Hi everyone!
I just purchased a 3D printer and need advice on choosing modeling software. I work as a UX designer and use design tools like Figma daily, but 3D modeling is completely new to me.
I want something that won’t take forever to learn but also has enough power for more complex projects later. My main goals are editing downloaded models and creating original designs.
Here are the options I’ve been considering:
- Tinkercad: Too basic for what I need
- FreeCAD: Free but seems complicated to master
- Onshape: Cloud-based option with uncertain future pricing
- Plasticity: Paid software with one-time license
- Fusion 360: Popular choice but free version keeps getting restricted
Which program would you suggest for someone starting out? I don’t mind paying for good software, but I want to make sure I pick something that will grow with my skills.
Any thoughts on these options or other alternatives I should consider?
Coming from digital design too, Plasticity hits the sweet spot for what you need. Way more intuitive than traditional CAD, and the NURBS modeling clicks if you’re used to vector-based thinking. One-time license was huge for me - no subscription stress as a hobbyist. Took me about two months to get comfortable with the basics, but it’s way less painful than parametric stuff like Fusion 360. What sold me? It nails both organic shapes and precise mechanical parts. You’ll occasionally need mesh editing software for downloaded STLs, but for original work it’s fantastic. Smaller community but they actually respond, and the dev listens to feedback. Since you already know design software, you’ll love how it focuses on workflow over cramming in every possible feature.
honestly, blender’s worth a look too. yeah, it’s got a steep learning curve, but there’s tons of youtube tutorials and it’s completely free forever. the sculpting tools are amazing for organic stuff, and you can handle hard surface modeling as well. since you’re already comfortable with complex software from ux work, the interface shouldn’t scare you. plus the huge community means someone’s already solved whatever problem you’ll run into.
what do you plan to print? functional parts or artistic stuff? that’ll help narrow it down - some software’s way better for mechanical designs. also, what’s your computer like? some programs are pretty demanding on older machines.