Philippe Hong
Category: 3D, Design Tips
Always wanted to create something in 3D? When most of the professional tools like 3DSmax or Maya are super expensive, there are many free tools that you can play around to learn and practice. Here’s a list of free 3d tools that you can use for your projects! When you will learn how to master them, soon, Blender, SketchUp, Daz Studio and many others will have no more secrets for you 👊🏻
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1. Blender – All in one
Probably the best known, Blender is THE essential software for creating 3D elements, from the object to print to the animated short film! Its ergonomics are unique, but once mastered, you can really do whatever you imagine. Must try without further delay!
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2. DAZ3D – all tools, without compromise
This software is intended for users already familiar with the basics of 3D modelling. It has an extensive library of objects, and also allows you to animate your scenes, illuminate, render realistic, and much more. It is very character oriented, and therefore corresponds to the animation type short film, for example.
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3. Mandelbulb – discovering fractal modelling
This software is a bit special; it allows to create 3D fractal forms. But no doubt that if you take the time to tame it, you can make crazy objects, as shown in the photo!
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4. SketchUp – the architect-oriented soft
Even if the free version is limited, this online software remains very powerful. It is more oriented architecture but remains usable for modelling and simple texturing (application of texture on objects).
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5. Wings3d – sturdy, and no frills
Wings3d is open source software, it is limited to modelling and texturing; So you can not do animation, but its very efficient and intuitive operation will delight those who want to embark on 3D without having to go to a gas plant.
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6. 3D Slash – build your 3D like a building
This software is a bit special; turned especially for beginners, it puts aside the logic of creation in the spline, for a much more concrete approach to the Minecraft blocks: we use here a hammer, a trowel or a drill! So you have simplified construction of your 3D objects! As a bonus, 3D Slash embeds a module that allows you to send 3D models directly to an online service 🙂
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7. Clara.io – Real interactive rendering to expose your creations
Let’s now talk to 3D users who need a tool to display their creations interactively! Clara.io is online software that allows everyday modelling tasks with a wide range of devices, but also embeds the great V-ray rendering engine for real-time realistic rendering, directly integrable and manipulable on your site! A must, therefore, for those who want to exhibit on their websites!
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8. MagicaVoxel – create more Minecraft
This unorthodox online app opens up to a slightly different universe; Indeed it works on a modelling principle in small cubes, which give the creations a pixelated style worthy of 8-bit games! are interface requires a bit of adaptation time, but its tools allow to draw directly from 3D And give it volume later. Let yourself be seduced and impress your surroundings with models at the Minecraft! -
9. Vectary – the online service that promises surprises
Vectary combines standard modelling, surface subdivision modelling and parametric plugins. It works online, yet incorporates a subdivision system for smoothing. It opens the doors of sophisticated modelling to experienced and beginners! Beware surprises; however, it is currently available only in beta.
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10. Sculptris – model clay
You know ZBrush? But you would like to get your hands on a more straightforward software and above all, free? Get started with Sculptris, and model as if you were modelling clay!
