Color By Layer STL Generator

1. Image Processing

Select Image File:

Number of Colors (e.g., 2-10):

Target Max Image Dimension (for processing & preview): Affects initial processing time and preview quality. Model detail is controlled separately below.

Dominant Colors

Alpha Channel Option

Use Alpha Channel (Treat transparent areas as empty in STL)

2. STL Generation Parameters

Layer Thickness (mm):

Output Model Width (mm):

Model Detail Factor (0.1 - 1.0): Lower values (e.g., 0.1) create simpler, less detailed models. 1.0 is full detail from processed image.

Invert (Darkest color is the highest layer)

Final Layer Details

Generated STL Dimensions:

Width (X): --- mm

Height (Y): --- mm

Depth (Z): --- mm

Status & Logs

Waiting for actions...

Logs:

3. STL Viewer

📘 User Guide

Getting Started: Upload and Process

The app needs to download a few scripts before anything can happen, GIVE THE APP TIME TO LOAD this can take a minute or 2 and depends on your browser and internet speed.

Begin by clicking "Select Image File" to choose an image from your device. You can use common formats like PNG, JPEG, or GIF. Next, decide on the "Number of Colors" for your model; fewer colors result in a simpler design.

The Target Max Image Dimension can remain unchanged, this reduces the image to 1,000 pixels which is more than adequate. A larger image means more processing time. If you encounter problems you can reduce this number and processing will be quick but at the expense of a less quality STL.

When you're ready, click the "Process Image" button. You will then see your original image alongside a new, processed version.

Creating Your 3D Model

Once your image is processed, you can define the physical dimensions of your 3D model. Set the "Layer Thickness" for the height of each color layer and the "Output Model Width" for the overall size.

To adjust the complexity of the shapes, change the "Model Detail Factor"—a lower value creates a simpler model. "The Model Detail Factor is the most important setting and affects the quality of your STL. It is set to 0.1 as default but for a good quality print, push that up to 1.0 - if the app hangs then lower the number. "After configuring the settings, click "Generate STL".

Screenshot of the STL generation parameters

Preview and Download

After the STL file has been generated, you can preview your creation by clicking "View Generated STL". If the 3D model meets your expectations, click "Download STL" to save it. For a complete walkthrough, watch our video guide below.

Color-by-Layer STL Generator