Modeling software  

RE: Modeling software

Watch some of the tutorials for Fusion 360. It is a great program by AutoDesk.

If you qualify as a hobbyist, the license is free.

RE: Modeling software

If you are new to Fusion 360 you may find the Lars Christensen beginner series shows things a little too quickly for you to follow along. I found Paul McWhorter an excellent true beginner tutorial and in less than a week had learned enough to be able to understand and use Lars Sunday offerings.

RE: Modeling software

McWhorter will also teach you how to design 3D printable herringbone gears in Fusion 360.

That is on my must-make list. Fun set of tutorials. He won't provide any downloads - he expects you to make your own.

RE: Modeling software

Wow, never heard of Paul McWorter before, but I spent a few hours on and off this morning and in the first 4 Fusion 360 videos, I've learned more than trying to follow the tutorials included with Fusion360.

RE: Modeling software

I am totally digging the tutorials! I'm on my way now to get a new computor just to use for all my 3d modeling stuff. Getting pretty excited about finally making some things happen!

RE: Modeling software

All the very best mate...Just a suggestion..Don't overdo things in over excitement..Just be calm and follow the process.Will be waiting for the success updates 

RE: Modeling software

Thanks for that, and believe me, the girl friend has no problem yarding me out of my lab to reel me in! I decided to wait on the PC to do a little more research. Any suggestions?

RE: Modeling software

Did you try Tinkercad? Any software can work well at the beginning (if they output .stl files, obviously)... Then, your own experience will help you to decide which software is better for your needs...

Take in mind, slicing is the next step after your design is finished... You can try Simplify3D or Cura for your first approach....

Best Regards

Impresora-3d.online

RE: Modeling software

Hi Eric,

First of all there is no "best software". It highly depends on what you want to create. Is it technical (CAD) stuff or more organic objects (Sculpting). Maybe you need to create some architect models? So think about that first what exactly you want to create and based on that pick the right program. If you have a mobile device like iPad Pro with pen, there are in addition a lot of different programs which might be useful.

My favorites so far are:

• Fusion360
• Blender
• ZBrush

As you are working for yourself, you should know it's all about time spent. So pick the right tool, so you can get the requested results fast and good.

RE: Modeling software

So the latest update...

I decided to start working with Fusion 360 and have to say it is a learning curve with the whole parametric stuff, but really cool for doing what I like in designing mechanical stuff. I would alos like to do archictectual eventually to print models for home builders. I use the prusa slicer but really wish there was a more comprehensive explaination of all the printer settings. It seems right now its all guess work! 

RE: Modeling software

Start with Slicer in Basic mode and use the presets for now until you start to create complex prints that may require custom supports, variable layers etc, then switch to intermediate and then advanced. When you get comfortable in Basic mode, you can switch the other modes on and you will still have all the basic stuff you are used to, and see all the other stuff, and if it is working as is, there is no need to change any of the other settings, but do a search for each one to learn about it, and with the printing experience you have already gained, you will still be able to print well without worrying about what does this all do. There are things like ramming settings which you may never touch.

It can be a bit overwhelming when you see all the things you can do in slicer, but I don't believe most people use them all anyway.

And you can always ask on here what this does.

I've ended up buying myself a couple of books for learning Fusion 360, I just find it better than pausing you tube and switching to F360 and back again, One a Tutorial book (AUTODESK FUSION 360 BASICS TUTORIAL (August 2019)) this covers the new interface and one a beginners / intermediate reference (Autodesk Fusion 360: A Power Guide for Beginners and Intermediate Users (2nd Edition)) still using the old interface.

RE: Modeling software

Posted by: @insulationsystems-me

I use the prusa slicer but really wish there was a more comprehensive explaination of all the printer settings. It seems right now its all guess work! 

I've seen documentations here created by the community which are trying to explain every parameter.

But honestly knowing the function of it and understanding in which situation to use what are completely different things. After two years in this community I still discover new options in the slicing process. So please don't be overwhelmed and start with basic stuff.

Once you start creating/printing stuff, feel free to ask. There are many nice people here who are willing to help.