3D models offer a vivid representation of physical objects. The models can either be created manually, algorithmically, or by scanning.
These models are often connected by a number of features including triangles, curved surfaces, and lines. The models can be quite helpful when a new artist is trying to print out their own designs.
Referring to any 3D model while creating your own is one of the easiest ways to learn and boost your 3D printing skills. Keep in mind that most 3D models come with a set of instructions or detailed dimensions to make the work of printing much easier.
A look at some of the best free 3D models available today can be key to identifying the ideal pick for you to use when printing.
Best Free 3D Models For Printing
1. 3DBenchy
First up on this list of the best free 3D models for printing is 3DBenchy. This is one of the most popular 3D models since it has already received up to two million downloads on Thingiverse alone.
3DBenchy is a 3D model designed by Creative Tools, a company that offers software and hardware solutions for both beginners and professional 2D and 3D creators.
This model was designed to help creators benchmark and test their 3D printers. The object can help you get a better understanding of certain geometrical features of your 3D printer.
This particular model is supposed to print at a 1:1 scale without the inclusion of any support materials. While it may seem like a simple object, it presents most printers with challenges they need to overcome before excelling in the field.
The good news is that its small volume makes it possible to print within two hours. To get the 3DBenchy model, simply visit the main site and download its high-resolution STL file.
Then import the file into your 3D printer software. You can then try using the dimensions in the file to come up with your own model.
It is a good idea to try out different resolutions and software settings. And don’t worry about getting it wrong, many people have had some pretty funny failures, but after a little practice everything turns out perfectly.
2. Phil A. Ment
Next up on this list is Phil A. Ment, a mascot and one of the most popular free 3D models. It was designed by MatterHackers, a company based in Orange County, USA, and deals with 3D printing materials and tools.
This particular model was designed with the aim of helping creators calibrate their printing machines to a T. The mascot boasts several features with one of the most prominent being small inset details.
You can also find small embossed details, fillets, bridging, and chamfers. Additionally, there are overhangs and vertical and horizontal cylinders.
Phil A. Ment also includes a perfectly domed helmet to complete the look. To determine if your printer is well-calibrated, you’ll notice that the mascot prints exceptionally well at any scale starting from 12 millimeters tall to 350 millimeters tall.
To get this 3D model, you’ll need to head over to the main site and sign up for a free account. Then locate the MatterControl section and look for the download section to find the various files available for download.
There, you can find the files that are related to the mascot and download them before importing them to your 3D printer software.
If you do not feel like creating an account on the site, you can skip the process and find the download files directly from the Phil A. Ment page.
As noted before, you can print out your own model using different resolutions and dimensions.
3. Flexi Raptor
Another awesome 3D model you may want to consider is the Flexi Raptor. This particular model was designed by Cavedog, an engineer who has done an impressive job in creating several 3D models.
The Raptor is a dinosaur that has just the right amount of features to ensure that both beginners and professionals can have a go at creating their own figures. A particularly notable feature of this 3D model is that it can move in a number of ways.
The flexibility is brought about due to its 19 joints. This flexibility gives it a realistic look and feel.
It also features claws in its arms which makes it possible for it to hang onto the edges of objects such as computer monitors or shelves.
It is worth pointing out that the tail is quite delicate and therefore requires careful printing to avoid any mistakes.
You’ll be pleased to know that no supports or rafts are required to print this model. It is also prudent to print the model on its right side.
Once you get the design right, you can go ahead and print a bunch of Flexi Raptors to decorate your office or home. To get the files related to this model, you can head over to Thingiverse and find designs by Cavedog.
4. Mini Floor Stands
If you are looking for something simple to print, you may want to have a look at these Mini Floor Stands. They are 3D model pieces designed by a creator named muzz64 and have simple messages such as “Wet floor”, “Out of order”, “Beware of the dog,” and so forth.
The Mini Floor Stands feature a collection of 136 pieces.
A particularly impressive thing about this 3D model collection is that each piece can be printed flat on the bed. What’s more, you can print them in dual colors because of the filament change mid-print.
You can also use any colors you choose as long as you get the contrast right. Another important detail to keep in mind is that each part only has two moving parts.
That means that you can easily scale up your pieces to get the perfect sizes. The creator of Mini Floor Stands advises those who copy the design to opt for a layer height of 0.20 mm, with 15% infill or more, and two perimeters or more.
To find this particular 3D model collection, visit MyMiniFactory and download relevant files for printing. Mini Floor Stands are a creative and fun way to communicate simple messages both at home and in the workplace.
5. Collapsible Basket
Another interesting 3D model you may want to check out is the Collapsible Basket. This particular model is designed by 3DPrintingWorld.
