You can access the step-by-step instructions below on converting CAD programs to STL files from 3D printing forums and each software’s website. But don’t worry because we’ll tell you more about STL Format editing too. Sometimes, you’ll be required to edit the STL format. Therefore, an STL format is a standard file formatting used by most additive manufacturers as a triangulated 3D CAD model representation. If a model has a complex structure, then it holds more triangles. STL format signifies model surfaces containing small triangles. You can use this file format for rapid prototyping, computer-assisted manufacturing, and 3D printing. STL file format is supported by other software, whether it’s mesh editing tools or CAD software. It’s also called stereolithography, and 3D systems design STL files for CAD software. It’s a commonly used file format for preparing STL files used for 3D printing. STL is an acronym standing for Standard Tessellation Language (STL). It most likely converted into several loose parts that you’ll need to tie together with a box or baseplate Remember, if you don’t put your logo on a base you’ll end up with alphabet soup.Also, I’ll describe how to convert an image into an STL file, the commonly used software used for creating 3D printing STL files by beginners, plus how to create and edit STL files through that software.Īlso, we’ll answer your burning questions about 3D printing STL file creation. If you’re told the image is too big, reduce the largest dimension to 100mm, which fits comfortably in the 200x200mm default workplane.Ģ. Open a new design in Tinkercad, then import your SVG file. If you’ve never used Tinkercad, Matterhackers has a great 10 minute introduction to this simple modeling software. You can get creative with this part of the tutorial, but for now let’s stick to placing our logo in a simple box.įor the next step we’re going to assume you know the basics of Tinkercad. You only need to sign up for a free account. Tinkercad is also cloud based so you won’t need to download anything. Tinkercad was developed to introduce students to modeling software, so this is not only a free option but an easy program for beginners. Now that you have an SVG file you’ll need to convert it into an STL file. (Image credit: Tom's Hardware) Convert to an SVG in Tinkercad

How to make an stl file for 3d printing