HomeImage ConverterPNG ConverterConvert PNG to STL

Free Online PNG to STL Converter

Or drag and drop your files here to upload.
A maximum of 20 files can be uploaded at once.

Please note: Your PNG file, once uploaded to our server will be deleted 15 minutes after upload so please download your converted PNG file before this time.

How to Convert your PNG to STL Online?

Here are 2 simple steps to convert your PNG to STL using our fast and free PNG converter tool.

Upload your PNG file

Click the "Upload a PNG File" button, then select a PNG to upload. The maximum file size is 100MB.

Download your STL

Click the download link to receive your STL file.

File format information for PNG and STL

ExtensionPNG
Full NamePortable Network Graphics
TypeImage
Mime Typeimage/png
FormatBinary
Opens WithPaint.Net, Photoshop

A PNG (Portable Network Graphics) file is a widely used image format that was developed as a replacement for the GIF format, which had limited color support and was subject to patent issues. PNG files use lossless compression, meaning they retain all the original image data without losing quality. This makes PNG ideal for storing graphics, logos, and images with sharp lines or text, as it avoids the artifacts associated with lossy compression formats like JPEG. PNG supports various color depths, including 24-bit true color and 8-bit grayscale, allowing it to represent a wide range of colors and shades.

One of the key features of PNG files is their support for transparency. PNG supports an alpha channel, which allows parts of the image to be transparent, making it perfect for creating images with irregular or non-rectangular shapes that can blend seamlessly into different backgrounds. This transparency feature is particularly valuable for web design and graphic editing tasks, as it facilitates more flexible and visually appealing compositions.

While PNG files provide excellent image quality and transparency support, they tend to have larger file sizes compared to some other image formats like JPEG. This can be a drawback, especially for web use, where smaller file sizes are preferred for faster loading times. However, the advantages of PNG in terms of lossless compression, high-quality images, and transparent backgrounds make it a popular choice in various contexts, including web design, digital art, and image editing.

ExtensionSTL
Full NameStandard Triangle Language
Type3D Model
Mime Typeapplication/vnd.ms-pki.stl
FormatText
Opens WithBlender, MeshLab, CAD Assistant, DAZ Studio

An STL file, short for Stereolithography, is a widely used file format in 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD) applications. It serves as a standard method to represent the surface geometry of a three-dimensional object. The format was first developed by 3D Systems in 1987 and has since become a fundamental file type in the additive manufacturing industry. STL files are essential in the process of converting digital 3D models into physical objects through 3D printing technology.

STL files consist of a collection of triangular facets that approximate the shape of the 3D model. The surface of the object is divided into numerous small triangles, forming a mesh representation. Each triangle is defined by three vertices in 3D space and possesses information about its orientation and size. Since STL files store only the outer surface of the model, they are often referred to as "mesh" files or "surface" files, as they lack information about the object's internal structure or color.

When using STL files for 3D printing, slicing software processes the 3D model by dividing it into layers and creating the instructions for the 3D printer to build the object layer by layer. Despite its simplicity and widespread usage, STL files have some limitations. They do not support color or texture information, and the triangle-based representation can lead to larger file sizes and reduced accuracy compared to other file formats. Nonetheless, STL remains a vital format in the 3D printing ecosystem due to its simplicity and compatibility with a wide range of 3D printers and software.

Information for converting from PNG to STL

Our PNG converter will convert your PNG file to a 3D model using the Heightmap process whereby 2D pixels, based on their luminosity, are converted into 3D space to create a full 3D STL model ready for download for further processing in your favourite 3D editing package or for printing on a 3D printer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I convert my PNG file to STL?

First click the "Upload..." button, select your PNG file to upload. Your PNG file will be uploaded to our servers. When the PNG to STL conversion has completed, you can download your STL file straight away.

How long does it take to convert my PNG to STL?

We aim to process all PNG to STL conversions as quickly as possible, this usually takes around 5 seconds however this can be longer for certain files, so please be patient.

How accurate is the PNG to STL conversion?

We aim to provide the best conversion experience. Our tools are under constant review and development with new features being added every week.

How is the 3D model generated from my PNG image?

Our tool uses a Heightmap process whereby the STL 3D model is created based on the luminosity of the individual pixels in you PNG image.

Is there a limit to the size of my image?

Yes, to ensure our tool converts the PNG image quickly and with a reasonable final file size, your tool will resize any image larger than 600x600 pixels.