Is Blender Good For 3d Printing?

There is no question that Blender is one of the most popular software for 3D printing.  This software can convert a digital description into an image. The render engine is made up of codes which control materials and lighting that tells you how your object will look.

Get Blender Print Ready

Let’s take a moment to understand how 3D printing works with Blender.

• The first step is to obtain a measurement on the software, since your object needs to be manufactured to a particular scale.  For example, 1 blender unit could be equivalent to 1 meter.
• Customize your interface for all your 3D requirements. Include all Blender add-ons required for producing a high-quality model e.g. 3D print toolbox.
• In the 3D window make sure you have the single and split view so you can see your object in perspective, side, top and front views.  In this way, you can see the changes to your production, while making further adjustments.
• Blender gives thickness by providing a series of layers, The Slicer allows you to cut the image into layers so that they can be stacked and reshaped to produce the final product.
• Importing your file into Blender is fairly easy.  Firstly you choose a file type that is compatible with Blender like .svg.  On your computer go to file/Import/.stl, select the file from your computer.  Set up the device, add the materials to the printer, check object occasionally to ensure no errors, and then print your 3D object.

Why choose Blender?

Although Blender was traditionally used to create animated films and motion graphics, it is more popularly being used in 3D printing. Blender is a free modeling software that you can obtain online to create your own 3D models.  It is unique in that you no longer have to pay to use someone else’s already established software; you can create yours for free.

Blender is updated regularly and you will observe it includes many modifications that you can use on your model without destroying it. Having the option to both single and split view allows you to quickly visualize all changes that you made.

Blender renders light so each layer can be lit with the group of lights selected.  Rendering also allows you to set specific features for parts or the entire layer detailing masks, solids, halos, and transparency.  In other words, you have full control over how your final image will look.  Once your customer provides a sketch, an image, a sample product or 2D file of what they desire, you can easily use Blender to help produce it.

One major complaint users have expressed is that it is not very easy to learn. However, whether you are new to Blender or accustomed to the software, there are many tutorials online to guide you.  When you master the software you can design and print more complex products.

After all is said and done, Blender is excellent for 3D printing. If you have any other questions regarding using Blender for 3D printing, call us 1-888-202-2052 or send an email to jason@jcadusa.com.

Interested in using Blender for product animation? Find out how to make a 3D product animation here.