Step 1
Confirm the workflow need
Make sure the real need is private library management, not just generic storage on your own hardware.
Hosting and ownership
Self-hosted STL file library software for users who want more deployment control
Some users want a private STL library and also want to run the stack themselves. That is a valid need, but it should be framed as a deployment choice inside the product category rather than as the full identity of the product.
STL Shelf can be self-hosted because it is open source, while the hosted version managed by us remains the easier default path.
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 choose the right path
Step 2
Use hosted when simplicity matters
The hosted version removes operational overhead and is the recommended choice for most users.
Step 3
Use self-hosted when control matters
Self-hosting makes sense when deployment control, internal policy, or infrastructure ownership is the priority.
What self-hosting does not change
- STL Shelf remains a private model library, not an infrastructure project.
- The same tags, versions, preview, and retrieval workflow still apply.
- The hosted service remains the recommended choice unless control is required.
Choose based on operational responsibility
- Open-source credibility.
- Ownership and deployment choice.
- Hosted by us as the easier path.
- Private library workflow as the main product value.
Frequently asked questions
Can I self-host STL Shelf as an STL file library?
Yes. STL Shelf is open source and can be self-hosted, while the hosted version managed by us remains the easier option for most users.
Should I self-host or use the hosted version?
Use hosted when you want the workflow without running infrastructure. Self-host when you specifically need operational control.
Does self-hosting change what the product does?
No. The product remains private 3D model library software. Only the deployment model changes.
Is STL Shelf open source?
Yes.
Choose self-hosting when it serves ownership, not as a default reflex
Use the hosted path for speed or the open-source path for control while keeping the same core library workflow.