Unveiling the Best of 2019: Top 10 Iconic STL Files That Defined the 3D Printing Year
As we reflect on the incredible advancements and creative explosions within the additive manufacturing world, the close of the year presents a perfect opportunity to revisit the most successful and inspiring STL files of 2019. The landscape for 3D printing models has become increasingly rich and diverse, making the selection process a delightful challenge each year. This overwhelming abundance of high-quality, perfectly printable STL files is a direct reflection of the growing accessibility of 3D printing technology. The continued decrease in the entry price for a basic desktop 3D printer has empowered countless designers, hobbyists, and makers to equip themselves with more affordable machines. This democratization of additive manufacturing has, in turn, fueled a massive demand for innovative and engaging 3D models, pushing designers to new heights of creativity. Our carefully curated TOP 10 list celebrates not only the phenomenal contributions from established and well-known 3D designers but also shines a spotlight on emerging talents whose groundbreaking work deserves recognition. Join us as we take a nostalgic journey back to 2019 and celebrate the top 10 STL files that captured our imaginations and showcased the limitless potential of 3D printing!
#1 The Mechanical Fhuable Counter
Kicking off our list is an engineering marvel: the mechanical Fhuable counter. This truly exceptional creation by Australian designer Fhuable stands out for being 100% 3D printed, a testament to the precision and capability of modern 3D printing technology. Fhuable, a creative genius equally adept in both 3D modeling and mechanical design, meticulously crafted every single printable part. The intricate gearing and assembly are designed to function flawlessly, offering versatile operation either through a manual crank handle or an integrated electrical system. This innovative design not only demonstrates sophisticated mechanical principles but also highlights how additive manufacturing can be used to produce complex, functional mechanisms entirely from digitally designed components. It’s a prime example of how ingenuity combined with 3D printing can bring intricate ideas to life, making it a highly sought-after model for enthusiasts of functional prints and mechanical gadgets.
The mechanical 7-segment counter can be downloaded HERE.
#2 The Godzilla of Chaos Core Tech
Chaos Core Tech has long been a revered name in the 3D printing community, consistently sharing high-quality and innovative STL files. In 2019, their rendition of Godzilla took the community by storm. This incredible creature design is not only visually striking but also ingeniously engineered for hassle-free 3D printing. A standout feature is its printability without the need for any printing supports, a significant advantage that saves both time and material for hobbyists. Furthermore, it requires no filling material, simplifying the post-processing and reducing overall print duration. However, the most captivating aspect of this creation lies in the meticulous texture Chaos Core Tech developed for the monster’s skin. The fine details and realistic scales truly bring this iconic kaiju to life, demonstrating an exceptional level of artistry and technical skill in 3D modeling. This Godzilla model exemplifies how smart design can overcome common 3D printing challenges while delivering an aesthetically superior product.
The STL file of the Godzilla can be downloaded HERE.
#3 The Heliox Pixel Lamp
For anyone immersed in the world of 3D printing and DIY projects, Heliox is a name that resonates deeply. She has rapidly ascended as a rising star among YouTubers who focus on 3D printing, earning widespread appreciation for the exceptional quality and pedagogical approach of her videos. Beyond her clear explanations, Heliox is celebrated for her remarkable inventiveness, consistently presenting projects that masterfully integrate 3D printing and 3D modeling with other crafting techniques. Her animated pixel lamp, featured prominently in 2019, is a prime example of her creative brilliance. This superb lamp combines the precision of 3D printed components with engaging electronics to create a dynamic and customizable lighting fixture. The design allows users to print intricate elements that form the structure and light-diffusing panels, showcasing how 3D printing can be a foundational element in complex, multi-disciplinary projects. It inspires makers to combine their 3D printing skills with electronics for truly interactive creations.
The STL file of the Heliox pixel lamp is available HERE.
#4 Game of Thrones Dragon Lamp by 3DMON
The conclusion of HBO’s monumental Game of Thrones series in 2019 was a significant cultural event, and it naturally sparked a wave of creativity within the 3D printing community. Designer 3DMON capitalized on this phenomenon with a brilliant and highly popular idea: a lamp sculpted to resemble an iconic dragon from the series. What makes this design particularly ingenious is its well-thought-out concept. A transparent plastic part, designed to be 3D printed, is shaped to mimic a jet of dragon flame, elegantly serving as the structural support and light diffuser for the lamp. This design not only appeals to fans of the fantasy epic but also demonstrates how 3D printing can transform pop culture references into functional and aesthetic home decor. The ability to create complex, thematic objects that also serve a practical purpose showcases the versatility of 3D modeling and additive manufacturing, making it a must-have for Game of Thrones enthusiasts and lighting design aficionados alike.
The Dragon Got Lamp can be downloaded HERE.
#5 Invisiball by Extreme3dPrint
Extreme3dPrint distinguishes itself through a unique and deeply artistic approach to 3D printing. Their work often embodies a poetic sensibility, playing with imaginary shapes and creating delicate, almost ethereal drapes and forms. This distinctive style results in 3D models that possess an incredible sense of lightness and fluidity, often defying the perception of solid, printed objects. The Invisiball, a prominent design from 2019, perfectly exemplifies this artistic vision. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Extreme3dPrint also prioritizes practicality, designing their creations to be printable without the need for additional supports. This feature is a significant benefit for hobbyists, simplifying the printing process and minimizing material waste. The Invisiball showcases how 3D printing can be utilized to produce fine art and decorative pieces that push the boundaries of conventional design, offering an elegant and intriguing addition to any space and proving that 3D printing is not just for functional parts but also for high-concept art.
