Creators typically need CAD (computer-aided design) software to design and print figurines. They use CAD software like SOLIDWORKS for Makers to visualize, build and perfect a 3D model. Then they export the design to the 3D printer to read the file, slice the model and print the figurine.

The most common filament material for beginners who want to 3D print figurines or action figures is PLA, because it’s inexpensive, versatile and easy to print. PETG is another option that’s affordable and easy for beginners, with good heat resistance and strength. NGEN is a material similar to PETG. It has a nice polished finish, but is more expensive. Finally, if you want to 3D print figurines that look like metal or wood, you’ll need composite materials, which are usually PLA that has powder added.

The most common file types for custom 3D printing figures are STL, 3MF and OBJ. STL files are the most widely used and are compatible with many CAD programs, but they only include geometry (data about shape). 3MF files are highly accurate and can store color, texture, material and orientation data as well as geometry. OBJ files store the same data as 3MF, however they may not be compatible with as many programs. SOLIDWORKS for Makers allows you to work with STL and 3MF files, which are compatible with most 3D printing technology.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers lets you check the 3D printer size, orient and scale your model, and run analyses to check for issues like discontinuous edges, small faces, and faces that require support. You can then fix the issues before printing your figurine.

Currently this offer is available for purchase with a billing address within the following countries: Algeria, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Morocco, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. More countries will be added soon.

Files and data created with your Maker account are digitally watermarked and can only be opened with a SOLIDWORKS for Makers license. You cannot open files created with your Maker account within a commercial or academic platform. This digital watermark is added to native 3D file formats, such as .3dxml, .sldprt, .sldasm, and .slddrw. Neutral 3D file formats, such as .stp or .iges can be opened on any platform.

 You can purchase a monthly or yearly subscription of SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers or 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers. Your subscription will be automatically renewed, except for India where subscriptions are not automatically renewed. You can manage your subscription within the “Subscriptions” tab in your “Platform Management” cockpit. You can stop the renewal up to 5 days before your yearly renewal date or up to 5 days before your monthly renewal date. Even if you stop your renewal, you can still use the tools included in your offer until the renewal date, after which time you will lose access. You can always sign up again in the future for a monthly or yearly subscription–please use your same 3DEXPERIENCE ID to re-purchase.

Please visit your new My Account portal. You can manage your subscription(s), update your payment method, view previous and/or pending orders and unfinished carts, and even re-subscribe if your subscription has lapsed. You can also increase the number of your subscriptions (capped at maximum of 5), and request to cancel your subscription. There are also very helpful links, such as a direct link to your maker platform, resources to kickstart your creativity and support links. Make sure to bookmark this helpful My Account link!

Join our Maker Support community to get peer-to-peer support to help you make amazing things.

With SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers an internet connection is always required.

With 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers you can work in an offline mode for up to 30 consecutive days.

Yes, with SOLIDWORKS xDesign for Makers there is nothing to install.

For 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS for Makers, the design app (SOLIDWORKS Connected) cannot be installed on a Mac. It requires a supported version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 on your computer to install. Note that if you log onto the 3DEXPERIENCE platform from a Mac, The SOLIDWORKS Connected app will be missing from your compass. The same applies to the NC Shop Floor Programmer role and Shop Floor Machining app.

However, you can use the design apps included in 3D Creator and 3D Sculptor (xDesign and xShape) as these are browser based applications that are perfect for using on a Mac or an iOS/Android device.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers’ user interface, workflows and commands are intuitive with just a little practice, and we have the Get Started video playlist, online tutorials and makers in our community willing to lend beginners a helping hand.

SOLIDWORKS for Makers is DIY CAD software designed for personal, non-commercial use. If you sell your products and make more than $2,000 USD in profit per year, you will no longer be eligible to use the software.

You will have access to multiple maker communities, including the Maker Support Community, where you’ll find peers and experts ready to answer all your questions, and the Made in 3D Community, where hobbyists around the world share their designs and ideas.