# 3D CAD Software for DIY Personal Use SOLIDWORKS for Makers – Personal CAD for Makers Who Dream Big ![DIY 3D CAD Software for Personal Use: 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2024-02/diy_banner.jpg.webp) Start making today with SOLIDWORKS for Makers ### DIY CAD Software for Makers DIY projects require both creativity and precision, and that's exactly what CAD software for home use delivers. It's a practical tool that enhances the way you design and execute your DIY projects. Whether you’re a weekend warrior in home renovations and repairs, a skilled woodworker, or an expert in machinery, DIY CAD software helps you take your projects to their full potential. ### CAD Software: Enhancing DIY Projects CAD software for personal use helps DIY hobbyists enhance project quality, efficiency, and scope. Here’s how: - Increase Precision: CAD software for personal use allows DIY enthusiasts to design with exact measurements. - Visualize Ideas: See how your ideas look in real life. View your design with different materials and adjust sizes. - Easily Make Changes: Skip the pencil and eraser. Making changes to a design is quick and easy with DIY CAD software. - Share With Others: Cloud-based CAD software means it’s easy to access and share designs from anywhere. - Expand Fabrication: Create compatible files for 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines. ## Pick the Makers package that's right for you: ![](/sites/default/filesd10/2026-01/sw_design_monitor.png) #### 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers ##### **Proven and powerful SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD** **Features include:** - 3D CAD: Locally Installed - Local & Cloud Storage - Photorealistic Rendering - 2.5 & 3-Axis CAM - Access to Learning Content and Maker Communities ​ **Devices Supported:** - Windows PC - Installation required \*USA price for single user excluding local taxes. Local pricing listed in cart. 15 day money back policy. - [Buy $48 USD/year\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=YSC) - [Buy $15 USD/month\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=MSC) ![](/sites/default/filesd10/inline-images/sw_tablet_xdesign-3.png) #### SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers ##### **Next-generation of browser-based 3D CAD Apps** **Features include:** - Cloud 3D CAD: Browser-based - Cloud Storage - AI-powered Design Guidance and Design Assistant - Cloud Rendering and Interactive 3D Presentations - Simulation: Motion Studies - Access to Learning Content and Maker Communities **Devices Supported:** - Chromebooks, MACs, Tablets, Windows PC - No installation required \*USA price for single user excluding local taxes. Local pricing listed in cart. 15 day money back policy. - [Buy $48 USD/year\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_SWcloudapps?licencingScheme=YSC) - [Buy $15 USD/month\*](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cart/Makers_SWcloudapps?licencingScheme=MSC) #### Need a detailed comparison between these packages? 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for MakersSOLIDWORKS xDesign for MakersParts & Assemblies Drawings Freeform Designs Sheetmetal Structural & Framing Mold Design Motion Studies CAM (NC Programming) Rendering Interactive 3D Presentations No Installation RequiredPC Installation Learning Content Online Communities ## Best Features of DIY 3D CAD Software ### SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD Desktop-based SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD solution connected to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Internet is required to use. ### Rendering and Markup Elevate your designs with high quality visuals and precise markups. ### Parametric Modeling Define geometry to generate 3D models in CAD. ### Sub-D Modeling Create smooth, organic shapes with adjustable, fine-tuned control. ### NC Programming Digital validation and fabrication with 2.5-axis and 3-axis milling and wire EDM support . ### Cloud Storage Ditch the desktop computer and access your designs from anywhere and on any device with cloud-based DIY CAD software. Get started with 3D CAD for Home Use - [Get started now](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/cnb/offers/Makers_Sculptor?licencingScheme=YSC) ## Get Inspired by Makers Like You - [Makers | Made in 3D Zipper Joint for Thin Plates (3D Printed) How do you join two thin 3D printed plates end on end? Use the Zipper Joint!](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/?_gl=1*im6ck3*_ga*MjAwOTY5NjM2Ni4xNzAyNDk0MjA2*_ga_XQJPQWHZHH*MTcwNjUzNDc5Ni41NC4xLjE3MDY1MzgwNzcuMzguMC4w#community:17/post:ZqPmeB7rRROyPNJLaYeBjA) - [Read](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/?_gl=1*im6ck3*_ga*MjAwOTY5NjM2Ni4xNzAyNDk0MjA2*_ga_XQJPQWHZHH*MTcwNjUzNDc5Ni41NC4xLjE3MDY1MzgwNzcuMzguMC4w#community:17/post:ZqPmeB7rRROyPNJLaYeBjA) - [Makers | Made in 3D Portable Craft Table - Winter Break STEM Project We fired up SOLIDWORKS and came up with a great design for a Portable Craft Table.](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/?_gl=1*im6ck3*_ga*MjAwOTY5NjM2Ni4xNzAyNDk0MjA2*_ga_XQJPQWHZHH*MTcwNjUzNDc5Ni41NC4xLjE3MDY1MzgwNzcuMzguMC4w#community:17/post:svVM7SULRRygjKih2SoUTg) - [Read](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/?_gl=1*im6ck3*_ga*MjAwOTY5NjM2Ni4xNzAyNDk0MjA2*_ga_XQJPQWHZHH*MTcwNjUzNDc5Ni41NC4xLjE3MDY1MzgwNzcuMzguMC4w#community:17/post:svVM7SULRRygjKih2SoUTg) - [Makers | Made in 3D GOLF PUTTER Creative Design Part 3 Welcome back to Part 3 of my Creative Design Process. In this video series I take you through my design process while I design and make myself a new Golf Putter. If you missed the previous phases, you can check out Phase 1 and Phase 2, before jumping back here to continue with PHASE 3!](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/?_gl=1*im6ck3*_ga*MjAwOTY5NjM2Ni4xNzAyNDk0MjA2*_ga_XQJPQWHZHH*MTcwNjUzNDc5Ni41NC4xLjE3MDY1MzgwNzcuMzguMC4w#community:17/post:q01B20aaSYObVdK2hOE20g) - [Read](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/?