Below are some of the most popular software tools that our community of designers and makers use to create their products on Shapeways. You can find the whole range of programmatic, parametric, sculpting and modeling software. We feature both applications that are better suited for beginner 3D modelers, and those in use by professional or commercial designers.
If you are mostly just looking to customize something, check out our Easy 3D Printing Creator Apps page.
Highlight: All Windows Mac OS X Linux Online Service For Beginners For Professionals
Tinkercad
A fantastic beginner program, that leads you to learn complex things through simple quests. Runs right in your browser, and the skills you learn are easily transferable to more advanced programs. Integrated and prints directly to Shapeways!
Learn how Tinkercad and Shapeways work together
Online Service3D Tin
Another browser based program using WebGL, this is free as long as you share your designs under Creative Commons.
Sketchup
Drawing-based tool for architects, designers, builders, makers and engineers who design for the physical world. SketchUp Make is a free version and SketchUp Pro is a paid version with additional functionality.
Blender
A powerful application with full-fledged professional tools, Blender has a wide community and resources to help you learn.
Learn how Blender and Shapeways work together
Windows, Mac, LinuxFreeCAD
An open source parametric 3D modeler, great for both the home user, hobbyist and experienced designer. Parametric modeling allows for easy editing of your design.
Open SCAD
OpenSCAD is not an interactive 3D design tool. It is something like a programmatic 3D-compiler that reads a script file containing 3D geometry definitions, and in turn generates a solid 3D model as output.
Sculptris
A free, introductory digital sculpting tool, a great stepping stone for digital sculptors, created by the makers of Zbrush.
3D Model To Print
A cloud-based software service, focused on 3D architectural models. 3DMTP automatically and efficiently transforms 3D designs into scalable and 3D printable model files.
eMachineShop
Easy-to-use for designing mechanical parts - a machine shop at your fingertips! With its intuitive interface & helpful videos, anyone can leverage both the Shapeways and eMachineShop production facilities by using just one tool.
AutoCAD
An advanced design and documentation tool. Ideal for architects and design engineers.
Cinema 4D
A well known design Suite in the VFX community, it has great tools for 3D modeling for printing as well.
Lightwave 3D
A classic 3D graphic software, which includes powerful rendering, animation and modeling tools.
Autodesk Maya
A massive, complete suite of tools for professional all aspects of 3D design including modeling, rigging, dynamics and animation.
Photoshop CC
The Industry standard software for 2D content editing and creation applied to 3D design. Offers integration directly with Shapeways.
Learn how Photoshop and Shapeways work together
Windows, MacSolidworks
An advanced modeling tool that is great for mechanical, precise product design.
Learn how Solidworks and Shapeways work together
Windows, Mac