sho_hn3d ago

FreeCAD v1.1

https://blog.freecad.org/2026/03/25/freecad-version-1-1-released/

FreeCAD Version 1.1 Released

After an enormous amount of work and dedication from FreeCAD contributors we are delighted to announce that FreeCAD Version 1.1 is now released and available for download. There are significant amo…

FreeCAD News
Show threadAlupis

Recently one of the magnet holders for my window shutters broke, and I thought I'd take a crack at designing a replacement to 3D Print. I'd never designed anything in CAD software before, so I had no real reference.

I found FreeCAD extremely easy to use and intuitive. I watched a couple videos and followed-along with the tutorials, then started on my own item. It's a relatively simple 3-part component. I took measurements with digital calipers, and in a few hours was printing the first prototype.

A couple prototypes later (small measurement adjustments to account for plastic shrinkage, etc), I had the final model. Replaced all of the magnet holders since they were sure to go soon, too.

I had fun, and finally used my 3D printer for something "real". Pretty cool.

Mar 25 at 9:22pmWeb
Show threadCcecil3d ago

Learning to design parts was a huge "unlock" for me.

Wasn't just printing other people's designs.

Great feeling to measure and design something then have it fit perfectly.

Show threadGigachad3d ago

I just saw a great video on how to replicate parts for printing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcMvTfUfNXo

Previously I'd get my calipers first and try to model using the direct measurements. The key point imo of the video was to take photos and model based on the photos, and then correct the measurements with your recorded measurements second.

You can copy and print perfect spare parts! (Legally) (Probably)

YouTube
Show threadTacticalCoder3d ago

That is the spirit! A friend recommended me to buy a Bambu P2S: there are parts I want to print and I don't want to model then send them to have them printed, nor to bother my friend all the time. Funnily enough I've got magnets falling too: for an alarm system on the doors/windows and they don't hold well anymore after the years. Then my car's radar detection device (fully legal) doesn't fit nicely in the phone holder I use to that effect: I want it a specific angle (I want it both inclined and facing towards me a bit). So I'll model those and just print them. There are a few things like that where I keep thinking: "If I had a 3D printer, I'd just print a part".

Most importantly: I've got a 11 y/o and I think it's cool for the kid to see how it works.

Already watch a few vids. Doesn't look too hard for simple things.

Show thread2muchcoffeeman3d ago

I had a hard time but I didn’t start with the tutorial first.

But once I saw their “philosophy” as it were, everything became so much easier.

Show threadjareklupinski3d ago

for incredibly simple parts that i can describe using measurements, i've had a lot of fun pointing a high-power ai at openscad and letting it iterate through making the design for me

it's still tough to turn it into something i can then keep fiddling with in freecad though

put on "tron: legacy" in the background to fully appreciate the model designing something that will be 3d-printed :)