[CNC Machining] A compilation and comparison of 11 CNC 3D model download websites.

Here are 11 resource websites where you can see how different model files are used, plus "CNC Model Search Tips" to give you plenty of inspiration . Hopefully, this article will help you take your first step in creating your CNC sculpting works.


What is CNC machining?
CNC stands for " Computer Numerical Control ," also known as " numerical control machining ." CNC machining is a common subtractive manufacturing technique. This process involves using cutting tools to remove material from a solid workpiece to achieve the desired shape. CNC machining is fundamentally different from 3D printing (also known as additive manufacturing) because it removes material from a blank workpiece rather than adding material to build the part.

Case study created using Snapmaker CNC and Rotary modules

What can a CNC machine do?

CNC machining can be used with a wide variety of materials, including plastics, wood, jade, and metals. Technically, you can even build houses using CNC machining with just some assembly, not to mention toy cars, ukuleles, PCBs…


The CNC engraving workflow requires three steps:



1. Create your own model or obtain a model from a model download website.
2. Use CAM software (such as Snapmaker Luban and Fusion 360) to convert the model file into G-code. The G-code will guide the machine on how to move.
3. Import the G-code into the CNC machine. Begin engraving on your machine and wait for the job to complete.

Now that you understand the functions and working principles of CNC machines, you can utilize creations from people around the world on the following CNC resource website, or directly download model files and sculpt them.
* However, in addition to specifying files that are compatible with CNC machines, it is important to identify whether a particular model is suitable for CNC engraving.

Download 3D models from 11 CNC resource websites

Thingiverse

As one of the world's largest and most active 3D model file repositories, Thingiverse boasts 3 million users and over 2 million models . From everyday household items and ACG character models to amazing gadgets, it has it all. Although primarily focused on 3D printed models, it's easy to find models suitable for CNC sculpting.

GrabCAD

GrabCAD boasts over 9 million users and nearly 5 million model files, all available for free download . The site primarily focuses on models for professional fields such as automotive, mechanical, architectural, and industrial design, which differentiates it from other 3D model repositories. However, you can also find many models suitable for CNC sculpting. For example, the keyword "chess" will return some good matching results.

In addition to filtering by model category, GrabCad's search filters also support specifying file formats and the software used to generate the models. To quickly find the models you need, use precise keywords combined with appropriate filter criteria.

With over 4,850,000 models, the search is quite efficient.

File types: STL, STEP, SVG, OBJ... Model download price : Free

MyMiniFactory

MyMiniFactory is one of the most popular 3D model marketplaces, boasting over 160,000 models. While known for its relatively small number, many models are designed by professional designers and are of excellent quality on average. All models undergo community testing to ensure they are compatible with 3D printing, and some are even compatible with CNC milling.

MyMiniFactory focuses on paid models from the arts and popular culture sectors, such as games, anime, and movies. If you're good at design or modeling, this is a great place to showcase your talents.

MyMiniFactory also offers a small selection of free models. The website highlights an easy-to-use search filter that allows you to refine your results by category, price, model complexity, and the 3D printer model used. Directly searching for "CNC" doesn't return ideal results; it's better to enter more specific keywords such as "embossing."

With over 168,000 models , the search function is highly efficient.

STL file type , download price, mostly paid.

Cults

Cults is another rich repository of 3D models for designers, showcasing exquisite models. The site boasts over 3 million users and nearly 420,000 models, including both paid and free options. If you are skilled at creating 3D models, you can upload your work to Cults and price it in just a few steps.

Surprisingly, searching "CNC" directly on Cults yields a considerable number of models specifically designed for CNC carving. However, more precise keywords will undoubtedly bring more satisfying results. On the account "STLFILESFREE," you can find dozens of beautiful wood relief models, all free.

With 419,000+ models , the search is easy to use.

File types: STL, OBJ, SCAD models. Download price: Paid or free.

