In this blog we have selected 10 websites where you can download free STL models for your 3D printer.
1. Thingiverse
This website allows users to upload and share 3D model files to be used on 3D printers. The site is extremely popular and has a large community of people uploading files of varying categories, so if you’re looking for cool things to print, Thingiverse is the site to visit.
2. YouMagine
This website started out in 2013, yet it is filled with interesting things to print. The community is still growing and is one to look out for.
3. Cubify
Cubify is the website for the Cube series of consumer 3D printers, which is created by 3D Systems. The site mainly offers you ways to buy 3D printed items and files but it does make available some interesting free items, mainly under their Kids section, some of which children can customize using a web app.
4. Pinshape
Pinshape, a 3D model marketplace still in beta, is similar in style to Pinterest, in terms of layout, look and the ability to repin favorites. You can either purchase the model from the designer or download the files to print it yourself, if they offer it.
5. GrabCAD
The aim of GrabCAD is to “help engineers develop products faster”, offering tools that help them collaborate with their files. But for the average 3D printing enthusiast, the best part of the site is their large library of free files created by a community of over a million engineers. Registration is required but the number of files offered is worth it.
6. Sproutform
Another 3D printing community, Sproutform is a website dedicated to giving users ways toshare their design and help people print 3D creations. Sproutform has a system that tries to learn what you like. The more you interact with the site by downloading and rating designs, the better it is with recommendations.
7. Autodesk 123D
Autodesk 123D is a suite of computer aided design (CAD) and 3D modeling tools aimed specifically at hobbyists. Along with the suite of tools, Autodesk also has a website where users can upload their creations and share it with other users. Many of the models can be downloaded and printed, using Autodesk as a utility to interface with MakerBot 3D printer.
8. Repables
Repables is a very simple site that aims to be a repository of 3D printed model files, nothing more. It is a barebone website that allows users to upload their files to share, and download files they want to use. The site contains a lot of small, simple 3D models to print, with a nice selection of everyday items and even replacement parts for printers.
9. Cubehero
Cubehero is a website that allows users to host and organize their 3D printed projects in order to aid further collaboration on their work. Think of it as a GitHub for 3D printing, where users can share their files, discuss projects and contribute to them. There is also a way to make request, so if you can’t find what you are looking for, you can request for it from the community.
10. Bld3r
Billing itself as a 3D Printing Social Network, Bld3r is a thriving community of makers who like to feature their creations. Users vote on the best creations, so popular creations rise to the top and get better exposure. The site features items that are hosted on the social network and outside of it too, like on Thingiverse and YouMagine.
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Interested to start 3D printing yourself? Check out our new Leapfrog 3D printer Creatr HS, € 1,999.00 excl. VAT
Source 3D website Hongkiat – Check their website for 15 more free websites to download free STL models for 3D printers.