Intro

3D printing technology has come a long way in recent years, making it more accessible and affordable for the general public. However, the software used to design and prepare 3D models for printing can be a bit tricky for beginners. In this article, we will review some of the best 3D printing software for beginners and provide a tutorial on how to use them.

Tinkercad

Tinkercad is a simple, browser-based 3D design tool that is perfect for beginners. It is easy to use and offers a wide range of features and capabilities. Tinkercad is also free to use and is compatible with a wide range of 3D printers. Tutorial:

  1. First, go to the Tinkercad website and create an account.
  2. Once you are logged in, you will be taken to the Tinkercad workspace.
  3. To create a new design, click on the “Create New Design” button.
  4. Use the shapes and tools provided to create your design.
  5. Once you are satisfied with your design, click on the “Export for 3D Printing” button to export your design as an STL file.
  6. Use your preferred slicing software to prepare your model for printing.

SketchUp

SketchUp is a user-friendly 3D modeling software that is popular among architects and designers. It offers a wide range of features and capabilities and is compatible with a wide range of 3D printers. Tutorial:

  1. First, download and install SketchUp on your computer.
  2. Once you have installed SketchUp, open the program and create a new file.
  3. Use the tools provided to create your design.
  4. Once you are satisfied with your design, click on the “Export” button to export your design as an STL file.
  5. Use your preferred slicing software to prepare your model for printing.

SelfCAD

SelfCAD is a powerful, all-in-one 3D modeling software that offers advanced features and capabilities. It is easy to use and offers a wide range of features and capabilities. SelfCAD is also compatible with a wide range of 3D printers. Tutorial:

  1. First, go to the SelfCAD website and create an account.
  2. Once you are logged in, you will be taken to the SelfCAD workspace.
  3. To create a new design, click on the “Create New Design” button.
  4. Use the shapes and tools provided to create your design.
  5. Once you are satisfied with your design, click on the “Export for 3D Printing” button to export your design as an STL file.
  6. Use your preferred slicing software to prepare your model for printing.

Outro

In conclusion, there are many options available when it comes to 3D printing software for beginners. Tinkercad, SketchUp, and SelfCAD are great options that offer a wide range of features and capabilities. By following the tutorial provided, you will be able to create amazing 3D designs and prepare them for printing with ease.