Download a 3D model and get it printed

From search to print in 5 simple steps

No need to be an expert: follow these 5 steps to go from a model found online to a 3D printed part delivered to you.

1. 1

   Find your 3D model

   Use our search engine, which covers Printables, Cults3D, Sketchfab and Thingiverse in a single search, or browse the sites directly. English keywords bring the most results ("phone stand", for example). Sort by popularity or number of likes to find the best models, and look at photos of real prints (makes) to judge the finished result.

2. 2

   Download the STL file

   On the model's page, click the download button. If several formats are offered, choose STL: it's the universal 3D printing standard, the simplest and the most compatible with our printers. Create a free account if the site asks for one. Some models come in several parts (separate files): download the complete ZIP.

3. 3

   Check the file (optional)

   Want to check the file before sending it? Open it in free software: 3D Viewer (built into Windows 10 and 11) shows an STL with a double click, and MeshLab (free) detects and fixes mesh errors. If the model displays correctly and looks as you expect, it's fine. Otherwise, we check it for free before printing.

4. 4

   Upload it for an instant quote

   Upload the STL file on our order page: you get an automatic quote, priced on the volume, the material and the options you choose. Pick PLA for decoration or PETG for strength, give the size you want if the model needs resizing, and add a note for any special instructions (colour, finish...).

5. 5

   Printing and delivery

   We print your part with quality materials. Follow your order online and pay securely by card. Collect it free in Toulouse, or have it delivered anywhere in France by Mondial Relay or Colissimo. Need help? Contact us at any time.

Useful links for each step: search for a 3D model, our STL file guide, the order page, the materials guide and order tracking. More about collection in our Toulouse guide.

Outside France? We ship abroad by Mondial Relay or the carrier of your choice. The online checkout only takes French addresses, so contact us (in English if you like) and we'll give you the shipping cost.

Which 3D file format to choose?

STL is recommended in the vast majority of cases.

STL is the simplest format to process, the lightest and the most universal for 3D printing. Every 3D model site offers it, and it works directly with our machines. It holds only the geometry of the model, with nothing superfluous: easier to process, quicker to load, and no risk of losing data in transfer. If a site offers STL, OBJ and 3MF, take the STL.

To go further, read our complete guide to preparing STL files.

Where to find free STL files

The four main platforms for free and premium 3D models, and what each one offers.

Search all 4 platforms at once

Rather than opening four sites, use our 3D model search engine: one search covers Printables, Thingiverse, Cults3D and Sketchfab. Once you've found the right model, download the STL and upload it on our order page.

More guides on 3D files and printing

Frequently asked questions

Which file format should I send for a 3D print?

STL is the most common and simplest format for 3D printing. We also accept OBJ, STEP and 3MF. STL is recommended because it's universal, light and compatible with every slicer. If the site offers several formats to download, always choose STL first.

What's the difference between STL, OBJ, 3MF and STEP?

STL contains only the geometry (a mesh of triangles) and is the universal 3D printing standard. OBJ can include textures and colours but is heavier. 3MF is a modern format that includes geometry, colours and metadata. STEP is a professional CAD format, very precise but it needs converting. For the vast majority of prints, STL is all you need.

How do I know if a 3D model is printable?

Models on Printables, Thingiverse and Cults3D are designed for 3D printing and can be printed as they are. On Sketchfab, some models are decorative and may need adjustments. Either way, we check your file for free before printing and tell you if anything needs fixing.

Are free 3D models really free?

Yes, models marked free can be downloaded at no cost: you only pay for the 3D printing (material, machine time, finishing). Note that some platforms, such as Cults3D, mix free and paid models, so check the price before downloading.

Can I have a model I found online printed?

Yes, as long as its licence allows it. The most common Creative Commons licences allow printing for personal use. For commercial use, check the licence on the model's page. If in doubt, contact us.

The model is too big or too small. What can I do?

We can resize any model before printing. Just give the size you want (for example "15 cm tall") in your order notes. The price adjusts automatically to the final size.

How much does it cost to print a downloaded model?

It depends on the volume of the part, the material and any finishing options. As a reference, small parts of around 9 g that we printed cost about €13 including VAT, and a 152 g dragon figurine €41.86. Upload your STL on our order page for a free, instant quote.

Which material should I choose for my 3D print?

PLA is ideal for decoration and figurines (economical, good visual quality). PETG is recommended for functional parts, as it resists heat and impacts. TPU is flexible, perfect for cases and seals. Our materials guide has a full comparison.