Skip to content
3D Print Timelapse logo3D Print Timelapse

3D Print Timelapse Generator

Preview an STL, GLB, or G-code layer by layer, place it in your own photo or fixed-camera scene, and save a composed PNG.

Open the preview editor

The public preview and PNG saving are free. Accounts, automatic slicing, payments, and MP4 export are not open yet.

See an actual export

This clip was exported from 3D Print Timelapse using the multicolor 3DBenchy model. Watch the layers build up inside a real-photo background.

How to make a 3D print timelapse from a file

Upload, set up your scene, choose the effect, and save a PNG preview.

Use STL or GLB for a visual layer reveal, or upload existing text G-code to preview extrusion paths.

Start with a model

Start with STL, GLB, or G-code

Preview a model with the visual layer effect, or upload text G-code to inspect its extrusion paths.

STL

Preview the model shape

Choose one color for an STL and preview its layered visual appearance. Automatic slicing is planned for a later launch.

GLB

A model with color and materials

Use a GLB with embedded resources to retain its colors and materials in the visual preview.

G-code

Your existing extrusion paths

Upload text G-code to animate its extrusion moves on its own. Use tool or filament colors, or choose one color. Pairing it with a separate model is not supported.

STL color is not imported. 3MF and binary G-code are not supported in the public preview. Automatic slicing is also unavailable.

Real G-code paths or a smooth layer reveal?

Printing paths and surface appearance serve different shots.

Real G-code paths

Animate the extrusion moves in a sliced file. Use this mode when layer order and toolpaths matter. The visible surface depends on the sliced paths, layer height, and line width.

Animation source
Text G-code uploaded from your own file.
Best for
Showing the deposition order, individual layers, and printing paths.
Surface
Follows the sliced paths, so layer height and line width affect the result.
Visual appearance

Reveal the model layer by layer while retaining more surface detail. Use this mode when the finished appearance matters more than showing the exact toolpath.

Animation source
A layered visual effect built from the model geometry.
Best for
Product videos where the final appearance matters most.
Surface
Adjust the layer count and surface lines, including a smooth finish.

Color mapping changes the preview appearance, not the printer's material instructions.

Match the print to your photo's perspective

Adjust the camera angle and field of view, then move, rotate, and scale the model onto the photographed surface. Match the light and contact shadow by eye.

Workshop table used as the background for the 3D Print Timelapse example
The example’s background image. Add the model and match its perspective in the editor.

Camera perspective

Adjust the viewing angle, field of view, and tilt for a low shot, a desktop view, or an overhead shot.

Position and scale

Move, rotate, and resize the model to place it on the photographed surface.

Background and light

Use a photo or fixed-camera video, then adjust brightness and choose a lighting preset.

Base and shadow

Place the model directly in the scene or on a print bed, and adjust the shadow strength.

MP4 export is planned

The planned export supports landscape, portrait, and square MP4 output. It is not enabled in the public preview.

16:9

Landscape

9:16

Portrait

1:1

Square

Resolution
720p / 1080p
Duration
8 / 12 / 15 seconds
Video file
MP4 · H.264
Frame rate
30 FPS

For now, use the editor to preview the scene and save a PNG frame. Account history and MP4 encoding will open later.

The public preview is free

Preview scenes and save PNG frames for free. MP4 export, accounts, and payments are not open yet.

Free preview

Free

Load a model, set up your shot, and save a PNG frame.

Automatic slicing and MP4 export are not enabled yet.

Planned MP4 export

1 not available yet

The public preview does not use credits. Preview the scene and save a PNG for free; accounts, payments, and MP4 export will open later.

5 exports20 exports50 exports
Pricing

Payments are not open yet. These are planned pack sizes; prices have not been set.

Before you start

Make a timelapse with your own model

Start with the example, then add your model and background. Preview the layers and save a composed PNG.

Open the preview editorPricing