Skip to Main Content

Free and Library Technology Resources: 3D Design

Build a 3D model

Paid Options

Rhino

3D modeling software that is easy to learn, and available in the Digital Media Studio.

rhino logo

 

 

 

 

 

 

Solidworks

A popular professional level 3D design program available to students in select colleges at Appalachian.

 

AutoCAD

Design anything with AutoDesk's ultimate program, AutoCAD.  This is a slightly more advanced program that would work well for engineers or architects, and is available in the Digital Media Studio.

Maya

A part of the AutoDesk suite, Maya is a 3D modeling, animation and simulation software.  Available in the Digital Media Studio.

Free Options

Tinkercad

The easiest program to use, Tinkercad is perfect for beginners.  Use basic shapes to build items to print.  Tinkercad is also web-based, so you can access your 3D models anywhere!  Here is a quick reference guide to Tinkercad.

Fusion 360

Easy to learn 3D modeling software, and the perfect next step after learning Tinkercad.  Also by Autodesk, Fusion 360 is free for students for up to 3 years.  This program will be able to handle most of your 3D modeling needs.

Fusion 360 logo

Blender

Another free, open source software, Blender is great for building detailed models and digital environments.  This program is recommended for those who are used to using CAD software as it a more powerful program.

blender logo

Sketchup Make

A free, 3D drawing tool.

Books

Librarian