On a more granular level, CAD software for 3D printing also allows you to export it to a file format, such as STL or OBJ, compatible with and ready for slicing.ģD slicing software then translates the model into a set of G-code instructions interpretable by a 3D printer. It’s the starting point from which a fully formed 3D model emerges, a digital blank canvas that allows you to transform an idea or concept into a real-world 3D printed object. How Does CAD Software Work With 3D Printing?ĬAD software gives you tools to create a 3D model from scratch that can then be processed, sliced, and sent to a 3D printer for printing.

The company no longer develops Sketchup Make, its free desktop software, but you can download it from Trimble's archives.Top Picks Best CAD Software for 3D Printing (for Hobbyists & Professionals) – Full Round-Up The SketchUp website offers a really impressive array of video and self-paced training options to help you along the way. Of course, if you're looking to put out detailed designs with accurate sizing and tolerances, you'll need to spend some time learning the ins and outs of the program. Even if you've never done any CAD work or 3D modeling before, you can pull together some really nice presentations in minutes. The interface makes it easy to get up to speed on the basics. SketchUp's free web-based version has plenty of power, but if you need additional functionality, you have to buy SketchUp Pro-and pay a hefty price tag.

Trimble has enhanced it and developed it further and now offers a slew of related products.

In 2012, Google sold the product to Trimble. SketchUp was originally developed by Google and was one of the greatest free CAD packages ever put on the market. Free feature is web-only with many important features hobbled.

Easy cad software for beginners