I Have STL Files But No 3D Printer: Complete Options Guide
You've got a folder full of STL files - maybe from Hero Forge, Patreon subscriptions, MyMiniFactory, or Thingiverse. The only problem? No 3D printer. And dropping $300-500 on a resin printer (plus resin, washing station, curing station, and ventilation) feels like a lot when you just want a few miniatures for your next campaign.
Good news: you have options. This guide covers every way to turn those digital files into physical miniatures - from online services to local makers to library printers. We'll break down the costs, quality expectations, and turnaround times so you can choose the best path for your needs.
The Quick Answer
If you just want your STL files printed with minimal hassle, here are your best options:
Understanding Your Options
Not all printing services are created equal - especially for miniatures. The printing technology matters enormously for detail quality.
| Service Type | Technology | Best For | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maker Marketplaces | Usually Resin (MSLA) | Miniatures, custom work | $3-15/mini |
| Online Print Services | Varies (SLA, MJF, FDM) | Larger orders, specific materials | $5-30/mini |
| Specialized Mini Services | High-res Resin | Best detail quality | $8-25/mini |
| Library/Makerspace | Usually FDM | Budget, larger terrain | $1-5/mini |
| Local Print Shops | Varies | Quick turnaround | $5-20/mini |
Option 1: Maker Marketplaces (Best for Miniatures)
Maker marketplaces connect you directly with people who own 3D printers. You upload your STL files, describe what you need, and makers submit quotes. This approach often gives the best value for miniatures because:
- Most hobbyist makers specialize in miniatures and have dialed-in resin printers
- You can communicate directly about orientation, supports, and quality expectations
- Competitive bidding keeps prices reasonable
- Many offer local pickup to save on shipping
How It Works on 3D Print Bounty
- + Best prices for small batches
- + Direct communication with printer
- + Local pickup option
- + Specialized mini expertise
- + Competitive quotes
- - Quality varies by maker
- - May need to wait for bids
- - Less standardized process
Option 2: Online Print Services
Large online services offer instant quoting and professional manufacturing. They're best for larger orders or when you need specific industrial materials. For miniatures, make sure you select a resin/SLA option.
Popular Services
Aggregates quotes from multiple print services. Upload your STL, compare prices from different providers. Good for comparing options but shipping can be slow.
Global network of print services. Instant quotes, multiple material options. Quality varies by provider - check reviews carefully.
Professional service with high-quality output. More expensive but consistent quality. Good for selling your own designs.
Wide material selection including metals and ceramics. Professional grade but premium pricing. Best for special projects.
- + Instant quotes
- + Professional quality control
- + Wide material selection
- + Scalable for large orders
- - More expensive for small orders
- - Less personal service
- - Shipping adds cost/time
- - May not specialize in minis
Option 3: Specialized Miniature Printing Services
These services focus specifically on tabletop miniatures. They understand the unique requirements - proper orientation, fine detail preservation, gaming-appropriate durability.
Miniature-Focused Services
Specializes in STL printing for tabletop gamers. High-quality resin, good communication, understands miniature requirements. Based in the US.
Custom miniature printing service. Offers painting services too. Known for quality and customer service.
Prints STL files with focus on detail. Offers different resin options for various durability needs.
- + Expertise in miniatures
- + Optimized support placement
- + Consistent quality
- + Often offer painting too
- - Higher prices
- - Longer turnaround
- - Limited customization
Option 4: Local Options (Libraries, Makerspaces, Print Shops)
Many public libraries and makerspaces now have 3D printers available for public use. This can be the cheapest option, but there are tradeoffs.
Finding Local Resources
Many libraries have FDM printers. Often free or very cheap ($1-3 per print). Downside: usually FDM only, which shows layer lines on small minis. Better for terrain and larger pieces.
Community workshops with various equipment including resin printers. May require membership ($50-100/month) or per-print fees. You might need to learn to use the equipment yourself.
Search "3D printing service near me" - many sign shops and prototype services now offer 3D printing. Quality varies widely, so ask about their experience with miniatures.
Some schools offer printing services to the public or alumni. Often have high-quality industrial printers.
Important: FDM vs Resin for Miniatures
Most library printers are FDM (filament-based), which produces visible layer lines on small miniatures. For detailed 28-32mm minis, you really want resin printing. FDM is fine for terrain, buildings, and larger display pieces. Ask what type of printer they have before committing.
What to Include When Requesting Prints
To get the best results, provide clear information when submitting your print request:
STL is standard. Some services accept OBJ or 3MF. Make sure your files are manifold (watertight) with no errors.
Specify the scale you want (28mm heroic, 32mm, 75mm, etc.) or provide exact dimensions. Don't assume the file is already at the right size.
For miniatures, request resin. Specify if you need particular properties (tough resin for gaming pieces, standard for display).
How many copies of each file? Bulk orders often get better per-unit pricing.
Gaming quality (small imperfections OK) or display quality (flawless)? This affects pricing and post-processing time.
When do you need them? Rush jobs cost more. Standard turnaround is usually 1-2 weeks.
Cost Comparison: Real-World Examples
Here's what you might expect to pay for a typical 28mm miniature (standard hero-sized figure):
| Option | Single Mini | Party of 5 | Army (20) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maker Marketplace | $5-10 + shipping | $20-40 + shipping | $60-120 + shipping |
| Online Service | $8-15 + shipping | $35-60 + shipping | $100-200 + shipping |
| Specialized Mini Service | $10-20 + shipping | $40-80 + shipping | $150-300 + shipping |
| Library (FDM) | $1-3 | $5-15 | $20-60 |
| Hero Forge (for comparison) | $20-30 | $100-150 | $400-600 |
Note: Prices are approximate and vary by complexity, size, and location. Shipping costs can add $5-15 for small orders.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Check Your Files First
Use a free tool like Microsoft 3D Builder or Meshmixer to verify your STL files are error-free before submitting. Corrupt files cause failed prints.
Request Test Prints
For large orders, ask for a single test print first. Worth the extra cost to verify quality before committing to 20+ minis.
Ask About Support Marks
Resin prints require supports that leave small marks. Ask where supports will be placed and if cleanup is included in the price.
Bundle Similar Projects
Printing multiple minis at once is more efficient. Group your files into single orders for better per-unit pricing.
Get Your STL Files Printed
You don't need to buy a 3D printer to enjoy custom miniatures. Whether you have Hero Forge designs, Patreon downloads, or files from Thingiverse, there's an affordable way to bring them to your gaming table.
For most tabletop gamers, a maker marketplace offers the best combination of price, quality, and convenience. You get resin-quality minis, personal service, and competitive pricing without the hassle of owning and maintaining your own printer.