Image to STL — Printable Relief and Flat Lithophane Generator
Convert your image into a closed, printable height-relief or flat lithophane STL with real dimensions, base thickness and a mesh preview.
Relief Foundry
Choose your inputs, or load the working example to explore the result. Your files stay on this device.
Your inputs
Required fields are marked with an asterisk.
Your result
Review your output, then save it to your device.
Make the next step clear.
Your findings, assumptions and next steps will appear here after you run the check.
Relief Foundry · https://relief.kitforma.com/ · KitForma
Runs locally in your browser
Download actual usable output
Explicit assumptions and supported inputs
Understand the evidence.
Focused guides explain the rules, the edge cases and the checks worth doing before you act.
What an image-to-STL relief actually creates
A height field is useful without pretending to recover hidden geometry.
Read the guide ↗Field guide / 02Choose useful flat-lithophane thickness
Control light transmission with a deliberate print test.
Read the guide ↗Field guide / 03Balance relief detail, mesh size and printer capability
Use a bounded height grid without confusing triangle count with fidelity.
Read the guide ↗Before you start
Does this make a full 3D model from a photo?
No. It produces a 2.5D height relief or flat lithophane with a solid base.
Is the STL watertight?
The generated mesh is checked for one connected, closed, consistently oriented shell before export.
Are model units included in STL?
STL has no unit field. Coordinates are generated in millimeters; choose millimeters when importing.
What is the maximum image detail?
The height grid is bounded to 96 samples per side to keep generation and mesh validation local and responsive.
Can I guarantee the lithophane’s brightness?
No. Light transmission depends on material, thickness, slicer settings and the actual backlight. Test a small sample.
Sources & assumptions
Formats, algorithms and supported features are documented below. Check the stated scope and inspect your output before using it.
- Image-to-STL workflow ↗
Height-based image conversion and print dimensions.
- Prusa lithophane workflow ↗
Material, orientation and printing considerations for lithophanes.
Reviewed 2026-10-17. Read our methodology or report an issue.