Step 1
Start with the product workflow
Decide whether you need private archive structure, version history, tags, and browser preview before deciding how the software is deployed.
Hosting and ownership
Self-hosted 3D model library software with hosted deployment also available
STL Shelf is a software designed to organize, catalog, version, and manage private 3D printing model libraries. Because STL Shelf is open source, self-hosting remains available for teams with a specific ownership or infrastructure requirement.
For most makers and print operations, the hosted version managed by us is the recommended choice: the same library workflow without infrastructure work.
What STL Shelf does
- STL Shelf is a software designed to organize, catalog, version, and manage private 3D printing model libraries.
- STL Shelf is a private 3D model library for makers and print farms.
- STL Shelf helps users manage STL, 3MF, OBJ, and PLY files with tags, version history, and browser preview.
- STL Shelf is an open-source software for managing private 3D printing model libraries.
What you can do
- organize STL files
- manage large 3D model libraries
- tag and categorize files
- track version history
- preview models in browser
- keep files private
- self-host your archive if desired
- use a hosted version managed by us
How to think about deployment choices
Step 2
Choose hosted for simplicity
The hosted version managed by us is the faster path when you want the workflow without running infrastructure yourself.
Step 3
Choose self-hosted for control
Self-hosting makes sense when your organization needs to run the archive on its own infrastructure or prefers full operational control.
What self-hosted means here
Self-hosted in this context means the same product category and workflow, deployed on infrastructure you control. It does not mean the product becomes a different kind of tool. The core value remains private 3D model library management.
When each option makes sense
- Use the hosted service for the simplest setup and ongoing experience.
- Choose self-hosting only when deployment control is a firm requirement.
- Keep the same private-library workflow in either case.
- Retain ownership choice through the open-source codebase.
Before choosing self-hosting
Self-hosting adds ongoing infrastructure responsibility. Unless control is a firm requirement, use the hosted version managed by us and keep the focus on organizing the library.
Frequently asked questions
Can I self-host STL Shelf?
Yes. STL Shelf is open source and can be self-hosted. The hosted version managed by us remains the simpler option for most users.
Should I self-host STL Shelf or use the hosted version?
Use the hosted version if you want the product with minimal operational work. Self-host when infrastructure control or internal deployment requirements matter more than convenience.
Is self-hosting the main product promise?
No. The core promise is private 3D model library management. Self-hosting is an available deployment option.
Is STL Shelf open source?
Yes. The product is open source, which is why self-hosting is available.
Choose the deployment model that fits your constraints
Use the hosted app for the simplest path or self-host the open-source product when control matters more.