Sandbox - 01
STL File Format Tips
STL is an acronym that stands for stereolithography, a method to approximate the surface geometry of a 3D model exclusively with triangles.
This file format is commonly used in 3D Printing, and it is commonly generated by Computer Aided Design (CAD) software or a 3D scanner.
The STL format does not include color, textures, or metadata (author, date of creation, etc.) of objects.
STL is a very common file format, but alternative formats include OBJ and STEP.
Tips
Software at PPM that previews STL
- Visual Studio Code (with extension)
- (not Adobe Bridge)
- Preview (macOS) — on Wikipedia
- (Procreate supports only OBJ and USD.)
Software at PPM that Imports STL
- Blender 4.0
- Mathematica — "Import and Export fully support the STL file format."
Software at PPM that Exports STL
- Autodesk Fusion — Export designs
- Blender 4.0
- Mathematica — "Import and Export fully support the STL file format."
Classes
PPM announces its Upcoming events, including classes, on Meetup
Training — PPM Trainer(s) needed
Links to external sites:
- STL files — on Adobe.com
- STL (file format) — on Wikipedia
Member Showcase
Related Pages
Links to related PPM Wiki pages:
- PrusaSlicer Tips
- Lychee Slicer Tips
- Autodesk Fusion Tips
- Adobe Photoshop Tips
- Blender Tips
- Visual Studio Code Tips
- USDZ File Format Tips
- GitHub Tips
Curated Links
Links to member-recommended external sites:
- STL files — on Adobe.com
- Download files and models from Autodesk Online Gallery, Cults 3D, GrabCAD, or Thingiverse
- Cura slicer — alternative to PrusaSlicer
- Orca Slicer -— alternative to PrusaSlicer
For Additional Help
- Use the PPM Slack channel #computing
- List of all PPM Slack channels
- Note that we have a Slack channel (#job-board) for members to post, discuss, or accept job opportunities either within PPM or from the community.
Search the PPM Wiki — include Content pages as well as Multimedia.
Contact Us if you cannot find your answer here on our Wiki or if you notice any outdated information.