PIC2LAYERS GUIDES
How to Turn an Image into a 3D Print
A practical workflow for converting a photo or illustration into a shallow, layered multicolor print.
1. Pick an image that will survive printing
Start with a subject you can recognize at a small size. Strong shapes and contrast generally work better than very fine gradients or hairline details. Crop out distractions before uploading. JPG, PNG and WebP are accepted, with a 20 MB upload limit. The app processes a scaled working copy, so increasing the source resolution indefinitely will not create infinitely fine printed detail.
2. Set the printed size and colors
Choose the image width, from 30 to 250 mm, and check the derived height. Select up to eight colors. Preview the detected palette, then replace bands with the real filament colors you own. A smaller palette often gives clearer bands and fewer filament changes. Dark-to-light is the default order; change it when test prints or known filament behavior suggest another stack.
3. Match your layer height
Choose a print layer height of 0.08, 0.12 or 0.16 mm and an appropriate thickness per color band. Use the same height in the slicer. Inspect whether details remain printable at your nozzle and size. The model has a common base; isolated-looking color regions above it are supported by the lower print, not separate objects to glue.
4. Export and verify
Download a direct 3MF when you want editable color parts, or STL when you plan to add the swaps using the provided guide. The optional ZIP adds a fitted frame and bezel. Open the file in your slicer, check dimensions and the color assignment for every part, and inspect the sliced layers. Create your layered model or read the technique guide for more context.