How to Use STLRepo

Finding 3D models online shouldn't be a scavenger hunt. You've got Thingiverse, MyMiniFactory, Cults, Printables, and a bunch of other sites that each have their own search features. STLRepo allows you to search all of them at once. We index over 372,000 models so you can find what you need without opening a dozen tabs in your browser.

How Search Works

Using STLRepo is really easy. Type what you're looking for in the search box at the top of the page. On mobile, tap the menu button to find the search box. We'll search through all 372,000+ models from sites like Thingiverse, MyMiniFactory, Cults, and more. You will find models with their thumbnails and know which site hosts the model based on the results.

Click any model you find that looks good and you'll head to the original creator's site to download it. We don't host the files ourselves, we just help you find them faster with our 3D printer search engine. Some model sites require you to create a free account, while others let you download right away without an account.

Search Tips for Better Results

Finding the right model requires you to use the right keywords. The best keywords are descriptive like "desk organizer" or "phone holder" instead of "thing" or "stuff." If you find that you are getting too many results, you may want to add more details to narrow down your search query. For example, if you are looking for an iPhone 17 case, you would search for "iPhone 17 case" rather than just "phone case."

Not getting the results you're looking for? Go broader. Search for "holder" instead of "magnetic screwdriver wall mount organizer." Sometimes you need to try different words such as "container" compared to "box" or "organizer." Experimentation is the key here.

Some good examples of search queries that work well: "headphone stand," "self-watering planter," "filament clip," "D&D wizard miniature," or "modular hex drawer." You will notice that these are specific enough to narrow things down, but not so specific that nothing matches. If you know brand names or specific models, include them: "raspberry Pi 4 case" or "warhammer terrain."

Browse Without Searching

Not sure what to print? We've all been there, especially when we have a shiny new 3D printer in front of us! There are different ways to find models to print on STLRepo. On the homepage, you can find categories for popular model searches which might include Gadgets, Games, Miniatures, etc. Each category shows you popular models in that type.

You can also explore the Popular page to see what everyone else is searching for and downloading. The best way to discover quality models is to see what thousands of others have printed successfully. Someone else has already worked out the print issues, so you'll have fewer problems. You can also visit the Recently Added page to see which models have been recently added to STLRepo and discover something new!

If you really have no idea what to print and are feeling adventurous, hit the Random link and see what comes up. You never know what interesting design you might stumble upon.

Understanding Results

Each search result shows a thumbnail preview so you can see what the model looks like. You'll also see the model's title and which site hosts the model, such as Thingiverse, Printables, etc. This helps you know where you're heading before you click the model.

When you click a model, you're taken directly to the creator's model page. From there, you can see full details, more images, print settings, and user reviews from other users who've printed it. You can also check if the model is appropriate to print with your 3D printer and whether it is free or paid before you start downloading.

What Happens After You Click

It is important to note that STLRepo is a search engine and not a file host. We don't store the 3D models ourselves or the files associated with the models. When you click a result, you go straight to the original creator's website where the files are hosted.

Each site handles downloads differently. Thingiverse lets you download models without creating an account. MyMiniFactory might ask you to follow the creator first before downloading. Some platforms like Cults have both free and paid models. Just follow whatever process that site uses.

Always check the license information on the creator's page. Some models are free for personal use only, others allow commercial printing.

Quick Tips

Before downloading, take a minute to check the details on the creator's page. Look at the preview images from different angles if a 3D viewer is available. Read the description for recommended print settings, layer height, and whether you'll need supports. Some models include assembly instructions or notes about the size of the model (scale).

If you're searching for something specific and can't find it, try browsing the category instead. Sometimes seeing related models helps you refine what you're actually looking for. The Popular section is also great for inspiration, which is why those models are so popular.

Can't find exactly what you want? Try different search terms or check back in a few days. We're constantly updating our index with new models from different model sites.

That's It!

Search for what you need, browse categories if you're exploring, or check out popular models for inspiration. We've made finding 3D models as easy as possible so you can spend less time searching and more time printing away.

Happy printing!