Is this 3D model free to download?

Yes, Thaumatrope is free to download from Thingiverse. Open it in the free Thinger app, or use the "Download from Thingiverse" link to open the original listing by the creator.

Where do I download the STL file?

The download is hosted by Thingiverse. Use the "Download from Thingiverse" link on this page to open the original listing and grab the file, or save it to your print queue in the free Thinger app.

Designed by WillemvD, published on Thingiverse. Please credit the creator when sharing your print.

Can I print this at home?

Yes. This is a printable 3D model intended for home FDM and resin printers. Check the original listing for suggested print settings.

Thaumatrope 3D printable model by WillemvD

Thaumatrope

Source: Thingiverse by WillemvD

The Thaumatrope is a free printable 3D model from Thingiverse by WillemvD. The most primitive way to make an animation is the thaumatrope. You can download the STL file from the original listing below and print it at home.

Open in Thinger (free) Download from Thingiverse

36 saves Source: Thingiverse Updated 2026-10-11 License: CC-BY · commercial OK Category: Toys & Games

Tags: Thaumatrope

About this model

The most primitive way to make an animation is the thaumatrope. Long before the zoetrope was introduced and much longer before cinema and television got popular. But for kids it is still fun. In this thing we will improve the classic thaumatrope with special effect. We do that with a microswitch and some leds.. Every time the rotating disk is touching the microswitch, the leds will flash. This results in a much sharper and stable picture. A small geared DC motor (12V-1200RPM) drives the disk, which has a marker indicating the exact bottom position. The motor runs nice on 9 volts.The motorshaft can be 2 or 3mm in diameter. For both options a fitting disk is attached. Print multiple disks, so the pictures (widely available on internet) can be prepared on forehand. A disk is quickly installed…

Frequently asked questions

Is this 3D model free to download?: Yes. Thaumatrope is free to download from Thingiverse. Open it in the free Thinger app, or use the "Download from Thingiverse" link above to open the original listing.
Where is the STL hosted?: The download is hosted by Thingiverse, not by Thinger. We link you directly to the original listing by WillemvD.
Who made this model?: Designed by WillemvD, published on Thingiverse. Please credit the creator when sharing your print online.
Can I print this at home?: Yes. This model is intended for home FDM and resin 3D printers. Check the original listing for suggested print settings like layer height and supports.