How to convert .stl file to use with CC Pro

[FlyingWoodChips (Chester McFarland)]

So I have been using my Shapeoko 5 4x4, just a newbie, mind you. But I purchased some .stl files on line, to attempt doing some simple 3D projects. Have watched lots of utube videos. What is the trick or process to convert these .stl into a format which CC Pro can use to complete the design and then make the tool paths???

Does not appear to be a simple solution, found some free on line software called DeskProto, is this a good idea?

[Redlander (Tim Jones)]

I have not ventured into 3D carves yet, however it seems the first step that is asked/discussed is the need to create an outline for the file itself to be imported into. This is explained by simply drawing a circle or square larger than the STL object itself so that its bounded within a border per se.

I’m sure others will chime in, but today is a holiday and therefore forum traffic may be slower today than normal for reply’s.

[WillAdams (William Adams (Carbide 3D))]

It is done by importing:

(sphere icon)

See:

Importing an STL

as requested on support… given an STL: [image] to import this into Carbide Create Pro one would: set up a suitable size job: Job Setup [image] [image] draw geometry to define where the import will be centered: [image] switch to the model tab: [image] and Import STL: Introduction selecting the file in question: [image] and then selecting the desired face: [image] and setting other options as desired: [image] and confirming the 3D preview: [image] Done [image] If…

Making a plaque using an STL

as requested on support… Given the request: trying to get the eagle to be carved and to end up looking like a plaque and the STL file: [image] and the job setup: [image] We start by drawing a rectangle the size of the stock: [image] and modeling it to a reasonable thickness: [image] [image] Then we import the STL: [image] which imports at much too great a thickness: [image] (red indicates that the model exceeds the height of the stock) If we use the “Scale to Height” bu…

Importing Crocodile STL and assigning toolpaths

Since this was first set up, Carbide Create v8 has been released, and the UI has changed somewhat. Install v8 per: which when launched appears as: [image] Given the requirement: cut out the 3d model to approximately 3/4 " thick with the base material or the material that is left under the image to at least 1/2" One would set up the file as: [image] which when converted into Imperial shows a thickness of 0.8276" [image] so we reduce the thickness to 0.75": [image] So we draw a…

[FlyingWoodChips (Chester McFarland)]

So I am trying to follow the steps to import an .stl file. I have them saved to my local directory (Mac OS). If that makes a difference? I go into CC Pro, create a job of an appropriate size, I think. I go to the CC model link, click on the ball, my directory comes up, I select the .stl file, click on open, and then nothing happens, no pictures show up/imports into CC, so I am doing something wrong. Tried several times and with different .stl files. Same result…nothing happens. so what am I missing???

[WillAdams (William Adams (Carbide 3D))]

Is the STL binary or ASCII format?

If ASCII, open in a suitable program and re-save as binary.

Importing ASCII format STL files

If presented with a set of STL files in ASCII format such as: [image] which will not import into Carbide Create Pro, they must be opened in a 3rd party tool such as Microsoft’s 3D Builder: [image] and re-saved as a binary STL which will then import as expected: body_binary.stl (1.8 MB) [image]

If it still doesn’t work, upload here or send to support@carbide3d.com and we will look into it with you.

[FlyingWoodChips (Chester McFarland)]

Thanks Will, I can open the .stl file on my Mac, once open, I can rotate it to any position. So that appears ok. Just cannot get it to import into CC Pro. I will send to support.

thanks again for your help.
Chip