1. Unpack the model's archive using 7zip, WinRAR, WinZip or whatever utility you prefer.
2. In the unpacked folder, locate two (2) folders labeled "models" and "materials".
3. Highlight BOTH folders by clicking on one of them then holding CTRL, click the other folder.
4. Right-click on one of the folders (doesn't matter which one) and select "Copy".
5. Navigate to your SFM install, typically it's in
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\SourceFilmmaker\game\
and make a new folder. Name it whatever you wish, just do not use special characters.
6. Right-click on the new folder and select "Paste".

NOTE: The usermod folder IS NOT the best place to put your downloaded models. The usermod folder contains files key to the smooth operation of SFM, and if these files are accidentally overwritten or deleted, this can break your SFM install.


1. Open your Steam Library and make sure to select 'Software'. SFM is NOT a game and will not show up in the 'Games' list.
2. Click on Source Filmmaker and click Launch, then select 'Launch SDK'.
3. A window will open, near the bottom, select 'Edit Search Paths for Selected Mod'.
4. Another window will open with a list of folders in it with white checkboxes on the left side.
5. Near the bottom of this list, you should see the folder that you just made, tick the checkbox next to it.
6. Close everything out.

You are now done and have a model installed in SFM, open SFM, find your new model and enjoy!!

As always, if you have any questions or comments, feel free to post them below...

Here's a couple of useful guides related to this one by Pte Jack...

Sometimes when you install a model, the textures don't show up, all you get is this pink and black checkerboard thing. This can be caused by several different things, but mainly it means that the textures aren't where SFM is looking for them.
This guide will show you how to find and fix these issues:
https://steamhost.cn/steamcommunity_com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1226795892

There are times when installing a model from the internet, that the model, for whatever reason, doesn't "show" correctly. This is usually due to the materials for that model not being located correctly for SFM. This guide shows you how to fix this issue:
https://steamhost.cn/steamcommunity_com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1226526147

You've found the perfect model, but can't use it because you can see right through it!
This guide by Pte Jack will show you how to fix this issue:
https://steamhost.cn/steamcommunity_com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=1368443207