How STL Labs creates stunning 3D printed Scale Cars
with colorFabb
There’s nothing better than someone who is fully dedicated to their passion. Guido from STL Labs designs and 3D prints impressive scale cars that anyone can build and customize themselves.
We asked STL Labs how his business began and where it all started.
"STL Labs was born from a passion for 3D printing and cars. It started in 2019 as a hobby project, when I teamed up with two classmates (who also had 3D printers) to create an Instagram account where we shared our prints. Even before Instagram Reels became popular, our posts were getting a lot of attention.
Over time, my classmates stopped, but I kept going. With my background in engineering and my passion for supercars, hypercars and motorsport (Formula 1 and GT3 racing), I decided to design my own car scale models, since there were very few high-quality, printable models available. My first model was the iconic 1988 McLaren MP4/4, driven by my hero Ayrton Senna.
When I shared photos, I quickly got requests to download the model. That’s when the idea came to offer my designs online. Large scale models are often extremely expensive, but with 3D printing, I make them accessible. These days, I design a new car every month, and some of my Instagram videos reach millions of views."
How he does it, How you print it
STL Labs designs and prints all his vehicles himself. His scale cars are accessible to anyone with a 3D printer: download the model, print the parts, and assemble them like a kit. You choose your own color, wheels, and add extra details like seatbelts, pedals, and accessories. His designs aren’t tied to one brand or team. Thanks to 3D printing, Guido can quickly prototype and make his files as user-friendly as possible so that anyone can print them at home with ease.
Guido’s favorite filaments
For his scale models, Guido mainly works with our PLA High Speed Pro. Since his creations are display pieces, he chooses reliable filament that ensures a clean and professional finish. With our Color on Demand service, he can create unique colors, exactly matching a specific car or racing team. For carbon parts, Guido uses our semi-matte black filament, which provides a beautiful texture and reduces visible layer lines. He prints the tires with Varioshore TPU, whose matte, foam effect creates a realistic look and feel.
Review colorFabb filament
“I’ve known colorFabb for a long time: Ruud (founder of colorFabb) lives on my street, and I even worked there as a teenager during the holidays. When I bought my first printer, I got filament from Ruud, and it worked so well that I’ve used it ever since. I’ve never had any issues, and it’s great to pick up locally and get quick help.
Later, my friends and I wanted to make a 1:5 scale Formula 1 car in Red Bull colors, but that deep blue with a hint of purple didn’t exist. Together with Ruud, we turned to Color on Demand. We made one car for ourselves and one for colorFabb, which still stands in their hallway today. The best part: the color came straight out of the printer, no sanding or painting needed."
Top 3 STL files
Download & print it yourself
Simply browse STL Labs’ collection to find a model that suits your interests. Once you've made your selection, purchase and download the model files. You’ll receive these via email, so you can print the model yourself.
This approach gives you complete creative freedom: choose your own materials, colors, and details to customize the model exactly to your taste.
Discover more about STL Labs
STL labs is most active on Instagram, where he regularly shares new stories featuring upcoming projects, behind-the-scenes content, and Q&A’s. You’ll also find videos of all the models and the process behind them here: @STLLabs
STL Labs is also on TikTok and YouTube, where most of the videos are reposted from Instagram:
• TikTok: @STL.Labs
• YouTube: @STLLabs
Not in the mood for watching videos, but just want to browse or download the models?
You can find them here:
• Printables
• Cults3D
For extra information: www.stl-labs.com
