> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mrwheel-docs.gitbook.io/yappgenerator_en/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mrwheel-docs.gitbook.io/yappgenerator_en/generating-stl-file-from-kicad.md).
# Generating STL file from KiCad
Making a projectbox with all the holes in the right place is quite a challenge.
Luckily for the makers that use **`KiCad`** as a PCB making tool there is a rescue!
### Tools needed
If not already done you first have to install the latest version of [FreeCAD](https://www.freecad.org/).\
Then you have to install the **`KiCadStepUp`** tool with the **`Addon Manager`**.
### Creating a STEP file with KiCad
Start the **`PCB Editor`**
From the **`File`** menu select **`Export -> STEP`**
In the popUp **`[Browse]`** to the map where you want to save the STEP file and click on **`[Export]`**.
### Start FreeCAD
Click on the select box ..
.. and select the **`KiCadStepUp`** tool
Go to **`File->Open`** and select the STEP file from the KiCad Export
.. and click on **`[Open]`**
After a while you see the result of this import
Now all you have to do is **`Export`** this file
Select "**`STL Mesh`**" as type ..
.. and click on **`[Save]`**
The result is a nice STL file
## Use this STL file with the YAPPgenerator
Add the following code to the beginning of your **`.scad`** file:
```
myPcb = "./STL/DSMRloggerESP32_PCB.stl";
if (true)
{
translate([42,43,4.6])
{
rotate([0,0,90]) color("darkgray") import(myPcb);
}
}
```
**`myPcb`** has to point to the generated **`.stl`** file\
With **`translate()`** and **`rotate()`** you can place the **`.stl`** file to the exact location of your projectbox. This is a bit fiddling in the beginning but once set it does not change anymore.