Tool Summary #
Tinkercad is a 3D modeling software that also has electronics and code learning features. Tinkercad is Autodesk owned (the same company that owns Fusion 360) and designed to be a perfect introduction to it. After creating a model or browsing Tinkercad’s website and selecting another user’s project, the user can export their design for 3D printing or laser cutting.
Quick Facts #
- Price: Free
- Platforms: Web, iPad app, tablets and Chromebooks through Google Play Store
- Recommended For: Beginners
- Where to Access: tinkercad.com. Sign up for a personal account and start tinkering!
Things to Know #
Through Tinkercad, users have the option of turning their products into blocks or bricks, which strongly resemble the Minecraft layout and Lego format. This can aid in designing projects that need to be scaled inside Tinkercad, but translated onto a separate physical or digital plane. If the user is not interested in 3D modeling or wishes to work off of designs that are separately sourced from Tinkercad, it is possible to import STL, OBJ, and SVG files (as long as they are under 25MB). A list of sites to find designs is on the Getting Started page. The dimensions and scale of the file can be changed if they are too large. On the workplane, objects can be duplicated, mirrored, made invisible, lifted, aligned, and shifted. Grid properties, located above the snap grid feature, can be altered to scale to the size of the Dremel or Makerbot model being used.
Use a computer mouse to easier rotate and zoom in on your projects!
Getting Started Guides #
Lesson Plans – Step-by-step project lessons from Tinkecad.
PromoAmbitions Video Tutorial – Six-part introduction to 3D modeling.
Keyboard Shortcuts – A simple guide to moving objects around on the work plane.
Additional Resources #
Thingiverse + Cults – 3D printing websites where you can find ideas and downloadable files for your next project.
Want More Help? #
- Book an appointment with a consultant at the DKC. We would love to help you with your 3D design projects!
- Check out our Getting Started with 3D Modeling and Design Guide for some additional tips and tricks and common mistakes.
Reviewed by Haley Gosman 09/19/2024