# tracing an object imported as STL

**URL:** <https://discourse.shapr3d.com/t/tracing-an-object-imported-as-stl/32064>\
**Category:** Modeling Questions\
**Created:** [May 22, 2024, 5:14am UTC](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/t/tracing-an-object-imported-as-stl/32064 "2024-05-22T05:14:51Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![JOEMO](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/e9bcb4/32.png) [@JOEMO](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/u/JOEMO)\
**Post date:** [May 22, 2024, 5:14am UTC](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/t/tracing-an-object-imported-as-stl/32064/1 "2024-05-22T05:14:51Z")

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Hello,

Im sure this subject has been discussed before but I am unable to find it probably due to not using the correct search terminology.

I exported a project as an STL file to print. i want to modify the project but lost access to the original so i only have the STL file.

I would like to trace the object (thats a mesh body) as close as possible to a 2D sketch as i from there i can extrude it and quickly get to where I need to be.

Thanks  
Joe

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<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![Shaun](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/flex002/user_avatar/discourse.shapr3d.com/shaun/32/18786_2.png) [@Shaun](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/u/Shaun)\
**Post date:** [May 22, 2024, 9:41am UTC](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/t/tracing-an-object-imported-as-stl/32064/2 "2024-05-22T09:41:57Z")

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Hi Joemo,

This is possible but the difficulty depends on how intricate your model is.

One technique I use is to double tap flat edges and draw a rectangle on them, or trace the side if possible. Once you do this with a couple of sides it’s easy to click on both to see the distance between them.

Organic shapes can be a pain but if you’ve already made it once then there’s no reason you can’t do it again.

I guess you’ll have to import the stl and give it a go. If you’re able to share the stl or just take some pictures then maybe people can advise further.