3
submitted 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago) by IcedRaktajino@startrek.website to c/3dprinting@lemmy.world

I've finally reached a brick wall where I can't just find something on Printables/Thingiverse that I can modify for my use case. Until now, I've been able to find something close and use OrcaSlicer to make small adjustments or occasionally kit bash two models together.

Now, it seems, I need to design something from scratch.

I've had Blender recommended, but I just cannot make sense of it no matter how many Youtube videos make it look so easy.

I've also got FreeCAD installed but am still getting my bearings and nothing has come of it yet.

So, recommendations? The only limitations are that it has to run on Linux and not be a cloud service. I'm willing to pay for a license if need be but no SaaS or having to fight with Wine to get it going.

top 3 comments
sorted by: hot top controversial new old
[-] klangcola@reddthat.com 2 points 1 month ago

Dune3D is a relatively new 3D CAD for Linux. https://docs.dune3d.org/en/latest/ I haven't tried it, but it looks very promising.

Personally, I use FreeCAD, which is leagues better than it used to be, and improving quickly

[-] anguo@piefed.ca 1 points 1 month ago

I wouldn't recommend Blender for anything that needs to have accurate dimensions, as it is a pain to get things right, even with the "CAD" addon.

FreeCAD seems great, but the UI and UX are horrendous. It's a steep learning curve.

If you have any coding experience, I recommend giving OpenSCAD a look, like mentioned in another comment. I believe most of the older Prusa printer parts were designed on it.

[-] DScratch@sh.itjust.works 1 points 1 month ago

Blender and FreeCAD.

Blender for organic, sculpted shapes.

FreeCAD for parametric, accurate parts.

this post was submitted on 08 Jan 2026
3 points (100.0% liked)

3DPrinting

21517 readers
5 users here now

3DPrinting is a place where makers of all skill levels and walks of life can learn about and discuss 3D printing and development of 3D printed parts and devices.

The r/functionalprint community is now located at: or !functionalprint@fedia.io

There are CAD communities available at: !cad@lemmy.world or !freecad@lemmy.ml

Rules

If you need an easy way to host pictures, https://catbox.moe may be an option. Be ethical about what you post and donate if you are able or use this a lot. It is just an individual hosting content, not a company. The image embedding syntax for Lemmy is ![](URL)

Moderation policy: Light, mostly invisible

founded 2 years ago
MODERATORS