3d Printer Design Programs

• 3d Printing Patterns Free
• 3d Printing Design Programs

I bet Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%, the 3D printed marathon shoes, must've motivated you to build something cool. It's only wise that you would want to try a 3D printing software before investing in a 3D printer. However, choosing a good free 3D printing software can prove to be a hassle. There are too many options where each caters to a diverse range of applications.

To make things a bit simpler, we've compiled a list of the best 3D printing software for beginners. But before we take a look at the list, there's one thing you should know. If you're already using Photoshop, then you can get started right away. Photoshop also lets you create 3D models from scratch and print them using services like Shapeways 3D.

Free 3D printing software helps you design and slice your objects without a cost. A free 3D printing software is a program that helps you design, slice or process your STL files to produce a 3D printed object without any cost. This page aims to give you a list of 3D printing software without charge. Whether you are a beginner or expert 3D printing professional, there is something for you. Using the right CAD software will make your 3D printing project easier. The right software to use will depend on what you are trying to print. 3D Design Software. There are two main categories of 3D design software: CAD software and 3D modeling software. Tinkercad is an easy-to-use 3D CAD design tool. Quickly turn your idea into a CAD model for a 3D printer with Tinkercad, and upload directly to MyMiniFactory! Alternatively, 3D modeling programs allow you to render 3D printing files such as STL and OBJ files. Thus, you can easily view and tweak existing 3D printable files using a 3D design app. Therefore, you should absolutely add a 3D modeling program to your arsenal of 3D printing software. TinkerCad - Best 3D Modeling Software for Beginners. Tinkercad is a free, easy-to-use app for 3D design, electronics, and coding.

1. TinkerCAD

Kicking off the list is TinkerCAD, an online 3D design application which is perfect for beginners. It makes use of a simple block building concept, which essentially gives you access to basic shapes using which you can make your 3D models. That makes it an excellent tool for creating geometric designs.

TinkerCAD is fairly simple to get familiar with, and it also offers a bunch of amazing tutorials to speed up the learning process. Once you're done making a model, it lets you share or export the file easily.

And if you don't own a 3D printer, you can also make use of its third-party printing service integration to get your model delivered to your doorstep in no time.

2. Cura

Next up is Cura, another great 3D printing application for beginners from Ultimaker, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers. Logic pro 9 1 3. Unlike TinkerCAD, Cura is a slicing software for 3D printers which you can use to create a 3D model and slice it into layers as G-Code for the printer.

On top of that, you can also use Cura as a failsafe measure for your models. It can let you know if there are any problems with your model's structure that might cause issues with the printing.

That feature is a blessing for beginners since it ensures that you don't waste any printing material or time on creating models with structural issues.

3. Sculptris

While TinkerCAD is great for creating geometric designs, you should give Sculptris a shot if you want to create something a bit more organic. It's quite simple to use and offers a few key features that will help you create stunning 3D sculptures.

Working on Sculptris feels a lot like working with modeling clay, which makes it one of the best options if you're looking to create 3D models of things like cartoon characters; something that you can't do with TinkerCAD.

However, you'll only be able to create very basic 3D sculptures with Sculptris. You'll need to rely on other premium software like ZBrush to refine your designs later.

4. SketchUp

If 3D sculpting isn't really your cup of tea and you'd much prefer software that relies on line drawings to help you create a 3D model, then you should try using SketchUp. The software is suitable for most skill levels as it has a natural learning curve. And once you get going, the software offers a couple of advanced features as well in the paid version.

Much like TinkerCAD, SketchUp is useful for creating geometric designs. The software is most commonly used for designing architectural projects. So if that's what you're aiming for, then you just can't go wrong with it.

The best part about using SketchUP is that it's also available as a web app. You can work on your design on any system as long as you have it saved on your account.

5. Meshmixer

Meshmixer is another viable option if you're going to be sculpting organic models in 3D as it makes use of a triangular mesh to help you create smooth, even surfaces.

Just like Cura, the software also includes a feature which will help you check your model for holes and fix them in real-time.

Along with that, Meshmixer is also great for preparing your designs for 3D printing. It includes tools to slice the sculpture for the 3D printer, generate supports for structural integrity and even analyzes the design's fragility before you send it over for printing.

6. 3D Slash

Now if you're aiming for a retro, blocky aesthetic for your 3D models, then you should check out 3D Slash. The software allows you to upload your 3D model which it then breaks down into 3D building blocks.

You can then make any changes to the model using a variety of different tools. However, you will face some limitations in terms of functions in the free version of the software.

Along with the ability to pixelate just about any model, 3D Slash also offers a VR mode. You can use that mode to get a clear view of how your model will turn out using a VR headset. 3D Slash comes with one of the simplest user interfaces out of all the software on this list. That's what makes it a fantastic option for people of all ages.

7. FreeCAD

Rounding things off is FreeCAD, a parametric 3D modeling tool which will help you create precise geometric designs like replacement parts for your gadgets. The software isn't as good for creating new designs as it is for altering existing ones because of its parametric component.

