Overview
Free 3D suite for modeling, sculpting, rendering, and exporting STL/STEP for printing and CNC.
Quick facts
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Best for
- 3D · free & open source
- Typical output
- STL, OBJ, FBX
- Typical cost
- Free
Excellent for
- Organic models, product prototypes, and hero renders★★★★★
- STL export for FDM and resin printing★★★★★
- Learning 3D without license cost★★★★★
Compatible with
File types
Pros & cons
Pros
- ✔Organic models, product prototypes, and hero renders
- ✔STL export for FDM and resin printing
- ✔Learning 3D without license cost
Creator & maker guides
Preparing artwork
- Work in formats suited for export: STL, OBJ, FBX, GLB, STEP (via add-ons)
Resolution & export
- Apply scale (Ctrl+A) before export; set scene units to millimeters.
- Export STL for print; STEP when a machinist needs accurate CAD.
Bleed & safe areas
No items yet.
Common mistakes
- Non-manifold meshes that fail slicing
- Wrong scale (Blender units ≠ millimeters)
- Normals flipped causing slicer artifacts
Best practices
- 1Apply scale (Ctrl+A) before export; set scene units to millimeters.
- 2Use 3D Print Toolbox to check manifold walls and overhangs.
- 3Export STL for print; STEP when a machinist needs accurate CAD.
Common mistakes
Non
manifold meshes that fail slicing
Wrong scale (Blender units ≠ millimeters)
Wrong scale (Blender units ≠ millimeters)
Normals flipped causing slicer artifacts
Normals flipped causing slicer artifacts
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Non-manifold meshes that fail slicing | See guides below for context | Review creator/maker tabs and troubleshooting table |
| Wrong scale (Blender units ≠ millimeters) | See guides below for context | Review creator/maker tabs and troubleshooting table |
| Normals flipped causing slicer artifacts | See guides below for context | Review creator/maker tabs and troubleshooting table |
Helpful tools
DPI & resolution calculator
SoonImage size calculator
SoonBleed generator
SoonAspect ratio calculator
SoonHeat press time & temperature
SoonSublimation wrap calculator
Soon