If you can't find the thing you want to print already online, you can always create it yourself! The lab offers several options, from beginner to advanced.
If you simply want to modify an existing file by cutting in half, hollowing it out, or perhaps combine two files together, the simplest way will be with Microsoft's 3D Builder tool. You can find a basic overview here. 3D builder can also correct file errors that may be present in .STL files downloaded off the internet. It can also enhance the smoothness of files, as seen here with this Stetson.
To create a new object from scratch, you will have to use a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) program. People new to CAD will want to start with Autodesk Tinkercad, a web-based program that's free to sign up for and use. Click Create a Personal Account to get started.
You can use the built-in tutorials to learn how to build objects out of primitive shapes and negative spaces, and even import your own custom shapes drawn as black and white .SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic) files.
For more advanced CAD users, all of the Autodesk suite is available for free via Autodesk for Education. Just verify your Stetson email address and you will be able to use everything from Fusion360 to Inventor at no cost to you. These are the programs professional product designers use to create their models.
Finally, there are some more unique utilities that can be used to create custom objects. Meshmixer, installed on the Innovation Lab PCs, provides a clay-like experience for more freeform objects, while resources like the lithophane maker can be used to convert images into 3D formats where the thickness of the object matches the brightness of the image.
