The Energon Pub

I'm interested in making some 3-D printer-type stuff for custom work and was wondering what the go-to program was around here. I have a copy of Blender from a friend, but haven't tried it yet and was warned that it's pretty intense. Knowing that there are a lot of options out there for making 3-D models for printing, is there a specific program that's more user-friendly than any other, or better for a variety of models (I'd like to start with TF-style robot parts, like upgrade heads and weapons, but eventually move on to original figures, not necessarily of the action variety)?

Thanks,
Glarryg

I have yet to see a 3D program that's easy to use for someone just getting started. It's the nature of the beast. 3D modelling is complex so the UI is too. I've heard that sketchup is good for noobs but I've never used it myself. Whatever you decide to use, I recommend finding something with tutorials that you can follow to learn to use it. Modeling things like heads (good ones) is something that's gonna take a great while to master. When you do though, it's extremely satisfying and 3D printing provides nearly instant gratification.

Best of luck!

Thanks!

That all depends on what you call 'for noobs'. I'm an avid user of SketchUp myself, but it's taken me some time getting there. All I can say is that I've had a good result printing my Hayden model almost straight from the 3Dwarehouse, with little modification. If you're just starting with 3D, tohugh, it's advisable you download a program that checks if your model is 'water-tight': making sure you completely sealed off the inside from the outside, and to make sure, for example, that you don't have illegal actions in your model (like two cubes touching eachother at one point; the printer doesn't understand that).

If you need help I can be of assistance. Just ask Alas, you can always download the free version of SketchUp, download a model from the 3Dwarehouse and have a look at how the designer made the model. Be advised, though: not all models in the warehouse are of equal quality...