The STL file Invisiball is available HERE.
#6 Recycled Vases from Clémence Germain
French designer Clémence Germain introduced an exceptionally brilliant and environmentally conscious concept in 2019: a collection of vases specifically designed to repurpose and beautify old glass bottles. This creation perfectly aligns with the crucial and growing trend of reducing waste and promoting sustainability. While 3D printing sometimes faces criticism regarding its environmental impact, Germain’s design powerfully demonstrates how, with a touch of inventiveness and thoughtful design, additive manufacturing can actively contribute to circular economy principles. By providing elegant, 3D printed sleeves or bases that transform discarded bottles into stylish decorative pieces, she effectively challenges negative perceptions and showcases the technology’s potential for eco-friendly solutions. These recycled vases offer a practical and aesthetic way for individuals to engage in upcycling, making this model not just a beautiful design but also a statement piece for sustainable living and innovative 3D printing applications.
The Recycled Vase STL file is available HERE.
#7 RikkTheGaijin’s Articulated Hand
From Japan, designer RikkTheGaijin brought forth an exceptionally clever and functional 3D model: a recreation of the universally recognized wooden articulated hand, a staple decorative and artistic reference object. This designer ingeniously integrated 3D printing into the creative process, resulting in a superb modern interpretation that is both fully functional and remarkably easy to print. One of its key features, highly appreciated by the 3D printing community, is its ability to be printed without the need for supports. The final product is a perfectly articulated hand that can be posed in various gestures, making it an excellent desk companion for artists, designers, or anyone looking for a unique conversation piece. It serves as a fantastic demonstration of how 3D printing can take a classic object and give it a contemporary twist, offering a fun and interactive way to display messages or simply add a touch of modern design to your workspace.
The Articulated Hand can be downloaded HERE.
#8 The Imagine Gorilla Piggybank
What better guardian for your hard-earned savings than a formidable gorilla? This imaginative concept was brought to life by an excellent French designer, resulting in the highly popular Imagine Gorilla Piggybank. The level of detail achieved in this 3D model is truly exceptional, rendering the animal almost lifelike with its intricate fur texture and powerful stance. This creation combines artistic flair with practical utility in a playful yet striking manner. Beyond its imposing appearance, the design features a cleverly integrated system for retrieving coins from underneath, eliminating the need to “face the animal” or, more practically, to break the piggybank to access your funds. This thoughtful design element adds to its functionality and user-friendliness, making it a beloved choice for both adults and children who appreciate unique and secure ways to save money, all while showcasing the detailed capabilities of desktop 3D printing.
The Gorilla Piggybank is available HERE.
#9 The Mechanical Phone Holder by Aaron Mollet
Aaron Mollet’s mechanical phone holder is a masterpiece of thoughtful design and functional 3D printing, a project entirely realized through additive manufacturing. The underlying observation that drove this innovation was simple yet profound: traditional 3D printed phone holders often struggle to adapt to phones of varying sizes. Aaron Mollet brilliantly addressed this common issue by devising an ingenious mechanical system. His design leverages the weight of the device itself to trigger a gripping mechanism that securely holds the phone. This automatic adjustment provides unparalleled versatility, ensuring a snug fit for almost any smartphone placed within it. This holder is a prime example of how 3D printing can solve everyday problems with elegant mechanical solutions, demonstrating a high level of engineering skill applied to a practical gadget. Its fully 3D printed nature makes it a popular project for those looking to explore complex functional mechanisms and enhance their workspace with custom 3D printed accessories.
The mechanical phone stand 3D model can be downloaded HERE.
#10 Amao’s Sea Turtle
Concluding our top 10 list is the magnificent sea turtle by Amao, a designer who consistently earns a place in these rankings due to the sheer beauty, clever design, and profound meaning behind their creations. Amao’s models are not just aesthetically pleasing; they often carry an important message. This particular sea turtle design from 2019 serves as a powerful reminder and raises awareness about the precarious fate of sea turtles, which are increasingly endangered due to human activities. The model itself is elegantly crafted, capturing the gentle majesty of these ocean inhabitants. Its popularity underscores the growing trend of utilizing 3D printing as a medium for artistic expression and environmental advocacy. Amao’s ability to combine stunning visual appeal with a poignant message resonates deeply with the community, making this sea turtle more than just a 3D print; it’s a symbol of both artistic excellence and social consciousness within the additive manufacturing world.
The flying sea turtle file is available HERE.
This retrospective on the top 10 STL files of 2019 clearly illustrates the vibrant creativity and diverse applications flourishing within the 3D printing community. From complex mechanical systems and artistic expressions to practical solutions and environmentally conscious designs, these models showcase the broad spectrum of possibilities offered by additive manufacturing. The year 2019 was a landmark period, cementing 3D printing’s role not just as an industrial tool but also as an accessible platform for individual innovation and creative exploration, largely driven by the affordability of desktop 3D printers and the passion of the maker community. We hope this journey through some of the year’s most iconic 3D models has inspired your next project. What were your personal favorite 3D files from 2019? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your opinions in a comment below or connect with us on our Facebook and Twitter pages. And for all the latest news, trends, and breakthroughs in the world of 3D printing, don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter, delivered straight to your inbox!