CAD tip # 11387:

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How to edit large STL files in Fusion 360?

If you have a STL file with a 3D model e.g. for 3D printing and you need to perform a small or large correction of this model, you can use the CAD application Autodesk Fusion 360.

Start a new empty model (project) and invoke the command INSERT > Insert Mesh to import a STL or OBJ file.
In Options (the gear icon, bottom-right), choose "Do not capture design history".
Use the command MODIFY > Mesh > Mesh to BRep. This tool may report the error message: " This mesh contains a large number of facets. Conversion aborted." In such case, use the tool Decimate in Autodesk ReMake or Edit > Reduce (Shift+r) in Autodesk MeshMixer and simplify your model - decrease the number of surface facets - the maximum number is about 10-13 thousands faces. Then re-read the simplified model.
You can then edit the model converted to BRep using the Fusion 360 tools and then export the model back to STL.

You can also perform the simplification (reducing) of faces (triangles) directly in Fusion 360 - see this conversion of a complex mesh to an editable BPrep solid:

Fusion360

*CAD

12.4.2017 48387×

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applies to: Fusion 360 360 ·

See also:
Tip 14472:	Overview of CAD formats supported in Inventor 2026 (import/export/AnyCAD).
Tip 14367:	What CAD formats are supported in the free Personal (hobby) license of Autodesk Fusion?
Tip 14240:	How to simplify an uneven profile imported via DXF into Autodesk Fusion?
Tip 14075:	Overview of CAD formats supported in Inventor 2025 (import/export/AnyCAD).
Tip 13559:	How to find the number of faces of a 3D mesh object in Fusion 360?

Selected tip: Making Civil3D DWG files smaller for archiving and e-mail posting.

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