A Comprehensive Guide to 3D Design and STL File Manipulation Software
3D Design Software
When diving into the world of 3D design, choosing the right software is crucial. The market offers a variety of options, each catering to different levels of experience and requirements. Here's a list to guide you through your selection:Autodesk 123D
License: Freeware
Experience Level: Beginner
Website: Link
OpenSCAD
License: GNU GPL
Experience Level: Amateur
Website: Link
FreeCAD
License: GNU LGPL
Experience Level: Amateur
Website: Link
Seamless3D
License: MIT
Experience Level: Intermediate
Website: Link
Google Sketchup
License: Freemium
Experience Level: Intermediate
Website: Link
SolidWorks
License: Commercial
Experience Level: Expert
Website: Link
Blender
License: GNU GPL
Experience Level: Expert
Website: Link
STL File Manipulation Software
STL files are a common file format used in 3D printing and modeling. Manipulating these files effectively is essential for the best outcomes. Here's a list of top software for STL file manipulation:Netfabb basic (free)
License: Freeware
Capabilities: Fill missing triangles, flip inverted triangles, and more
Website: Link
Slic3r (free)
License: Freeware
Capabilities: Splitting an STL assembly into multiple STLs, merge STLs together, create build plates
Website: Link
Materialise Magics
License: Commercial
Capabilities: A combination of Netfabb and Slic3r
Website: Link
3D Model Shell Editing
Meshmixer screenshot from Mermaid 3D Scan Project
Autodesk Meshmixer
License: Freeware
Capabilities: Import STL files, split parts, add joints, merge parts, and add shapes to parts.
Website: Link
Slash 3D
License: Freeware
Capabilities: Import STL models and edit them in a style reminiscent of Minecraft. Create blocked items from scratch and download as STL.
Website: Link
