Obtaining a 3D Model: Community of Makers
3 Min Read • Technology
In order to 3D print anything, you must have a 3D file (STL file). One of the ways to obtain a 3D file is to download an already created 3D model from an online database. There are too many of these websites filled with a community of makers to cover in one post.
Here are a few sites I have explored with 3D Model Ideas.
Thingiverse
Thingiverse is brought to you by MakerBot Industries. With over 583,000 3D models, Thingiverse is the world’s biggest 3D printing community. Most designs uploaded to the site are licensed under a Creative Commons license. Which means that anyone downloading the 3D model can use and/or remix any design. Thingiverse provides a great variety of free STL files to download and 3D print right away.
Classroom Connections
– Teachers can find something to 3D print no matter the subject they teach.
– Students can download a file to remix and make their own.
– Students thirteen and over can enter designs in Thingiverse Challenges.
Key Features
-You can search 3D models by category and keyword.
-Users have the ability to customize a number of designs within the website.
-All 3D models are free to download.
Pinshape
Geared for 3D printing, Pinshape is filled with a combination of free and pay for 3D models. Unlike Thingiverse, Pinshape users have the option of sharing uploaded designs for free or selling their designs. The site is easy-to-use, allowing browsing for models by category and/or keyword. In addition to the database of 3D models, Pinshape offers a very informative blog.
Classroom Connections
– Students can download a file to remix and make their own.
– Students can find inspiration for their own original work by looking at the pre-made 3D models.
– Students can create designs and enter contests.
Key Features
-You can search 3D models by category and keyword.
-Users have the option of selling their uploaded designs.
-Pinshape offers a free 3D Printing Design Guide filled with great content.
Sketchfab
With a great range of work, Sketchfab is a wonderful repository of 3D designs. 3D models of character designs, product designs, and 3D scans are the main focus of this site. Unlike the previous sites mentioned, Sketchfab has multiple user plans. Members have an option of a free plan, pro plan, or business plan. Available designs are both free and paid no matter the plan. WARNING, some of the work on this site may be inappropriate for younger students. Please take caution in viewing this site in front of students.
Classroom Connections
– Teachers can collect and download student work within the site.
– Teachers can create a showroom, promoting their students work within Pinshape.
– Students can find inspiration by browsing the great variety of 3D models.
– Students can create designs and enter contests.
Key Features
– You can search 3D models by category and keyword.
– Sketchfab has a beautiful looking 3D model viewer.
– 3D models have the ability to be embedded into any website and a variety of other platforms.
No matter if you have a 3D printer or not, viewing and downloading already created 3D models can be a great exploration for any classroom.
Keep Making,
Rich Stachon
