Sourcing 3D Models: A Guide
Caleb | Nov. 9, 2022, 1:48 p.m.
Interested in 3D printing but strapped for ideas? Wondering where all the good 3D files have gone to hide? Well, wonder no more! This guide will go over some of the best websites for finding ready to print 3D files and models.
1. Thingiverse
Probably the most well known in the 3D file world, Thingiverse is a treasure trove of various 3D files. Here you’ll find a wide range of categories: from fashion to gadgets, hobby to household, art to education, and many, many more. Thingiverse’s files are community created, and free to download. The only challenge here is the sheer volume of files makes looking for anything specific a somewhat laborious task. However, if you are just in the mood to do some window shopping of ideas, Thingiverse contains more than enough content to keep you entertained for hours at a time.
2. Printables by Prusa
If you’re looking for something more specific and perhaps of verifiable quality, Printables by Prusa presents you with an array of award-winning designs, as well as somewhat more focused lines of designs. Community driven, these files are free of charge while covering a wide range of item categories and themes. Printables is your place to go for a more focused, high quality, but still free experience.
3. MyMiniFactory
The serious hobbyist's port of call, MyMiniFactory is a nexus for talented and professional 3D modelers, working in the gadget, accessory, and hobbyist spheres. Here you will find highly professional and detailed items, ideal for those with an eye for detail and quality. However, quality does not come for free, and most items on MyMiniFactory will cost you. But for the enthusiast, MyMiniFactory is a mainstay.
4. Cults3D
The wild west of 3D designs, Cults 3D’s offerings range from the mundane and useful, to the wacky and interesting. If you’re looking for something new, or perhaps a unique browsing experience, this might be a worthwhile stop. With some of its more explicit materials locked behind age verification, Cults3D is still a suitable experience for all, but certainly a little spicier than the others before it.
And here are some of the more popular options for sourcing 3D files out there. If you’re looking for a place to get those ideas printed, why not head to PringGig.co.nz, for your 3D printing needs.