5 Ways to Get 3D Models to Sell on Teleport

Want to start selling 3D-printed products, but don’t know where to get the designs?

Good news: You don’t have to be a CAD wizard to get started.

Whether you want to sell trending products or create something totally unique, there’s a method for every skill level, from downloading ready-made models to designing from scratch.

In this guide, we’ll cover the 5 best ways to get 3D models for your Teleport store, starting with beginner-friendly options and working up to advanced techniques.

1. Download Models from Repositories (Beginner Level)

If you’re brand new to 3D printing and want the fastest route to stocking your store, downloading ready-made models is the easiest entry point. These repositories are filled with thousands of designs, many free, that you can start selling right away. You don’t need design skills or specialized software, just a keen eye for picking products with potential.

Popular Repositories:

• MakerWorld

• Printables

• Thingiverse

How it Works:

1. Search for products that fit your niche

2. Download the STL file

3. Upload the STL to Teleport

It's really that simple.

Examples Niches (Click Image to Find Models)

2. Partner with Designers

   
   

Stepping up from free 3D model repositories, we have subscription-based platforms and direct collaborations with designers. These options let you work with top designers who can produce exclusive, high-quality models, and provide a clear commercial license for your store. Partnering with skilled designers can ensure that your products, not only look great, but are optimized for print quality, durability, and customer appeal. The better the designer, the better the product.

Where to Find Designers:

• Thangs

• Patreon

• Fiverr

Some of Our Favorites (Click Image to View Designers)

3. 3D Model Generators

   
   

If you’re not ready to dive into CAD software but still want to create unique, marketable products, 3D model generators are the perfect middle ground. These tools make it easy to produce semi-custom designs by letting you adjust templates or input simple data, no advanced modeling knowledge required. They’re especially powerful for creating personalized products that customers love, like photo-based gifts or name-branded items. Best of all, many of these generators are quick to learn, allowing you to launch new products in hours instead of weeks.

Tools to Try:

• ItsLitho - Turn photo's into custom lithophane night lights or lamps

• CookieCAD - Create custom cookie cutters & embossers

• Terrain2STL - Create topographical maps of any place on the planet

We did a video going into more detail with each of these tools. Check it out below.

4. Text-to-3D Model Tools

   
   

AI is making it easier than ever to turn your ideas into physical products. These platforms let you describe what you want in plain language, and the software generates a 3D model. They’re great for rapid concept development, experimenting with unique shapes, and generating multiple design variations in minutes. While AI models sometimes need a bit of refinement before printing, they’re an excellent way to explore new product possibilities quickly.

AI Tools to Try:

• Rodin

• ConjureCAD

• Supercraft

• Backflip

We also did a video reviewing the top AI text-to-3D model tools. Check it out below.

5. Design from Scratch Using CAD (Advanced Level)

   
   

When you’re ready for full creative control, designing from scratch in CAD is the ultimate way. This approach gives you the freedom to create products that perfectly fit your vision, brand, and customer needs. It’s more time-intensive to learn, but it allows for limitless innovation and originality, something that can set your store apart in a crowded market. With CAD skills, you can rapidly prototype, test, and improve products based on customer feedback, all while owning a completely unique design.

Popular CAD Tools:

• Fusion 360 - A professional-grade CAD/CAM tool great for precision engineering and product development. ($85/monthly)

• Shapr3D - Slightly less powerful than Fusion 360, but much more intuitive for beginners. It is an iPad-based CAD app, although desktop is supported, ideal for fast ideation and 3D modeling. ($38/monthly)

• Womp - Browser-based CAD platform that uses "liquid" 3D shapes to offer a unique, beginner-friendly, "kitbashing" approach to 3D modeling. ($12/monthly but has Free plan)

• 3D Builder - While it’s feature-limited compared to full CAD programs, it’s excellent for prepping, repairing, and making quick adjustments to STL files before printing. (Free)

If you’re interested in learning how to design 3D printed products from scratch, you’re in luck. We run one of the largest 3D printing design channels on YouTube, where we share real-world design tips, and best practices for creating products that are optimized for both printability and production. You can explore these resources in the Teleport Learning Center.

Final Thoughts

From downloading ready-made models to mastering CAD, there’s a path for every skill level to start creating 3D-printed products. And with services like Teleport, there’s a path for every skill level to start selling 3D-printed products.

Seriously. You don't even need to own a 3D printer.

You just connect your store to Teleport, upload your models, and then whenever you get an order, we handle all the printing and shipping. Allowing you to focus on growing your business and designing (or downloading) awesome products.