_gl=1*im6ck3*_ga*MjAwOTY5NjM2Ni4xNzAyNDk0MjA2*_ga_XQJPQWHZHH*MTcwNjUzNDc5Ni41NC4xLjE3MDY1MzgwNzcuMzguMC4w#community:17/post:q01B20aaSYObVdK2hOE20g) ### Learn More – **3D**EXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers ### Learn More – SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers ## ### DIY 3D CAD Software | FAQs #### What kinds of DIY projects can I design at home with SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- DIY CAD refers to using computer-aided design tools for personal, non-commercial projects, enabling you to design, repair, and create at home. You can design home repairs, furniture, tools, gadgets, art pieces, and decorative builds, along with other practical and creative projects, such as phone stands, custom shelves, or replacement knobs**. SOLIDWORKS for Makers** enables you to plan, model, and visualize your ideas before building, making it ideal for personal, home, and hobby projects of any size. #### What makes SOLIDWORKS for Makers better than free DIY CAD software? --- Free CAD tools are suitable for simple shapes, but **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** offers parametric modeling, assemblies, and motion studies for precise and functional builds. It’s the official personal-use version of **SOLIDWORKS**, offering professional accuracy for makers and hobbyists. You can also import or modify STL and STEP files and export formats like STEP or DXF for easy sharing and collaboration. #### Can I design replacement parts or custom fixes for my home projects? --- Yes. You can measure, model, and re-create broken or missing parts such as knobs, handles, or brackets. Test your designs digitally before printing or rebuilding to ensure a perfect fit and reduce wasted materials. #### Can SOLIDWORKS for Makers be used for small inventions or personal prototypes? --- Yes. Whether you’re designing a new tool, puzzle, game or gadget, **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** supports creative prototyping at home with detailed visualization and precision tools, allowing you to refine and test ideas before building. #### How does SOLIDWORKS for Makers help me plan and measure DIY projects? --- You can sketch, dimension, and generate drawings or cut lists to ensure your parts fit correctly and that you know exactly what materials you will need. You can start with simple 2D sketches and quickly transform them into precise 3D models for efficient and accurate home builds. #### Can I test or visualize my DIY design before building it? --- Yes. With motion studies and 3D visualization, you can see how parts move and fit before fabrication, helping you confirm both function and style while avoiding errors or rework. #### Can SOLIDWORKS for Makers handle big DIY assemblies? --- Yes. **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** can manage large assemblies with many parts while running efficiently on standard home computers used for personal projects. ## ### SOLIDWORKS for Makers | FAQs #### How much does SOLIDWORKS for Makers cost? --- **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** costs only $48 USD/per year (or $15 USD/per month), excluding taxes. It’s an affordable way to access the same professional 3D CAD trusted by engineers, now priced for personal, non-commercial use. Whether you’re designing a 3D print, fixing something at home, or working on a hobby project, your subscription gives you full access to pro-grade tools at a maker-friendly price. Subscriptions renew automatically unless you cancel them in your - [My Account](https://go.3ds.com/account) portal. See details in the - [Makers FAQs](https://www.3ds.com/store/faq/makers). #### Is SOLIDWORKS for Makers available worldwide? --- SOLIDWORKS for Makers is currently available with a billing address in: - Americas: Canada, United States - Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom - Asia-Pacific: Australia, India, Japan - Africa/Middle East: Algeria, Morocco More countries will be added soon. #### What do I get with my subscription? --- You can choose between two **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages: - **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** – a browser-based 3D CAD app that works on Mac, tablets, Chromebooks, and Windows. It includes an AI design assistant, rendering tools, motion studies, and easy sharing for quick hobby or repair projects. - **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** – full **SOLIDWORKS** desktop CAD for Windows, with both local and **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform storage, CAM features, and photorealistic rendering. You can install it and work offline for up to 30 days before syncing your data online. Each subscription is sold separately, allowing you to purchase one or both, depending on your specific project needs. Access your tools anytime through - [Start Making](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud), using the same email address you used to subscribe, to ensure your platform links are set up correctly. #### How do I know which offer is best for me? --- If you want the same **SOLIDWORKS** Connected desktop experience trusted by engineers, choose **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers**—it’s ideal for detailed hobby builds and precision work on Windows. If you prefer to design in your browser on a Mac, Chromebook, or tablet, go with **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers**. It gives you flexibility to create anywhere, with **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform access and built-in collaboration tools. Unlike **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers**, **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** does not include **SOLIDWORKS** Connected. Both connect to the **3D**EXPERIENCE platform for easy sharing, version tracking, and secure personal