of features seems to prove that – hollowing, support structure branching and other abilities are useful for editing your meshes.
How to edit and repair STL files in Meshmixer
Opening STL files
1. Click on Import and choose the model.
2. Go to Edit > Make solid to solidify your object. You can also make it hollow by choosing the 'Hollow' option
Editing STL files
1. The Select option will let you mark the parts of the object.
2. Pressing Del removes the elements you marked.
3. The Meshmix option will let you manipulate various forms. They can be combined by using the Sculpt tool. You can switch to using more complex forms. The objects can be easily drag-and-dropped and rotate by using colored arrows. more models by switching from basic forms to for example arms or legs. Drag and drop the object you want to insert. Use different colored arrows to rotate or move your model.
4. Clicking on Sculpt will let you extrude or smoothen different parts.
Repairing STL
1. In the sidebar, click on Print. It will show various tools for repairing and preparation for 3D printing.
2. Select your 3D Printer from the list. If yours is absent, you can add it manually by providing its specs.
3. Click on Repair Selected. This will automatically fix all of the issues in the mesh. You can also hollow it and adjust the minimum wall thickness.
4. Click Add Support 3d desktop software for windows 7. for making a support structure. Change the settings according your printer's requirements and click Generate Support. Then choose Done.
Free digital painting software windows 7. 5. Once everything is ready, click Send to Printer.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export and select the .Stl option.
Stl software, free download
This tutorial demonstrates how you can fix STL with Meshmixer:
SculptGL
SculptGL is a free web-based 3D sculpting software. It's based on WebGL and is rather minimal, including only the necessary tools and features but still manages to be powerful enough. Obviously, it cannot be compared to much more extensive competitors such as Zbrush. But it's the best STL editor for those interested in 3D sculpting.
While it's great for editing, it lacks the ability to repair STL files and sometimes the finished result is non-manifold, which will require using repairing programs (such as those described in the article).
How to edit STL files in SculptGL
Opening STL files
1. Delete the default shape by clicking Scene > Clear Scene.
2. Go to File (import/export) > Add (obj, sgl, ply, stl) to open an STL file.
Editing STL files
1. Use the Radius slider in the Sculpting & Painting toolbar to control the size of the tool. The tools are used to define the key features of your model. Use the smaller ones for more precise editing.
2. Pressing the Symmetry button will help you to streamline the process by mirroring the changes you make in the other half of the mesh.
You can increase the resolution if you run into problems or need to work on smaller details. There are two different ways to achieve so.
Subdividing: go to Topology > Multiresolution > Subdivide.
Remeshing: go to Topology > Voxel Remeshing > Resolution, select the resolution and click the Remesh button.
Exporting STL
Go to File (import/export) > Save STL.
SketchUp Make
SketchUp is a paid 3D modeling and editing CAD software available for Windows and macOS. It has two free versions – web-based SketchUp Free (which won't be covered in this article, because it doesn't support STL editing and repair) and a discontinued (but still available at the website) version called SketchUp Make. The program is powerful and is widely used by the professionals. Its abilities can be extended by various plugins, including the STL plugin which will be covered below.
How to edit and repair STL files in SketchUp Make
Installing the STL plugin
1. Go to Window > Extension Warehouse.
2. Search for SketchUp STL, log in using Google account and install it.
Opening STL files
Go to File > Import… Choose the STL type. Browse for your model. Browse for the object you want to open and import it.
Editing STL files
1. The Eraser tool can be used to remove the triangles' edges, so at the end you will get a rectangle. The Pencil will let you to create new sketches.
2. The Push/Pull feature and the Move tool allow you to manipulate the model after finishing the sketches.
Repairing STL
SketchUp lacks the STL repair ability out of the box, but you can get the feature using various plugins. We recommend installing the free plugin called Solid Inspector.
1. Install the Solid Inspector Plugin by going to Extension Warehouse.
2. Select the mesh and click the Solid Inspector button that is now available at the toolbar.
3. The list of errors will appear.
4. The Tab feature (Shift+Tab) will help you check all the errors of the STL file and zoom.
5. The errors can be automatically fixed by pressing Fix or Fix All buttons.
Cleanup is another useful plugin that can help deleting hidden or redundant geometrical feature.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export and choose .stl format.
This video shows how to work with STL files in SketchUp:
Wings 3D
Wings 3D is a free and open-source (BSD licensed) 3D software. It's a rather simple and minimalistic program, which is pretty useful for creating basic models before exporting them to more powerful editors (such as Blenders). It works with its own .wings format, but it supports various other file formats, including STL and OBJ. The software lacks repairing features, but it's STL editing capabilities are very useful and impressive for such a simple program. The functionality of Wings 3D can be extended by using different plugins.
How to edit STL files in Wings 3D
Opening STL files
Go to File > Import > StereoLithography (.stl)… and choose the object you want to import. Keep in mind that Wings 3D will open your model to a random scaling, since the program doesn't measure the size of the imported model.
Editing STL files
1. The toolbar above the model window shows different selection modes: Vertex, Edges, Face and Body. Choose one you want to work in.
2. Select the part or the whole object so it's highlighted.
3. Press RMB and see the options available. There will be a long list covering everything from moving and rotating to more complex abilities.
4. Move and rotate options are rather intuitive – you just click on them and choose the axis you want to work in. After that you just manipulate the elements with your mouse.
5. The Absolute Commands option allows you to precisely manipulate the object setting the exact parameters.
6. While working in the Face Selection mode, right-clicking the chosen parts will show the Tesselate option. It will make possible to convert triangles of your object to rectangles, vice-versa and other options.
Exporting STL
Go to File > Export > StereoLithography (.stl)…
If you only want to export some parts, select the ones you need and go to File > Export Selected > StereoLithography (.stl)…
Here's a tutorial covering the first steps of using Wings 3D:
