How many 3D models can I import into a VCarve Pro job, and can I use 3D clipart from the software maker?

The rule

Per job, VCarve imports:

• V3M and 3DClip clipart: from the software maker's clipart library, Design & Make, and other vendors selling V3M models
• ONE third-party 3D model: a single STL, OBJ, or SKP file (the comparison page lists "Single Model" for VCarve Desktop and Pro)

So you can build a whole scene from purchased clipart pieces (stack, arrange, overlap them freely), but only one third-party mesh file can join the scene. Aspire does not have this third-party limit.

Working within the limit

1. Buy V3M versions when the vendor offers both. V3M files are made for this software and are often smaller than the equivalent STL.
2. Merge STLs before import: combine multiple STLs into one file in free mesh software (for example Blender or Microsoft 3D Builder), then import the combined file as your one third-party model.
3. Position your single STL first, then dress the design with V3M clipart around it.

Pro tips

• The imported third-party model converts to a component on import. The one-model limit applies at import time, not to the number of components in the file.
• Rotary jobs can also import external models in VCarve Pro (see the rotary STL entry).