use of 3D CAD storage. #### Is SOLIDWORKS for Makers good for beginners? --- Yes. Both **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages are designed to be easy to learn and accessible for new users. You’ll find all the help you need within your platform’s - [Resources section](https://www.solidworks.com/maker-cloud), which brings together step-by-step tutorials, the - [Getting Started](https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/getting-started) video playlist to learn at your own pace, and the *Welcome App* with tours, videos, tips, and training to help you make the most of your tools. You can also join the Makers - [Made in 3D](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/#community:17) community to connect with others, share ideas, and find inspiration for your next DIY project. #### Can I use SOLIDWORKS for Makers to design for 3D printing? --- Yes. Both **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** packages make it easy to design parts for 3D printing, from simple repairs to detailed hobby builds. You can export your models as STL files and prepare them with any slicer software for printing. Many Makers also combine 3D printing with woodworking, metalwork, or small gadget design, using **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** to bring digital precision to hands-on projects at home. #### Are my SOLIDWORKS for Makers files, formats, or data restricted at all? --- Files created with your **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** account are digitally watermarked and can only be opened using a **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** license. They cannot be opened with commercial or academic versions of **SOLIDWORKS**. This watermark applies to native formats such as .3dxml, .sldprt, .sldasm, and .slddrw. You can work with a wide range of popular CAD formats, including STL, STEP, DXF, and DWG. To collaborate or share your designs more broadly, export them in neutral formats like STEP (.stp) or IGES (.iges) for 3D printing or hobby projects. #### What are the usage restrictions for SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** is intended for personal, non-commercial projects. You can design and even sell parts you create, as long as you generate less than $2,000 USD/per year in revenue. For broader or professional use, you’ll need a **SOLIDWORKS** [commercial](https://www.solidworks.com/how-to-buy/solidworks-solutions) or - [startup license](https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-for-startups-program). There is no direct upgrade path from a **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** license to a commercial one—if you decide to expand your work, you’ll need to purchase both separately. #### Can I use SOLIDWORKS for Makers on a Mac or offline? --- **SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers** runs entirely in your web browser, making it compatible with Mac, tablets, Chromebooks, and Windows. You’ll need an internet connection to access your projects and save your work to the **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform. **3D**EXPERIENCE **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** runs on Windows and can work offline for up to 30 days before syncing online. This flexibility allows you to design at any time, even without an internet connection, and seamlessly update your files once you reconnect. #### Where can I find support and community help? --- - For inquiries about your purchase, managing your subscription, or accessing your **3D**EXPERIENCE platform, please submit an - [Online Support Form](https://www.3ds.com/online-store/support-form/). - For setup and usage questions, visit the Makers - [Support Center](https://www.3ds.com/store/support-center/makers) for guides, troubleshooting, and tutorials. - If you have a specific question or need technical advice, join the - [Maker | Support](https://go.3ds.com/makerssupport) community. - To share projects and connect with other Makers, become part of the - [Made in 3D](https://r1132100503382-eu1-3dswym.3dexperience.3ds.com/#community:17) community, where you can discover creative builds, get inspired by others, and collaborate on personal projects. #### Is there a storage limit in SOLIDWORKS for Makers? --- **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** includes 25 GB of **3D**EXPERIENCE cloud platform storage through 3DDrive and 3DSpace, providing ample capacity for your designs. Features such as file versioning, history tracking, and recovery help keep your personal workspace organized. This is usually more than enough for personal and hobby projects. Currently, storage cannot be expanded, and the 25 GB limit applies only to **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** licenses. #### Can I cancel if I change my mind? --- Yes. For yearly subscriptions, **SOLIDWORKS for Makers** offers a 15-day money-back policy. If you request cancellation within 15 days of your purchase, your order will be refunded in full. Refund requests are not possible with monthly subscriptions, though you can cancel prior to your next monthly renewal. If you are eligible for a refund & cancellation, you can cancel your order directly in your - [Account](https://my.3dexperience.3ds.com/my-account/orders). # Level-Up Your Maker Game Make things your way with SOLIDWORKS for Makers ![Customer service representatives - SOLIDWORKS](/sites/default/filesd10/styles/webp/public/migration/2021-05/solidworks-footer-workflow-design-verification-management-3d-cad-001.jpg.webp) 3D CAD Software for DIY Personal Use- [](mailto:?subject=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/diy-personal-cad) - [](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/diy-personal-cad) - [](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/diy-personal-cad) - [](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?url=https://www.solidworks.com/solution/solidworks-makers/diy-personal-cad)