TurboSquid

TurboSquid models are used by game developers, architects, visual effects companies, advertisers, and creative professionals worldwide. You may have seen TurboSquid models hundreds of times without even knowing it. Most of the models uploaded to the website are for sale. Most models on this website are not suitable for 3D printing or CNC machining, but you can filter them using STL format and specific keywords such as "embossing". You can also filter for free models, although the results may be limited.
Instructables
Unlike the aforementioned model repositories, Instructables is a community for DIY enthusiasts to share their creations . Each case includes detailed step-by-step instructions with pictures, animations, and videos; each step allows other users to add hints or ask questions for full interaction.

From electronics and mechanics to woodworking and cooking, Instructables offers a wide variety of projects. The "Workshops" subpage has dedicated sections for 3D printing, laser cutting, and CNC engraving. The CNC section is a treasure trove of information for experienced CNC enthusiasts. Additionally, the website features a "Teachers" section, broken down by grade level, encouraging instructors to apply DIY projects in their classroom teaching. A simple search for "CNC" followed by keywords such as "CNC toys" will likely yield fascinating results. While not every project comes with a pre-prepared model file, all projects are available for download as a packaged PDF file.

The website does not provide information on the usability of its search function.

File types: STL, DXF, PDF. Model download price: Free.

Maker Union
Maker Union offers high-quality, free DXF files with a user-friendly interface. DXF is a vector image format ideal for CNC machining, serving as a 2D model to guide the machine in cutting. Unlike laser engraving machines, CNC machines will not leave black borders when processing DXF files. The finished products are perfect for decoration.
The website showcases themed file displays, with a collection of beautiful DXF files available for one-click download. Although there are only slightly over 240 themes, each theme contains an average of 6 to 8 files, all ready for CNC machine cutting. Maker Union supports keyword searching by theme, allowing you to choose to display search results by popularity, publication date, and more.

With 240+ models, the search function is quite user-friendly.

DXF file type , free to download .

MakeCNC
MakeCNC offers only high-quality paid models, covering various categories such as architecture, vehicles, ships, mazes, and animals, totaling over 1400 models. Each model consists of a set of vector graphics that can be directly used for CNC machining. Assembly is usually required, so a detailed assembly manual is included in the downloaded file. While cutting individual vector graphics is not difficult, machining complex surfaces and sculpting assembled parts requires more CNC machining experience.

Model count 1,400+, search usability

File types: DXF, SVG, PDF. Model download price : Paid.

STLFinder
As its name suggests, STLFinder is a search engine for STL format 3D models . Thingiverse, GrabCAD, and MyMiniFactory are some of the major 3D model libraries included in its index. The total number of models indexed is enormous; the keyword "wall art" alone returns 159,316 results. It only supports filtering by paid or free models.


Etsy
Etsy is a marketplace focused on handmade and craft products . In addition to physical goods, there are a wide range of categories, including home décor, toys, art, and tools; you can find 3D models and 2D designs. On each model file's page, you can see buyer reviews and photos of the finished product. You can also open your own shop on Etsy and price your work.

Searching directly for "CNC files" in the search bar will yield hundreds of 3D models for CNC machining, ranging from wooden Star Wars calendars to world map reliefs. The website supports filtering by keyword matching, price range, publication date, and more. Additionally, the search bar displays recently viewed items.



Craftsmanspace

Craftsmanspace offers a wealth of free 3D models and 2D patterns . In addition to a dedicated section for model files, the free projects section collects user-uploaded examples with detailed PDF files. The website also features a knowledge section with extensive information, including a comprehensive introduction to woodworking joints complete with illustrations and terminology.

Pinterest
Anyone involved in design is likely familiar with this well-known platform: Pinterest. As one of the world's largest image-sharing platforms , it offers a wealth of unexpected and creative design ideas, making it a great source of inspiration for aspiring 3D makers. Due to its size, searching with CNC-related keywords, such as "CNC cutting design" (using English search results is ideal), yields a large and diverse range of results, including many outstanding works.
*Only images of the finished product are provided here, not the original files used for CNC machining.



The resources shared this time are so abundant that they can be used in combination. Are you ready to try making a project? Get your CNC machining center out and turn your creative sparks into reality!

The following are also recommended CNC milling machine tools.

► Snapmaker Artisan 3-in-1 Machine | 3D Printing | Laser Cutting | CNC Cutting
► Makera Carvera Desktop CNC Machining Machine
► Roland MDX-50 desktop CNC milling machine

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