Beginner
Want to learn about 3D printers, but not quite ready to make a 3D model from scratch?
Below are some free resources that have ready-to-print projects available for you to download – no tweaking required!
Intermediate
Ready to get started making your own 3D model to print?
Tinkercad is a great resource to get started in 3D design. The website has many tutorials ranging from how to use their free platform, to how to make a simple key chain, to challenges to make complex designs. Below are linked a few recommended tutorials and beginning design prompts to get you started- all for free. We recommend completing the tutorials below in order, but you are welcome to play around and learn however works best for you!
First, learn the basics about using Tinkercad’s free design platform:
- Let’s Learn Tinkercad: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/overview/O8XV0X1IRXTXGIH
- Learn the Moves: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/overview/OPC41AJJKIKDWDV?type=designs
Then, do a couple of guided projects to put your new skills to use:
- Make a Monogrammed Ring: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/overview/monogrammed-ring
- Make a Die from Scratch: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/overview/OMPFUS5IYC6JRMP
You’re ready to play around in Tinkercad on your own! Try using one of the prompts below to make your own design from scratch.
- Make a keychain with your name on it.
- Make a simplified model of your favorite animal.
- Design your own tic-tac-toe game with a board and customized X’s and O’s.
Advanced
Ready for a challenge?
Try making some more complex designs, creating objects for practical use, and experimenting with mathematic design tools. Below are some more tutorials that lead you in how to use some more advanced design tools in Tinkercad.
- Make a 3D Printed Pennywhistle: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/overview/O3XILPZJ6CG757E
- Make a Coral Reef: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/overview/OSV6OSUIYLZSL0Y
- Make a Beeked Whale: https://www.tinkercad.com/learn/overview/O1Q4ZIZIUKF5NWE?type=designs