3D Printing and Design

Tinkercad - What is it?

Tinkercad is a web-based 3D design program by Autodesk. All that is required to make this immediately useable to students is a free account. From there, students can work through tutorials to learn the basics of the program and then continue to learn by embarking on quests to challenge themselves to reach the next level of 3D design! These challenges offer a large variety of tasks; something to appeal to everyone, at all levels of experience.

Tinkercad operates on the premise of using basic geometric shapes to create intricate designs. Possibilities are endless; from plants to animals to buildings to microbes to home décor and even accessories. If you can imagine it, you can create it with Tinkercad. Designs constructed in Tinkercad can be 3D printed, including moveable parts, or even downloaded into the popular Minecraft!

Materials to Get Started:

desktop or laptop computer
internet access
web browser
www.tinkercad.com
free Tinkercad account
3D printer (optional)

Once you have created your free Tinkercad account, work through the beginner tutorials. You will be prompted to do so once you click "create" for the first time. Click here to learn about the features that make Tinkercad so userfriendly.

Now that you understand the basics, build your skills by working through quests under the "Learn" tab. Still not sure about the basics? Work through as many lessons as you need to. These continue to build the basics as well as introducing new skills.

Ready for more? By accessing the gallery, you can explore projects created by other users. Once you have opened a project to view it, you can click "Copy and Tinker" to modify it to be your own creation!

Tinkercad is by Autodesk. Autodesk offers a suite of free design apps. Some of these operate on a computer, while others are offered on mobile platforms (iPad, tablet).
123D Apps:

How can I use the Tinkercad in my makerspace?

3D printing has emerged as a technology that will change the world. Tinkercad offers a free, self-challenging, highly motivating way for students to become immersed in this technology. Below are two guides to help guide educators in guiding students in developing skills in 3D printing and design.

Purchase the entire book here.

Tinkercad Student Challenges!

Tinkercad Student Challenge 12 3D Monster Mania
File Size:	2152 kb
File Type:	pdf

Download File

Getting better? Here are some tips to speed up your tinkering!

This tutorial shows how to import your creations into the game Minecraft!

Tinkered Build a Better Playground Lesson
File Size:	25 kb
File Type:	docx

Download File

3D Design and Printing Resources

Getting Started!

The Tinkercad blog is a great resource for educators and learners alike. Here you can find challenges, FAQs, community support,and more!

Learn More

Purchasing 3D Printing Materials

Ready to print? Tinkercad also offers tips and tricks to selecting the best materials for your purposes. From here, you will be able to seek out one of many suppliers who carries what you need!