Advanced – Free Applications

Cura & CraftWare: Good beginner slicer software used to prepare STL files for 3D printing. Both feature a “Basic” mode and an “Expert” mode for more advance features. Cura can also be used as a #D printer host software for direct control over a 3D printer. (PC/Mac)

Autodesk 123D Catch: 123D Catch is a great app for beginners who want to create 3D print models. To use the app you begin by taking a series of photos of an object from different angles and positions (the more the better). The software then attempts to stick the photos together to create a 3D model of the object. The app is designed more for entertainment that professional use but it can create some impressive results. (PC/Android/iOS)

3D Slash: 3D Slash takes a creative spin on the 3D design process. The application uses a building- block tool style, reminiscent of LEGOs. Users can start with a large block and remove smaller cubes (almost like carving a statue). Alternatively, you can begin with an empty space and build block by block. It is a great app for beginners to become more familiar with 3D design skills. (PC/Mac/Web Browser)

3DTin: 3DTin is another good beginner oriented software for model design. 3DTins appeal is that it is web browser based and stores all sketches is the cloud, freely accessible. (Web Browser)

Sculptris: Sculptris is best described as a digital tool for sculpting. It is a great software for those interested in creating figurines and statuettes. It is often used as a gateway for those thinking of trying the more expensive ZBrush tool. (PC/Mac)

ViewSTL: ViewSTL is a simple but extremely useful web browser based tool that allows you to preview STL files. (Web Browser)

Netfabb Basic: Don’t be fooled by the ‘basic’ part of this app’s title. Netfabb is a 3D slicer aimed towards intermediate and advanced users. It allows you to analyze, repair and edit STL files. It is a nice choice that gives you more options than Cure or CraftWare but doesn’t overwhelm you like the more complex applications, such as Meshmixer. (PC/Mac)

Free CAD & SketchUp: Free CAD and SketchUp are the software tools of choice for intermediate users looking to design 3D models. They have a higher learning curve than other apps mentioned previously, while still keeping things and user-friendly as possible. They are great choices for users looking to do more complex design buyt who don’t feel prepared to spend money on a purchasable software. (PC/Mac)

Meshfix & Meshlab: Two useful free tools for editing STL files. Meshfix processes a file and repairs holes and other artifacts that may be present is an STL file (Meshfix is only available for Windows). MeshLab does basic repairs as well as allowing you to delete or merge parts of a 3D model. (PC/Mac) Slic3r: Slic3r is another open source slicer software with several really cool features not often found in other slicer programs. It allows users to view a print in multiple ways as well tools to create specialized honeycomb support structures for a print.

Blender: is one of the most popular computer-aided design (CAD) software programs available for free. It has a steep learning curve and is targeted towards professional 3D print designers. It is one of the most powerful tools available and has a very helpful and active support community.

Meshmixer: Meshmixer is an advanced software for viewing, checking, editing and repairing STL files. It is one of the most useful tools available for more advanced users to survey and correct potential issues with a 3D print.

OctoPrint: While most 3D printers come with software designed specifically for that printer, some may not, or it may be preferable to use your own customized setup. Octoprint is a ‘pure’ 3D print host software. It allows user to start, pause, or interrupt 3D print jobs. It accepts G-code (the language spoken by 3D printers) from almost any slicer software and allows you to visualize the file before and during printing. Octoprint is also the go to for users who want to setup remote control for 3D printers.