It is one of the easiest models to create because it prints in place. It also prints flat and does not require any extra support or brim.
The model utilizes wooden materials which are cut through a wood-cutting trick. An impressive feature of this model is that it is collapsible.
That means you can always collapse it when not in use just to save space. You can also do that when transporting it from one place to another.
Another thing you need to know is that the basket is held upright thanks to its bottom legs. To find this 3D model, head over to Thingiverse and locate designs by the artist mentioned earlier.
You can then feel free to download all the files that are related to this particular model and then use the information contained to print your own design.
Keep in mind that the original model is created in inches. That means you’ll have to upscale it in your slicer by about 2540% to convert it to metric measurements.
While on the designer’s page, you’ll also be able to access remixes to this particular model. Each remix comes with its own unique printing files.
6. TARS
Another excellent 3D model you may want to have a look at is TARS. This is one of the most popular characters from the movie Interstellar.
The model is designed by Delphant who also has a variety of other impressive models. A quick look at this model will reveal that it has four distinct sections or parts.
If printed correctly, TARS will be able to move or rotate freely in much the same way as the original does in the movie. Note that TARS’ movements vary according to the way you initiate the motion.
Another important thing to keep in mind is that this model prints in place and does not require any extra support which is always a good thing. Of course, you may have to use a brim just to ensure exceptional bottom quality.
During creation, you can print some panels separately with different colors just to give them a unique look. The panels can then be glued onto the main piece without causing any complications.
You can also print out a second version using dual colors just to diversify the look. The model’s designer recommends that you print this piece starting at a layer height of 0.2mm and 15% adaptive cubic infill.
To find the detailed files for printing this particular model, head over to Printables and find the designer and then look for the TARS piece. There, you can easily download the relevant files to use in your 3D printer.
7. Collapsing Lightsaber
The Star Wars saga is certainly one of the most beloved by people across the globe. It has some of the most interesting characters and weapons.
It is, therefore, no surprise that one of the most popular 3D models you can find is a replica of the lightsaber. This is a print-in-place toy weapon designed by 3DPrintingWorld.
When creating this particular weapon, you can print it in its collapsed form rather than in an extended form. If you get your measurements right during printing, you’ll end up with a 205mm long weapon when collapsed and a 950mm long lightsaber when extended.
The exterior of this weapon is fashioned after Luke Skywalker’s lightsaber in the movie version of the saga. The interior of the model features a number of concentric cylinders which make it possible for the weapon to expand and collapse.
Another interesting thing about this lightsaber is that it makes a cool sound when being expanded. That is all thanks to the layer lines rubbing together.
For the best results, the designer recommends that you print it with a 0.4mm nozzle so that you can get a two-shell thick blade. You should also consider using 0.15mm coast and 3mm wipe especially if you are using an MK3 printer.
To find the files with the actual measurements and instructions on printing, head over to Thangs and find items that are designed by this particular creator.
You can then download the relevant files and import them into your printer’s software for design purposes.
8. Articulated Onix
Next up on this list of the best free 3D Models for printing is the Articulated Onix. This is a remarkable figure by designer Body 3D, who also has up to 144 unique 3D models on Thingiverse.
The Articulated Onix is a creature straight from the fictional world and is known as a giant rock snake. The model conforms to relatively big numbers and you can therefore expect it to fill up most build plates.
Smaller printers may not be the ideal place to print out this model. Instead, consider using printers that are able to handle bigger objects.
Of course, there is always the option for you to resize any model you come across, but the results are not always guaranteed to be good.
It is worth pointing out that the creature’s horn is separate from the body. That means once you are through with the printing process, you’ll need to attach it manually.
Before you start printing, drop the body about 0.3mm below the plate. That is meant to guard against complications that may arise due to the designer’s signature at the bottom of the model.
To find files for printing this 3D model, visit Thingiverse and find designs by the artist mentioned earlier. You’ll then be able to access download files that can be imported into your printer’s software.
9. Handcuffs
The next 3D model that can help you sharpen your printing skills is a pair of handcuffs. This model is designed by an artist that goes by the name of Maciek.
The handcuffs are a print-in-place model which means they are quite easy to set up. You don’t need to worry about using any support to hold them up or on the side.
An outstanding feature of these pairs of handcuffs is that they are functional in nature. That means you are able to make a locking mechanism while you create them.
There is also the option to print a key along with the handcuffs just to give them a more realistic look and feel. When printing these handcuffs, it is advisable that you use a 0.15mm layer height for the best results.
You should also think of using the snug style supports in PrusaSlicer. However, that will be broken off the first time you insert the key into the locking mechanism.
