How to Get 3D Models from Minecraft Mods: Your Fast-Track Guide to Accessing and Using Minecraft Mod Models

Minecraft is adored by millions for its endless creativity, with mods providing an even wider range of building materials, items, and environments. But if you’re a designer, content creator, or hobbyist looking to get 3D models from Minecraft mods—perhaps to use in renders, animations, or as references—there are a few streamlined approaches. First, determine what you want to extract: blocks, items, or even entities. Then, choose a tool compatible with your version of Minecraft and mod loader (Forge, Fabric, etc.), such as Mineways or Blockbench. Importantly, always respect licensing—for both Minecraft and any modded content.

Here’s a step-by-step workflow:

1. Identify the Model Location: Mods generally store models within their JAR files under folders like assets/modid/models or assets/modid/textures. You will want the relevant .json or .obj files.
2. Extract Files: Use an archive utility (7-zip or WinRAR) to open the mod’s JAR. Find and extract the desired model or texture files.
3. Convert Files: Most Minecraft models use JSON for block and item geometry, but some mods (or tools) export to OBJ or even GLB/GLTF. Use a tool like Blockbench to open, edit, or convert these files to standard 3D formats (OBJ, FBX, GLTF).
4. Alternative—Use a World Exporter: If you built something modded in-game and want the whole scene, use Mineways or similar tools that export Minecraft worlds to 3D models. These programs typically read your world save (be sure to have the mods loaded), allowing export as OBJ or STL.
5. Import Models into Your 3D Workflow: Once converted, bring your models into your preferred design or rendering software, like Blender or 3DS Max, for further editing and visualization.

As a designer, I often rely on extracting and converting these Minecraft models to draft interior layouts or create visualization references, since the pixelated forms can serve as a unique stylistic base. For cases where I’m ideating a new space, integrating such blocky assets directly into a 3D floor planner can accelerate sketching and spatial arrangement without sacrificing creativity.

Tips 1:

Always check copyright and usage terms—some mod developers allow fair-use of their assets, others do not. When in doubt, reach out for permission, especially for commercial projects.

FAQ

Q: Can I use Minecraft mod 3D models for commercial projects?

A: It depends on the license set by the mod developer. Many mod assets are for personal use only; always check or contact the creator before commercial use.

Q: What format are Minecraft mod models saved in?

A: By default, vanilla Minecraft uses JSON, while some mods provide OBJ, GLTF, or custom formats. You can convert or edit these using 3D tools like Blockbench.

Q: What's the easiest way to export a whole modded Minecraft build to 3D?

A: Use a world exporter like Mineways, run your world with the necessary mods, and export the selected area as a 3D model (OBJ/STL).

Q: Are there risks in using modded models?

A: Yes—some mods may have restrictive licenses, and compatibility with exporters varies. Be prepared for manual adjustments and always verify rights before sharing or selling related work.

Q: Can I use Minecraft models for interior design projects?

A: Absolutely. Designers sometimes use Minecraft block models as visual references or to populate conceptual 3D floor planners for ideation and sketches.