Editing existing designs is fairly simple; you just need to head to your model history and change the parameters. It's that simple.

So if you're not hell-bent on creating your 3D models from scratch, then you should try FreeCAD. However, if you'd much rather create your custom model, then you'd be better off with either of the other options.

Create Amazing 3D Models

I hope you've got a fair idea of what you can achieve with these 3D printing software. How about you give them a shot and create your first 3D model? If you've tried your hand at 3D modeling, then I'd recommend to check out some tutorials these software have to offer to get started.

Just keep in mind that 3D printing can prove to be a pretty expensive hobby, so make sure you've inspected your designs thoroughly before you hit that print button. Why stop a shoe, when you can 3D print a dream home?

Next up: Looking to pick up another cool hobby? Check out the next article for some amazing Raspberry Pi projects that you can try.

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Which is the best CAD software for 3D printing? Whether you are a beginner or expert 3D printing professional, there is something for you.

Using the right CAD software will make your 3D printing project easier. The right software to use will depend on what you are trying to print.

3D Design Software

There are two main categories of 3D design software: CAD software and 3D modeling software.

Generally, CAD (Computer Aided Design) software is used when creating industrial objects, such as mechanical objects.

On the other hand, 3D modeling software is used in video games and films to make organic animations. However, the software can also be used to create 3D print models.

Using CAD Software for 3D Printing

CAD software are highly technical tools that are used in industrial design, architecture, aerospace engineering, mechanical design, and other fronts.

Typically, a CAD model contains data such as tolerance, dimensions, material properties, specific information about the manufacturing process. Some CAD applications also have advanced animation and rendering capabilities, which make it easier to visualize the final product.

When making 3D printable models with CAD software, you can save the prints in stereolithography file format (STL). This is the default CAD file format for additive manufacturing (AM).

However, there are also other file formats that are used for additive manufacturing.

Which CAD Software Should You Use?

When I started using CAD software with my first 3D printer, I had no previous experience of 3D modeling. If you are a beginner, you shouldn't really be scared of using CAD software. There are lots of tutorials on YouTube on how to use specific CAD software.

Over the years, I've become more experienced in 3D printing and have tested various CAD software programs. Here is an overview of the best CAD software for 3D printing, for both beginners and experts.

Best CAD Software for 3D Printing (For Both Beginners & Experts)

• 1. Blender

The first program I downloaded and familiarized myself with was Blender– a full-featured modeling program with a physics engine and animation capabilities. The software has hundreds of settings and menus, which you will not need as a beginner.

With Blender, as is the case with most CAD 3D software, you will need a powerful machine to run it. Getting started with the software is easy, thanks to the many tutorials on YouTube.

After days of watching tutorials, I was more than pleased with what I managed to accomplish in Blender.

This is an awesome program with many capabilities. However, the program requires some computer power and may not be the ultimate beginner program.

Watch Blender Tutorials

Level: Beginner

Cost: Free

• 2. TinkerCad

TinkerCad is a bit of a straight opposite of Blender: it's incredibly simple, educational and runs directly in your browser.

On the software, there's a menu full of basic shapes that you can puzzle together as if it were Lego. However, it is impossible to round off the corners of the shapes you create with the program.

TinkerCad makes it very easy to import vector graphics and make them three-dimensional and ready for printing.

However, the software is relatively limited. There is not a lot you can do with your 3D object with TinkerCad.

Watch TinkerCad Tutorials

Level: Beginner

Cost: Free

• 3. FreeCAD

FreeCAD is an open-source 3D modeling tool that allows you to design real-life objects of any size. The free software has parametric component, which makes editing easier. For instance, when you are creating your model, you can go to its history and change the parameters (color, dimensions, etc.) to get a different model.

I wouldn't recommend FreeCAD for professional 3D printing artists since it has just basic options. However, it is a good CAD software for beginners.

Watch FreeCAD Tutorials

Level: Beginner

Cost: Free

• 4. BlocksCAD

BlocksCAD is specifically designed for educational purposes. When you have mastered the software, you will be able to use OpenSCAD, a more advanced CAD program. With BlocksCAD, the commands for developing and transforming objects are represented by color blocks.

The software's code is compatible with OpenSCAD's code. Therefore, after developing your models on BlocksCAD, you can polish them up on OpenSCAD. You can export your models as either STL or OpenSCAD.

Check BlocksCAD YouTube channel to learn how to use the software.

Watch BlocksCAD Tutorials

Level: Beginner

Cost: Free

• 5. Creo

One of the market leaders in product design is Creo CAD software. This program has many functionalities, such as direct modeling, freestyle surface generation, motion generation, parametric generation, structural generation, thermal generation, among others.

With this complete additive manufacturing software, you can perform all your dimensioning calculations while modeling your final idea.

The software comes with a 30-day fully-functioning trial.

Watch Creo 3D Tutorials

Level: Intermediate

Cost: $2,310 for each license

• 6. Autodesk Fusion 360

Autodesk Fusion 360 is a popular CAD program designed forproduct design. On the software, there is a button that you can press to send your finished item directly to any 3D printer or slicer.

