QGIS plugin · GPL free software

Convert DEM to STL with QGIS.

Create terrain models for 3D printing. Adjust the area, scale and vertical exaggeration. PRO adds interactive editing and a 3D preview.

Compare Free and PRO How to generate an STL

From DEM to STL

How to generate a terrain model in QGIS

Illustration of a greyscale elevation raster. — Original DEMSTL model3D print

Illustration of the digital terrain model with a square base. — Original DEMSTL model3D print

Define the area

Select the DEM and define the extent of the terrain you want to export.

Configure the model

Adjust the scale, vertical exaggeration and base height.

Export the STL

Generate the terrain STL file to prepare it for 3D printing.

DEMto3D Free and PRO

Two versions for converting DEM to STL

Both generate terrain models from QGIS. PRO adds interactive area editing, a 3D preview and additional export options.

DEMto3D

Free

The essential functions for generating STL files from a DEM.

Available in the QGIS plugin manager
Define the area using coordinates
Adjust scale, vertical exaggeration and base
Export to STL

Install from QGIS

DEMto3D

PRO

More control over the terrain area and model geometry.

Interactive area editing and rotation
3D preview before export
Faster STL generation
Sloped side walls for thermoforming moulds

Compare all features

Applications

Terrain models for 3D printing and thermoforming

3D printing terrain

Generate scale models for relief maps, outreach, exhibitions and decorative pieces.

Oblique view of a terrain model with a base and vertical walls for 3D printing — 3D view of a terrain model with a base and vertical walls for 3D printing.

Moulds for thermoformed maps

PRO lets you generate models with sloped side walls to ease demoulding when producing relief maps.

Oblique view of a terrain mould with sloped side walls for thermoforming — 3D view of a mould with sloped side walls for thermoforming, generated with PRO.

The community

User feedback

Support the maintenance and development of DEMto3D

Purchasing PRO helps sustain the project and fund time for maintenance and the development of new features. In return, you get PRO’s additional features and its source code under the GPL.

DEMto3D PRO

Full version and source code

Download the plugin and its source code in a ZIP file.

9,90 €one-time payment

Use the purchased version with no time or device limits. No subscription or online activation.

Get PRO

The purchase includes the acquired version and its bug fixes. It does not include new features from later versions.

Read the purchase terms.

Questions before you choose?

Review the differences and installation process for each edition.

Read the FAQ