Millions of 3D models are available for download online, most of them free. It is always worthwhile to search or browse for an existing 3D model before designing something brand new. Adapting an existing model is another option.
The websites listed below are recommended for educational purposes and touch readers. Another quick way to find 3D models is to conduct a Google image search with a description of the desired model and .stl, for example “human brain .stl”.
Quick links: Generalist 3D model repositories; 3D model repositories for touch readers; 3D model repositories for education, STEM and specialist areas; <href=”#uploading”>Uploading your models to a repository; Return to the 3D printing guidelines overview.
Generalist 3D model repositories
- Pinshape – A generalist collection of 3D models with a mix of free and paid designs.
- Printables – A quickly-growing repository of free models, with categories for educational materials.
- STLFinder – A dedicated search engine for millions of 3D printable models, with links to the original site where the model is hosted. It is possible to create an account to bookmark your favourite designs.
- Thingiverse – By far the biggest selection of 3D models available, with over 2.1 million designs. It has a huge selection across many areas and all models are free.
- YouMagine – A generalist site with more than 16,000 free 3D printable models.
3D model repositories for touch readers
- metalibrary
- BTactile – A metalibrary for easy searching of tactile graphics and 3D prints designed/selected for touch readers. Note that some of the models include braille in European languages.
- generalist collections
- APH Tactile Graphics Image Library (TGIL) – Requires a (free) subscription.
- ImageShare – A metalibrary with 3D models as one of the many accessible formats available to search.
- Medien Augenbit – A German site with mainly mathematical and scientific models designed specifically for touch readers. Includes lots of rulers and accessible tools. Note that some models include braille in German.
- Tactiles.eu – 3D printing repository designed specifically for accessibility, featuring the top 20 models requested by touch readers and vision specialist teachers. Accessible format producers are encouraged to contribute their own designs.
- Thingiverse includes a number of collections by designers for touch readers, including ANZAGG, Braille & Large Print Services from the NSW Department of Education, NextSense, SVRC and See3D
- specialist collections
- 3D Opal – 3D objects for accessible education in physics, chemistry and astronomy
- Even Grounds – Buildings, including those related to Louis Braille. This is a paid site.
- Fittle – 3D jigsaw pieces with braille letters to support early tactile literacy.
- Microbiology for the Blind and Visually Impaired – 3D printing models with associated lessons
- NASA 3D Resources – Space-related models from NASA, including tools, rockets, landing sites, asteroids, etc. Some models include braille labels.
- Nonscriptum – Geometry lesson plans for students who are blind or have low vision with accompanying 3D printable models
- Star Coins – large collection of constellations, each on a disk with a threading hole, along with related lesson plans
- Tactile Universe – 3D astronomy models with accompanying lesson plans
- A Touch of the Universe – tactile astronomy kits for children with print disabilities
3D model repositories for education, STEM and specialist areas
Note that these repositories are for a generalist audience, therefore some models will be unsuitable for touch readers.
- African Fossils – Archaeological finds from up to 25 million years ago.
- 3D Printing the X-ray Universe – 3D models created using data from the Chandra X-ray Observatory
- Dremel DigiLabs Lesson Plans – A curated collection of free 3D printable models accompanied by lesson plans for hands-on education.
- hhmi Biointeractive – Some models of diseases, viruses and cancers.
- MiniWorld3D – A collection of detailed 3D models of landmarks & famous buildings of the world, designed explicitly for 3D printing. There is a mix of free and paid models.
- NIH 3D Print Exchange – The NIH 3D Print Exchange is designed for sharing scientifically accurate 3D models with the STEM community. Collections include neuroscience, the heart library and molecule of the month.
- Polar Cloud – An online social platform for sharing 3D print designs and curriculum for education. Sign-in required, with free accounts for schools and universities.
- Scan the World – Artworks, statues, artefacts, etc. from museums and galleries around the world.
Uploading your models to a repository
Designers should be uploading our 3D models for touch readers to a public repository to reduce duplication of effort. You can then contact BTactile to ask for your models to be included in their meta-repository. When uploading models, include as much information as possible so that the model can be evaluated and used by blind makers. This includes:
- tag the model with metadata:
- accessible and for touch readers who are blind or have low vision
- for educational models, what is the appropriate age range and subject matter?
- describe the model, including:
- what does the model depict?
- what does the model look/feel like?
- is it realistic or stylised?
- are the corners sharp or rounded?
- how can you recognise the front or top of the model?
- how many parts
- whether the model includes braille labels and if so, whether the braille is contracted or uncontracted; what language is used
- alt text description of images
- provide instructions for printing and assembly, e.g.
- specify whether the model needs supports and what type of supports are most suitable
- recommended settings for infill for strength
- recommended orientation for printing (and upload the model in this orientation)
- assembly instructions
- any finishing required, such as smoothing or painting
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Last updated: August 25, 2025 at 17:00 pm