Like where is a good place to buy stl files online, so far ive only printed free files but i think i want to try those neat paid ones, im just not sure where to buy stl files from?
I mostly like useful prints like tools or anything that can help in day to day living.
What site would you suggest i checkout and why so?
I just model nearly everything I print. The one time I purchased was from cults3d. I’m sure printable or anywhere else is fine too. Most of the paid ones just have better pictures but some are great designs imo
I really should learn 3d modeling for printing?
It’s definitely not necessary, but it becomes very empowering when you can go from idea in your head to 3d mock-up to printed object in a matter of minutes or hours.
It’s OK to not rush in to learning a design program of any kind. Take your time if you want. There are millions of things to print at the click of a button.
And when you are ready to learn something new and extra, you will know when you are ready and then you can start learning. And it will be a fun process, not a chore because ‘you have to learn this.’ This is a journey, not a job for you
I think so. While it may seem daunting and very complex at first, getting the basics down in blender will get you pretty far. FreeCAD is another popular choice. They’re two very different ways of modeling, so I recommend trying out a tutorial for each and see which style works for you.
There’s also onshape which has a free tier (your files are public) and it’s web based so you can model on any platform. Or fusion 360 which comes from an annoying company but fine for little things. I’ve been using onshape for little things lately. I
don’t think I’d recommend blender to a newbie. It’s more involved and really takes time to learn. Similar for free CAD. I love the idea but it’s really clunky to use.
The best (imo) modeling software has a simple workflow with easy to find tools. Create a sketch, extrude that sketch, then do it again if needed, add holes etc…