Top 5 Sites to Find Free 3D Models

So you’ve got a 3D printer and now you’re wondering: "Where do I get stuff to print?"

Great news: the internet is overflowing with free 3D models just waiting to be downloaded, sliced, and turned into physical reality. Think of it like a treasure chest for makers, except instead of gold nuggets, you’re pulling out phone stands, cable organizers, wall hooks, cosplay armor, and replacement knobs for your dryer.

Various 3D Prints You Can Find On Thingiverse

Where to Find 3D Models

Here are some of the best (and mostly free!) places to find printable 3D models:

Thingiverse

Let’s start with the classic. Thingiverse is the OG of 3D model libraries. It's community-driven, massive, and packed with everything from gadgets to gifts to hilarious memes turned into physical form. Most models come as .stl files (the most common 3D-printable file type), and sometimes you'll find multiple parts zipped into one download. Look for models with lots of “Makes” and high rating as they’re more likely to print well. You can check out our designs and follow us here:

Widget KC on Thingiverse

Printables

Made by the folks behind the popular Prusa 3D printers, Printables is clean, modern, and growing fast. It has a super helpful filtering system and often includes print settings, filament suggestions, and user-made remixes.

Cults3D

A blend of free and paid designs, Cults3D leans a bit more toward artistic and designer-focused models. Think jewelry, art toys, and home decor. Some creators charge a few bucks for premium models, but many are free and still high-quality.

MyMiniFactory

If you’re into miniatures, fantasy, or tabletop gaming, this is your playground. MyMiniFactory is home to professional designers, indie creators, and everything in between. Freebies abound, and there are awesome STL bundles for RPG campaigns or model painting.

Sketchfab

While not all files on Sketchfab are optimized for printing, there’s an enormous selection of 3D models—many of which can be downloaded and adapted for printing if you know your way around basic mesh cleanup. It’s also a great place to preview models in 3D before downloading.

What’s in the Download?

When you download a model, especially from Thingiverse, it usually comes as a .zip file. Inside, you’ll find:

• One or more .stl files (the most common file type for 3D printing)

• Sometimes a readme.txt or license file

• Occasionally images or instructions from the creator

You can preview .stl files on many free programs like:

• 3D Viewer (included with Windows)

• Paint 3D

• Cura, PrusaSlicer, or OrcaSlicer (slicers that also have preview modes)

And if you're wondering what a slicer is—it's the software that turns your model into printable instructions for your printer. It's like the translator between your computer and your 3D printer.

Final Thoughts

Finding awesome 3D models online is half the fun of 3D printing. Don't forget you can learn to create your own and unlock a whole world of potential. Whether you're making tools, toys, or tentacle-shaped toothbrush holders (yes, that's a thing), there's something out there for everyone.

Start with Thingiverse, branch out to sites like Printables and Cults3D, and don’t be afraid to remix, customize, or even design your own.

Have fun, keep experimenting, and happy printing!