Lithophane Maker
Turn a photo into a 3D-printable lithophane STL right in your browser. Nothing is uploaded.
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Drop a photo here and I’ll make a lithophane.
PNG · JPG · WebP · the first run loads the 3D engine once
How to use
- Drop a photo in, or tap the box to choose one. High-contrast, well-lit pictures make the clearest lithophanes.
- Set the panel’s max width and the thinnest/thickest the print should be, drag Detail for more or less surface relief, and keep “Invert (for backlit)” on so dark areas print thicker and block more light.
- Press Download STL to save the model, then 3D print it standing up — thin layers, about 3 perimeters and no infill — and light it from behind to reveal the image.
FAQ
What is a lithophane?
A lithophane is a thin panel whose thickness varies with the brightness of an image. On its own it looks like a faint relief, but with a light behind it the thick parts block more light and the thin parts glow, so the picture appears. This tool builds one as a solid, watertight STL you can 3D print.
How should I 3D print it?
Print it standing upright (the image facing you), with a fine layer height for smooth tones, about 3 perimeters / wall loops and 0% infill — the varying wall thickness is what makes the picture. White or natural filament works best, and you light it from behind once printed. Keep the minimum thickness around 0.8 mm so the bright areas still hold light.
Is my photo uploaded anywhere?
No. The image is read and turned into geometry entirely in your browser — it never leaves your device, so the tool works offline and stays private. The 3D engine used for the preview loads once on first use and is then cached; the STL export itself needs no internet at all.