Guide · 2026
No STL file? How to get something 3D printed from a photo or an idea
Can you 3D print a part without the file?
Yes. Post your project with a photo, a sketch with measurements, the part you want copied or just the idea, and makers in the network who do 3D design or scanning send you an offer covering the design and the print. Bear in mind that design takes hours of work and is charged separately: for a small part it often costs more than the print. The more measurements and references you give, the tighter the price.
What to do, depending on what you have
A photo or a sketch
For simple parts (a bracket, a cover, an adapter): photos, a sketch with dimensions and measurements taken with callipers. A maker models it from scratch.
A part to copy
If you have the part, or the pieces of the broken one, it can be measured by hand or 3D scanned. For parts that fit with another, measuring usually works better.
Just the idea
A gift, your own design, something that doesn't exist yet: describe it with references and rough measurements. This takes the most design work.
It may already exist
Before paying for a design, check whether someone has already made it on Printables, Thingiverse or MyMiniFactory. If you find it, you have your file.
Print my STL
What to send for an accurate quote
- 1
Photos from several sides
With a ruler or a coin next to it so the size is clear. A single photo doesn't show the scale.
- 2
The measurements that matter
In millimetres and, ideally, taken with callipers: especially the ones that fit with another part, such as holes, shafts and slots.
- 3
What it's for
Indoors or outdoors, in the sun or near heat, whether it takes weight. That decides the material.
- 4
Quantity and timing
How many you need and by when. If you'll want more later, say so: the design is paid for once.
Model it or scan it?
Modelling from measurements
The maker draws the part in CAD software from your measurements. Best for:
- Spare parts and parts that fit with others.
- Geometric shapes: brackets, covers, cases, adapters.
- Parts you may want to change later.
3D scanning
A scanner copies the shape of an object. Best for:
- Organic shapes: figures, sculptures, cosplay pieces.
- Complex surfaces that would take a long time to draw.
A scan doesn't give exact measurements for a fit and usually needs touching up. Shiny, transparent or very dark objects are harder to scan.
How much it costs
The price has two parts. The print costs the same as any other job: a small spare part in FDM is around €10 and a medium case or cover around €12 (excluding VAT and shipping).
Design or scanning is charged for the work, and varies a lot from one part to another. Ask in your project for the design and the print to be priced separately, and agree with the maker whether you get the file: that way you can reprint the part whenever you like.
What people without a file ask for
Of 110 requests recorded on Fabrishare, 97 already came with the file and 6 needed modelling or scanning: 3 spare parts, a piece of jewellery, a miniature and a decorative figure. The most common case without a file is a broken part that needs remaking.
How to order it
- 1Post your project for free and choose «I have a photo» or «Just the idea». If a part needs scanning, tick «3D scanning».
- 2Add the photos, the measurements and what the part is for.
- 3Makers who do design or scanning send you an offer with price and lead time. You compare and choose.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a part printed from just a photo?
Yes, if the part is simple and you add measurements. A photo alone doesn't show the scale or the fit: with callipers and two or three photos from different sides, a maker can model it.
How much does it cost to have a part designed in 3D?
It depends on the hours of work: a simple bracket takes little, a figure from scratch takes a lot. Ask for the design and the print to be priced separately in the offer, and compare makers.
Do I get the 3D file?
It depends on what you agree with the maker: ask before you accept the offer. If you get it, you can reprint the part without paying for the design again.
Can any object be scanned?
Almost any, but shiny, transparent or very dark objects are harder, and very small ones need a precision scanner. For a part that fits with another, measuring with callipers is usually better than scanning.
Can I copy a figure or a brand's design?
No: copying or scanning other people's figures and designs isn't done. Remaking a functional spare part for something you own is a different matter, and very common.
What if I don't know which material I need?
Say so in the project and explain what the part is for: the maker will suggest the material. If it's for outdoors or near heat, mention it.