Thingiverse is one of the largest and most popular websites for finding free 3D models to print. With over 2 million 3D models available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. This article will showcase 10 amazing Thingiverse models that are must-prints for any 3D printing enthusiast. We’ll also provide tips on how to effectively use Thingiverse to find the perfect models for your projects.
An Introduction to Thingiverse
Thingiverse was launched in 2008 and acquired by MakerBot in 2011. It serves as an online community and repository where makers can upload and download 3D models freely under Creative Commons licenses. Everything from toys to tools to art pieces can be found on Thingiverse.
Models are uploaded by designers ranging from hobbyists to professionals. Each design includes photos of the printed object, instructions, and settings to use for printing. Users can browse by category or keyword search to find models. Each model has its own page where you can view images, download files, or remix and customize the design if the license permits.
The website is easy to use with an intuitive interface. To download files, you simply need to create a free MakerBot account. Downloads come in STL, OBJ, and other 3D printer file formats. Thingiverse is compatible with most consumer 3D printers.
How to Effectively Search Thingiverse
With such an expansive model database, the key to finding great projects on Thingiverse is using effective search strategies:
- Use specific keywords – Search using part names, colors, brands, functions, etc. Rather than “flower”, search “blue rose 3D model”. This yields more targeted results.
- Filter and sort – Use the filters to narrow down results by category, file type, license, and more. Sort by relevance, recent, popular, etc.
- Look through Collections – Browse curated Collections by designers or companies like NASA, Hasbro, LEGO, etc.
- Check categories – Even just skimming category sections like “Toys & Games” or “3D Printing” can reveal cool models.
- Follow designers – Follow your favorite model designers to see when they upload new creations.
- Use advanced search – Try search tools like exact phrase match, exclusion of words, or minimum ratings.
- Remix models – If you want to customize an existing design, you can often remix the model using Thingiverse’s built-in editor.
Using these search tips will help you find the perfect 3D models for printing on Thingiverse.
10 Best Thingiverse 3D Models
From practical prints to pop culture items, here are 10 of the top Thingiverse 3D models that are worth printing out:
1. Lithophane Night Light
A lithophane is a 3D printed photo that appears as an image when backlit. This customizable night light lithophane is etched with intricate details and makes a fantastic decorative piece. You can use your own photos to create the lithophane.
2. Fidget Cube
The Fidget Cube is a popular desk toy and stress reliever that provides tactile stimulation for your fingers. All the buttons, switches, and sides serve different fidgeting purposes. It’s a quick and fun print.
3. Catan Board & Pieces
For tabletop gaming fans, you can print the entire Settlers of Catan game including the board, resource tiles, roads, settlements, cities, and more. Paint them for a professional finish.
4. Flexi Rex
Flexi prints are flexible models printed with specialty filament like Ninjaflex. This adorable Flexi Rex will wiggle and bounce as you play with it. A fan favorite flexible print.
5. Coin Purse Box
Keep coins securely stored in this unique 3D printed coin purse. The twisting, rotating lid opening is the real showstopper of this useful organizational print.
6.NAREX Woodworking Clamps
For makers and DIYers, this set of woodworking clamps replace expensive name-brand clamps. Customize them to any size needed for your projects.
7. Snowflake Ornaments
Personalize your Christmas tree with 3D printed snowflake ornaments. Design your own intricate patterns or download premade snowflake STL files.
8. Life Counter
Gamers will appreciate this handy rotating life counter for tracking health/hit points during games like Magic: The Gathering, Dungeons & Dragons, and more.
9. Filament Guide
This universal filament guide clamps onto any 3D printer to neatly guide the filament from spool to extruder. Improves filament feeding and prevents snags.
10. Lithophane Business Card Holder
Make your business card holder unique by printing this customizable lithophane design. It displays your logo or text when backlit.
3D Printing with Thingiverse: Final Tips
Thingiverse makes finding cool things to print easy thanks to its massive free model database. Use these final tips to make the most of printing Thingiverse models:
- Carefully read the model description first for printing guidelines or assembly instructions.
- Download STL files compatible with your printer brand and slicer software.
- Start with highly rated models that have been tested by other members.
- Be mindful of licensing. Only print remixes or make commercial use if permitted.
- Share your own great print results on Thingiverse with tagged photos.
- Give attribution or remix credit back to the original designer.
- Use Thingiverse as inspiration for creating your own designs as well!
With millions of free STLs at your fingertips, Thingiverse will fuel your 3D printing passion with an endless supply of creative models to make. Now that you know the top designs and how to effectively use Thingiverse, you can confidently find the perfect prints for your projects and interests.
