CAD Software for Makers

Published at: September 19th 2024

There is a variety of paid CAD software such as SolidWorks, Autodesk Fusion, CATIAetc. In this lecture, however, we will focus on free and open-source CAD software and slicers.

Free open-source CAD software

1. TinkerCAD

TinkerCAD is free, runs in your web browser, and has a clear user interface and intuitive building process that makes it the go-to program for many beginners.While it lacks advanced features, it’s perfect for getting started.

As a web-based application, all that’s necessary to get started with TinkerCAD is to sign up for a free account on their website which is linked below.

Tinkercad - Create 3D digital designs with online CAD

Picture 1. TinkerCAD interface (source: Intergalacticrobot: Tinkercad)

Below is a short instructional video on how to use Tinkercad:

TinkerCAD - Tutorial for Beginners in 9 MINUTES! [ COMPLETE ] (youtube.com)

2. FreeCAD:

FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeler that allows you to create 2D drawings and use them as a basis for creating 3D models. You can also work the opposite way around: extract 2D models from 3D models. Widely used in product design, architecture, and engineering, it offers a range of features. You can create complex models and work with formats like STL, OBJ, and DXF.

If you’d like to get started with FreeCAD, their website is linked below:

FreeCAD: Your own 3D parametric modeler

Picture 2. FreeCAD interface (source: fabacademy.org)

Below is a beginner tutorial:
FreeCAD 0.19 - Basic Course - Part 1 - Your start with FreeCAD (EN) (youtube.com)

3. LibreCAD:

LibreCAD is another open-source option for 2D CAD. It’s suitable for creating technical drawings, schematics, and architectural plans. If you’re focused on 2D work, this lightweight software is worth exploring and you can start right now if you visit the link below.

LibreCAD - Free Open Source 2D CAD

Below is an instructional video that helps you draw a gear in LibreCAD:

LibreCAD Tutorial: How to Draw a Gear (youtube.com)

Slicers for makers

1. Cura Slicer

Cura integrates with popular 3D CAD software tools like SolidWorks and Autodesk. It is compatible with multiple file formats such as 3MF, AMF, CTM, COLLADA, STL, PLY, OBJ, X3D, GLB, GLTF.

UltiMaker Cura - UltiMaker

Follow the link below for an instructional video on how to use Cura slicer for beginners:

[Updated] The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to Cura Slicer! (youtube.com)

Picture 3. Cura slicer interface

2. PrusaSlicer

PrusaSlicer is tailored for Prusa 3D printers. It’s user-friendly and offers specialized settings for Prusa machines. It is compatible with STL, STEP, 3MF, OBJ, AMF files.

PrusaSlicer | Original Prusa 3D printers directly from Josef Prusa

To watch a video tutorial on how to use PrusaSlicer, click the following link:

PrusaSlicer Beginner Tutorial: Learn the basics (youtube.com)