Why an STL needs help to get a texture
- STL stores triangles only. It has no colour, no materials and no UV map, so there is nowhere in the file to keep a texture.
- The studio makes a UV map for your STL automatically, then the AI paints into it.
- The textured result downloads as a GLB (shape plus texture) or as a PNG texture. An STL cannot hold the colour, so it is not offered as a download.
- For colour 3D printing, turn a coloured model into filament colours with the multicolour 3D printing tool, which exports a 3MF.
How to texture a STL file with AI
- 1
Upload your STL
Drop the .stl file (up to 60 MB). New UVs are made automatically, because STL has none.
- 2
Describe the look
Write what the surface should be, like "weathered bronze statue", or pick a style.
- 3
Paint with AI
Auto paints the model from 4, 6 or 8 sides. Turn it to repaint any spot.
- 4
Fix and finish
Heal seams and paint by hand for free, then make PBR maps if you need them.
- 5
Download
Get a textured GLB or the texture PNG. Use the GLB in Blender, a game engine or the web.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. STL only stores the shape, so the texture is saved in a GLB (or as a PNG with the UV map in the GLB). Your STL geometry is kept exactly as it was.
No. STL files have no UV map, so the studio makes one for you when you upload.
Download the textured GLB, then open the multicolour 3D printing tool: it turns the colours into a few filament colours and exports a 3MF for multi-colour printers.
No. This paints colour onto the model. To add a raised pattern to the shape itself, use the STL surface texture tool.
No. The shape, polygon count and size stay exactly the same. The AI only paints the texture on the surface.
Each AI view costs 2 credits, and an Auto texture paints 4 views for 8 credits (6 or 8 views for hidden areas cost 12 or 16). New accounts get free credits to start. The Heal and Paint brushes and the PBR maps are free.