Skip to Content

How to Create a 3D Print File (with steps)

Do you have a 3D printer and want to make your own cad files? It’s possible to create a printable file that you can use to make 3d objects.

These files can be for personal use or for business purposes. You can even sell stl models on any of the popular online markets.

This post will explain how to do it easily on your own, in as little time as possible, with free CAD software or paid printing software.

List of most Popular 3D Printing Software Tools

There are lots of software packages that you can use to make 3d files. The printing technology is constantly being upgraded on most of them in order to obtain the best results.

Some tools offer a free version or a free trial period. This gives you a chance to test out how they will work with different printers before making a commitment.

3D Print Programs

  1. Vectric Aspire Software For CNC
  2. SketchList 3D
  3. Vectric VCarve Desktop Software for CNC
  4. Blender
  5. Fusion 360
  6. OnShape
  7. OpenSCAD
  8. FreeCAD
  9. SketchUp
  10. MeshLab
  11. ZBrush
close up of a 3d printer making a red turtle How to create a 3d print file, filament on rolls, head being printed inside a 3d printer

Tools and Supplies

Here are the basic tools that you’ll need to create a printing file.

  • Computer
  • 3d design software

How do I create a 3D file?

The steps to create a 3d file are similar to the steps to create an svg file. 

  1. Open your 3d file software program
  2. Create your model file (Use the templates provided, and if you wish, references from a photo or picture online)
  3. Save your design as an STL file

What file type do you use for 3D printing?

STL files are the common file format used for 3d prints. These files are made using CAD or 3D software programs. 

The acronym STL, stands for stereolithograpy or standard triangle language or standard tessellation language. This format uses a series of triangles to recreate the surface geometry of a solid model.

Some of the software needed to make stl files are free and some are available to buy for a one-time payment or a recurring monthly fee.

Make 3D Files in Color

Did you know that you can create 3D files in color? 

Most of the files used by 3D printers are one-color designs based on the STL file format. But, you can make a 3d rendering using multiple colors.

While it’s not necessary to create your files in color, it can be helpful to see the different parts of complex designs.

I’ve broken down the file types into two categories just below.

One Color Files

STL printable model is a 3D design plan that contains only a single color. There is only one default value of a file in stl format.

Multi-Color Files

There are a few file types that allow you to create 3-dimensional files in color. These are:

  • WRL
  • AMF
  • Gcode file
3-dimensional printer making a rectangular design

Where can I create an STL file?

You can create an STL file on any home computer with the aide of a software program.

Another option is to have someone else do it for you. 

Did you know that there are printing services that will design and print your files for you? They offer lots of different services along the printing process timeline. 

You can opt for them to do it all for you, from A to Z. Or, you can opt for just one service like designing a file or printing a spare part.

Watch the video to see the new 3D design for woodworkers

man working a woodworking project

Facts and Common Questions

Is 3d software expensive?

The prices for 3d printer software range from low budget to high budget. There are also free software (open source) programs if you are looking to avoid high prices.

If you are shopping for a 3d printer, it’s a good idea to verify the necessary software before purchasing. Certain printers may have a native file format that only works with specific software.

The additional benefit of investing in paid software is the support material. The more expensive programs may include perks such as video lessons or group learning sessions.

Can I make money with this? 

Making stl files for 3d printing can be very profitable. It’s a great way to make passive income as a designer or crafter.

There are many online shops on marketplaces like Etsy, that sell downloadable 3d files. Crafters buy the files to make designs in their printers.  

Can I share my digital file?

After you make your digital file, you can share them with others on community forums like nih 3d print exchange.

How much time will it take to make my own 3d files? 

Depending on the cad program that you choose, you can be up and running with making your own 3d files in a matter of minutes.

Of course, just like anything else, the more you practice, the better you’ll get at making your own 3d files.