The 3DS format is a legacy Autodesk 3ds Max format, still widely used in architecture and modeling for its broad compatibility. Converting 3DS to STL lets you prepare your models for 3D printing with any slicer.
Launch Eyemesh and open your 3DS file: drag and drop the file into the window, or use File > Open (Cmd+O). If the model uses textures, place them in the same folder as the .3ds file and open the full folder.
Inspect your model in the 3D view. Check that textures and materials display correctly. If textures are missing, use the Texture Manager to reassign them manually.
Click the export icon in the toolbar, select the STL format, choose a save location, and confirm. The STL file is ready to open in your slicer for 3D printing.
3DS is the historical format of Autodesk 3ds Max. Although old, it remains popular in architecture, interior design, and modeling. It stores geometry, materials, and texture information. Limitations include a maximum of 65,536 vertices per mesh and no support for complex animations.
STL (Stereolithography) is the standard format for 3D printing. It describes only the surface geometry as a triangulated mesh, with no color or texture. Compatible with all slicers (Cura, PrusaSlicer, BambuStudio, OrcaSlicer), it is the most common format for additive manufacturing.
Download Eyemesh on the Mac App Store and convert your 3DS files to STL in just a few clicks.