Library Guides: 3D Printing: 3D Software

3D Modeling Software

Solidworks CAD software is available on all library computers for creating 3D digital models (also available on Penn State WebApps). Tinkercad is a useful online resource for beginners. Adobe Photoshop can also be used to create a 3D model from a 2D image. Training for Photoshop, Solidworks, and other CAD software is available from Lynda.com for Penn State users.

Desktop Software

TinkerCAD
A free, web-based application to create 3D models for printing. This app is very quick to learn, with quick tutorials and lessons on how to use it. It can generate quick shapes and geometry, insert letters, numbers and symbols into your model, and can import from other 3D files. It requires a free account with Autodesk.
SketchUp
SketchUp, which was owned by Google but sold to Trimble, is a great 3D modeling program with a quick learning curve and a lot of documentation.
Blender
Blender is an extremely powerful, open-source, professional 3D production software that allows for creation of 3D models, applications, and video games.
Autodesk 123D
Autodesk 123D is a suite of hobbyist CAD and 3D modelling tools, similar in scope to SketchUp and based on Autodesk Inventor.
Autodesk Meshmixer
MeshMixer is a 3D processing software that allows for editing and refining 3D models (for example, adding supports), and creating new and interesting designs.

Mobile Apps

Morphi
App for iPad (Android version in development)
Tinkerplay
iPad app for designing 3D characters.

3D Utility Software

MeshLab
MeshLab is a 3D mesh processing software that allows you to clean up your models, sealing holes, de-duplicating vertices, and converting them into a form that can be printed by a 3D printer.