Once you are through with the printing process, you should go ahead and apply some silicone grease to the locking mechanism. That is likely to make the process of locking and unlocking smooth.
You can also go ahead and carry out some light sanding for good measure. To get the files related to this pair of handcuffs, simply go to Printables and look at designs under the artist mentioned above.
These handcuffs can make for a good collection in your 3D cabinet. They can also be used by kids as toys for when they play cops and robbers.
10. Cable Clips
Another simple 3D model you can print comes in the form of cable clips. This particular model is designed by an artist called Shobit.
One of the best things about these cable clips is that they are functional. That means if you get the printing right, you can use the end product to arrange your cables neatly at home or in the office.
The designer of this model notes that he uses anything between 2.5 to 5 grams of filament. That is quite affordable and easy to acquire too.
Of course, you may need more of the material if you want to design more cable clips to use. Another awesome thing to keep in mind is that it only takes about 25 to 45 minutes to complete the printing process depending on the size of the clips.
The clips can be printed out without the need to use any extra support. They simply lay flat on the template. Once finished, the clips have two hinged parts with a locking mechanism to keep cables held firmly in place.
To get the best results, use a layer height of 0.15mm and at least 2 parameters. You can head over to Printables to find the files you need to use when determining the right dimensions for these cable clips.
Also Read: Best Substance Painter Alternatives
11. Phone/Tablet Stand
Next up is the Phone/Tablet stand which looks and works excellently. This particular 3D model was designed by Jonnig, a technology enthusiast.
This is another print-in-place model which means you won’t have to worry about finding other supporting materials. It simply lays flat on the template.
The stand comes in three sizes to ensure that anyone can use it for their particular device. The small version measures 52x83x3mm, which is almost the size of a regular credit card.
The medium version measures about 60x100x4mm and is compatible with almost any smartphone. It also holds tablets up to nine inches long.
The medium version is sturdier and more rigid when compared to the small version. The third is the large version which measures 120x80x5mm.
It is relatively sturdier and more rigid than the two previously mentioned versions. It is also more durable and can even handle iPad Pros.
If you get the printing right, you can be sure that the end product will be a safe place for you to rest your devices. The relevant files for printing are available on Thingiverse.
Explore: Best AutoCAD Alternatives
12. Cycloid Gearbox
If you are looking for a 3D model that is a little more challenging, the Cycloid Gearbox may just be your best bet. It is designed by an artist called RyanKelly.
This is a print-in-place model that features a gear assembly on the interior. The design is that you even get rotational torque in your gearbox.
The model is designed to work seamlessly with robotic arms. You’ll also be pleased to know that this model is fully parametric, giving you the freedom to make adjustments to tolerance in case of complications.
The model’s files are available on Printable.
13. Hex Bit Storage Box
Another 3D model you might want to consider is the Hex Bit Storage Box. It is a creation of an artist known as Cooknadam.
This particular model is designed to act as a storage unit for 1/4″ bits. Like most of the models on this list, it does not require any extra support.
To get it right, the author recommends that you print it out at 0.2mm layers with at least three walls. Of course, you can always make slight adjustments to accommodate bits of varying sizes.
The Hex Bit Storage box is large enough to hold a significant number of bits yet it is also compact enough to boost portability. To find relevant files for printing, visit Cults and find the designer’s models.
14. Wrench
Another model you may want to print out on your 3D printer is the wrench. It is a design by an artist known as Barspin.
The wrench is designed to be adjustable making it possible for you to use it in moving or clamping on things of different sizes. The wrench features a worm screw that rotates and thereby making it possible for you to adjust the movable parts.
It is designed with pre-installed supports for increased accuracy. Of course, you’ll need to remove the supports as soon as you are done printing.
For the best results, consider printing your own design with a 0.2mm layer height on ABS. You can find printing files for this particular 3D model on Thingiverse.
15. Parametric Butt Hinge
Next up is the Parametric Butt Hinge, which is an easy 3D printing model. It was developed by Rohingosling.
This particular 3D model can be printed in one go. However, you are also free to print each leaf independently.
The files for this particular model are pretty simple and detailed so that you can customize parameters as you deem fit. The hinges are quite functional and may therefore be helpful in various applications.
Visit Thingiverse to find the relevant files for printing.
Final Word
The above-listed 3D models are some of the best for anyone to try. They include toys, tools, and decorations to spruce up your home or office.
It is important for you to pick something relevant to your skill level and needs just so you do not run into too many hurdles. For instance, the 3DBenchy model is an ideal pick for anyone that wants to test and calibrate their printer.
Mini Floor Stands can be an interesting way to pass short messages, while the Flexi raptor and lightsaber can make for excellent toys.
