Modeling for 3D printing with TinkerCAD
TinkerCAD is a free web application from Autodesk for 3D modeling, ideal for those approaching 3D printing for the first time. It runs directly in the browser, without installing anything, and is based on the constructive solid geometry (CSG): models are created by combining primitive shapes (cubes, cylinders, spheres) through union and subtraction operations.
This simplicity is also its strong point for 3D printing: models created with TinkerCAD are automatically solid, closed, and voluminous. However, there are a few tricks to keep in mind for trouble-free printing.
Volume and closed objects
In TinkerCAD, every shape placed on the work surface is automatically a solid with volume. It's not possible to create open surfaces like in Blender or Rhino, which eliminates the problem of non-closed objects altogether.
TinkerCAD uses two types of shapes:
– Solid shapes (colored): add material to the model
– Empty shapes (grey, transparent): they subtract material, creating holes or cavities
To combine shapes, select them together and click Group (or prizes Ctrl+G). Solid shapes merge, hollow shapes hollow out the solid. This mechanism is equivalent to the Boolean operations of professional CAD.
Important: Always group all objects before exporting. If you export without grouping, the separate shapes will remain as independent bodies in the STL file, and intersections may cause errors when printing.
Manifold and correct geometry
TinkerCAD generates models that are almost always manifolds and ready for printing. However, there are some situations that can cause problems:
Shapes that touch only at an edge or a point
If two shapes share only an edge or vertex without overlapping, the resulting model may not print. Make sure the shapes overlap slightly (even by 0.1 mm) before grouping them.
Walls too thin
Even if the model looks correct on screen, very thin walls may not print. Use the TinkerCAD grid to check the dimensions: the grid is set in the lower right part of the work surface, with resolutions from 0.1 mm to 5 mm.
Details too small
Raised text, fine engravings, and very fine details may not be visible on the final print. As a general rule, keep details to a minimum of 0.5-1 mm thick.
Attention to the dimensions
TinkerCAD works in millimeters. Check the dimensions of your model by clicking on a shape: the measurements appear directly on the object and can be modified by entering the exact values.
You must consider:
– the maximum dimensions printable for the chosen material
– it minimum wall thickness
– the minimum detail size
See the sheet Technical details on the page of each 3D printing material for exact values.
Suggestion: use the ruler of TinkerCAD (available in the tools on the right) to place it on the work plane and check the distances precisely.
Check the model
TinkerCAD doesn't have advanced analysis tools like Blender or Rhino, but you can follow this checklist before exporting:
1. Group everything: select all objects (Ctrl+A) and click Group (Ctrl+G). This merges all the shapes into a single solid.
2. Make sure there are no floating shapes: rotate the view to check that there are no pieces detached or suspended in the air.
3. Check the dimensions: Click on the grouped object and verify that the overall measurements are correct.
4. Check contact with the plan: Make sure the base of the object is resting on the work surface. If the object is raised, drag it down or use D to automatically support it.
5. Check thin walls: Look at the model from the inside (with an empty section) to check that there are no walls that are too thin.
If you encounter errors after exporting, you can use free external tools like Meshmixer to analyze and repair the STL file.
These tools are particularly useful for correcting AI-generated models, which often contain geometry errors. Read our A guide on how to 3D print AI-generated models
Export in STL format
Step 1: Group all objects
Select all elements of the model (Ctrl+A) and group them (Ctrl+G).
Step 2: Export
Click on the button Export top right of the toolbar.
Step 3: Choose the format
In the pop-up window, select what to include:
– Everything in the design: exports all objects in the project
– Selected shape: exports only the currently selected object
Then choose the format .STL. The file will automatically download to your computer.
Note: TinkerCAD always exports solid, closed meshes. The mesh resolution is automatically set by the software and cannot be changed by the user: for most uses, it's perfectly adequate.
Export to OBJ format
TinkerCAD also allows you to export in .csv format. OBJ, useful if the template contains different colors assigned to the shapes.
Follow the same procedure as for STL export, but choose the format .OBJ in the pop-up window. TinkerCAD will generate an .obj file with the geometric information and an .mtl file with the materials (colors).
To order a full color 3D print, create a .zip archive containing the .obj and .mtl files and upload it to the 3D printing upload page.
Frequently asked questions
Is TinkerCAD suitable for professional 3D printing?
TinkerCAD is excellent for geometric-based models and projects of low to medium complexity. For complex organic shapes, sculptures, or mechanical designs with precise tolerances, more advanced software such as Blender, Rhinoceros or Autodesk Fusion.
Can I import and edit STL files in TinkerCAD?
Yes. Click on Import at the top right and drag the STL file into your project. TinkerCAD will import it as a solid shape that you can combine with other shapes. Warning: Very large files (over 25 MB or 100,000 triangles) may not be imported.
How do I create a hollow (hollowed) object?
Create a slightly smaller copy of your object, set it as empty form (select it and choose "Hole" in the right panel), place it inside the original, and group it. The result will be an object with walls the thickness of which is equal to the difference between the two shapes.
Do I need to install anything?
No. TinkerCAD works entirely in your web browser. All you need is a free Autodesk account. It's compatible with all modern browsers on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chromebook.
What are the limitations of TinkerCAD?
TinkerCAD does not offer mesh analysis tools (control manifolds, wall thickness, overhang). It is not possible to adjust the export mesh resolution. For very complex projects, the workspace may become slow. For these reasons, for professional or complex projects, we recommend software such as Blender, Rhinoceros, or Autodesk Fusion.
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