Autodesk Fusion 360 is quite an advanced CAD software. I did not really know how to use any of the features until I got a crash course in SolidWorks, a commercial program with similar features.

There are two modes to work in Fusion 360: a CAD mode with logic, and a modeling mode, where you can easily turn your stylish symmetrical model into organic models.

Fusion 360 offers a mix of features found in both Blender and TinkerCad. As a result, it is the software I prefer and use the most.

Watch Fusion 360 Tutorials

Level: Intermediate

Cost: $60 per month or free for students, educators & academic institutions

• 7. Solidworks

Solidworks is one of the best CAD software for professional 3D designers. This parametric feature-based software has various features, including design validation tools. The software is practical and detailed, which makes it an excellent choice for designing industrial objects.

Most CAD software mimics curves by gently inclining flat structures. However, Solidworks uses a system of NURBS, which allows it to create detailed curvatures. Moreover, the software using dimensional sketching rather than polygonal modeling. Dimensional sketching makes resizing less of a hassle.

However, Solidworks has limited support for importing .STL files. If you want to download and edit .STL files, you will need a different program.

Watch Solidworks Tutorials

Level: Professional

Cost: $3,995 for each license

• 8. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a professional 3D modeling software that is mainly used in industrial and architectural design. The software is great at 2D drafting but not really much at 3D modeling. As a result, it is not as widely used in the 3D printing community as some of the software I've presented above. Moreover, the software has a steep learning curve when you want to make complex models.

AutoCAD is primarily designed for professionals with experience in programming models algorithmically. The software's models can be converted into STLL files for 3D printing.

Watch AutoCAD Tutorials

Level: Professional

Cost:From $185/month or $1,470/year
-Free and fully-functional version to download for students and faculties.

• 9. CATIA

CATIA CAD is not just a CAD software but a multi-platform software suite for CAD, CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) and more. CATIA enabled advanced product design and development through different stages. This makes it an excellent program for systems architects, mechanical engineers, and creative designers.

CATIA also has a 3D design environment through which different parties can collaborate on product modeling and share designs.

Watch CATIA Tutorials

Level: Professional

Level: Intermediate

Cost: $60 per month or free for students, educators & academic institutions

• 7. Solidworks

Solidworks is one of the best CAD software for professional 3D designers. This parametric feature-based software has various features, including design validation tools. The software is practical and detailed, which makes it an excellent choice for designing industrial objects.

Most CAD software mimics curves by gently inclining flat structures. However, Solidworks uses a system of NURBS, which allows it to create detailed curvatures. Moreover, the software using dimensional sketching rather than polygonal modeling. Dimensional sketching makes resizing less of a hassle.

However, Solidworks has limited support for importing .STL files. If you want to download and edit .STL files, you will need a different program.

Watch Solidworks Tutorials

Level: Professional

Cost: $3,995 for each license

• 8. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a professional 3D modeling software that is mainly used in industrial and architectural design. The software is great at 2D drafting but not really much at 3D modeling. As a result, it is not as widely used in the 3D printing community as some of the software I've presented above. Moreover, the software has a steep learning curve when you want to make complex models.

AutoCAD is primarily designed for professionals with experience in programming models algorithmically. The software's models can be converted into STLL files for 3D printing.

Watch AutoCAD Tutorials

Level: Professional

Cost:From $185/month or $1,470/year
-Free and fully-functional version to download for students and faculties.

• 9. CATIA

CATIA CAD is not just a CAD software but a multi-platform software suite for CAD, CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) and more. CATIA enabled advanced product design and development through different stages. This makes it an excellent program for systems architects, mechanical engineers, and creative designers.

CATIA also has a 3D design environment through which different parties can collaborate on product modeling and share designs.

Watch CATIA Tutorials

Level: Professional

Cost: From $10,000

• 10. OpenSCAD

3d Printing Patterns Free

OpenSCAD is an open-source software for making solid 3D models. This free software is aimed at experienced users looking to use advanced features. Programmers and coders love the software's Extrusion of 2D outlines and Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG).

3d Printing Design Programs

You can use OpenSCAD to create simple shapes that are already parametrically defined.

However, since the software is completely based on description language, it may not be suitable for everyone.

Watch OpenSCAD Tutorials

Level: Professional

Cost: Free

• 11. Rhino3D

Rhino3D is a commercial 3D computer graphics and CAD program that is known for versatility. The software used NURB, a precise mathematical model that enables manipulation of solids, surfaces, meshes, curves and points in different ways.

Rhino3D comes with various design features and can create complex 3D models. However, it has quite a learning curve.

Watch Rhino3D Tutorials

Level: Professional

Cost: Includes different bundles; Rhino 6.0 starts at 995€ for Windows and Rhino 5.0 at 695€ for Mac

Sooner or later, you will find the best CAD software for 3D printing for you. However, if you are a beginner, I would recommend TinkerCad.

Want help finding the right 3D printer? Then read our guide to buying 3D printers!