Basics Archives

Not Unbelievable, Really Beautiful Surfaces

Blender NURBS Modeling: Simply Explained

If you want to create curves in Blender, there are two ways to go: NURBS or Bézier. Read on to find out more about Blender NURBS modeling!

Browsing the Fast Lane

Car 3D Model Sources – 5 Best Sites

Whether you're looking for a car 3D model for rendering, video game development, or 3D printing, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll present some of the best sources for car 3D models.

Make Better Cuts

CNC & MDF: Top 3 Tips for CNC Cutting MDF

MDF is a widely-used material in many building projects and household products. Here's our starter guide to cutting MDF with a CNC machine.

The Detective Is Watching

The Spaghetti Detective: What Is It & How to Use It?

If you're curious about The Spaghetti Detective, read on to find out all about it. Get the 3D print detective on the case!

AutoCADically Improve Your Designs!

What Is AutoCAD? – Simply Explained

You've heard about it, but what is AutoCAD? Learn all about the popular CAD giant that brought design software to the masses.

Mega Results!

Anycubic i3 Mega & Mega S Filament Guide

Own an Anycubic i3 Mega or Mega S and want new filaments? Read on to find the best Anycubic i3 Mega filament choices for printing success!

Slice and Dice

Slic3r vs Cura: The Differences – Simply Explained

Slic3r or Cura? That's the question! We compare the top two open source slicers, focusing on their best features. Find out which is best for you.

See the LT!

AutoCAD LT 2022 vs AutoCAD 2022: The Differences

It's AutoCAD LT vs. AutoCAD: What's the LT version and how does it differ from the original? Read on for an overview of the differences.

Barely Scratching the Surface

SolidWorks Surfacing: Get Started with Surface Modeling

Expand your skill set with this simple overview of a complex design method: SolidWorks surface modeling (also called surfacing).

Ink-magine the Possibilites

Inkscape Laser Cutting: How to Design Your SVG File

Inkscape is a great tool for creating custom laser cutting/engraving designs. Learn how to use Inkscape for laser cutting!

That Doesn’t Look 3D Printed!

Sanding 3D Prints: How to Sand PLA & More

Sanding 3D prints is a lot of work, but it's worth the effort. Read on to learn how to achieve photo-ready 3D prints!

Always Watching

PrintWatch (OctoPrint Plug-in): All You Need to Know

Can't keep an eye on your print the entire time? Abort failures and optimize your 3D printer with the PrintWatch plug-in for OctoPrint.

One Machine to Another

CAM Software – What Is It & What Does It Do?

Once upon a time, extensive knowledge and manual dexterity were required to machine parts. Find out the basics of CAM software, the tools that make CNC machining easy.

The Best Laid Plans

Blender: Blueprints – How to Set Them Up

2D technical drawings can work as references for modeling. Read on to learn how to use Blender for blueprints.

Android on a Berry

Android on Raspberry Pi 4: How to Make It Work

Raspberry Pi 4 and Android are two greats in their respective worlds. Learn how and why to run Android on a Raspberry Pi 4!

The Heavyweight Class

SketchUp 2021 vs AutoCAD 2022: The Differences

If you're deciding between SketchUp vs. AutoCAD, read on to find out how they compare and which is better for you!

The Battle of the Screens

OctoDash vs OctoScreen: The Differences

OctoDash vs. OctoScreen: Two great touchscreen interfaces for printers running OctoPrint. Read on to learn the differences!

Bending Metal with SolidWorks

SolidWorks: Sheet Metal – Simply Explained

SolidWorks' sheet metal tool makes designing metal parts simpler. Follow along with our SolidWorks Sheet Metal tutorial!

They Suck, but in a Good Way!

CNC Vacuum Table: Simple Solutions for CNC Routers

CNC vacuum tables are a great solution for holding workpieces in place. Check out our list of the best options.

Turning on a Dime

Dimensions in AutoCAD: All You Need to Know

Dimensions form a crucial element of any technical drawing. Read on to learn about the different dimension commands in AutoCAD!