This guide provides a beginners introduction for learning to use the free web-based 3D modeling design tool Tinkercad.com.

The following aspects of Tinkercad are explored:

1. Web browser choice and creating a Tinkercad account
2. Workspace set up
3. Mouse control
4. Keyboard shortcuts
5. Working with objects
6. Exporting your design

3D modeling is the process of creating a mathematical representation of a three dimensional surface of a physical object. While 3D modeling used to be a domain for experts, innovations in software development are lowering the barrier for the expertise required to design 3D models. Tinkercad is widely regarded as a tool that simplifies the 3D modeling process while being very powerful at the same time.

HSHSL's Innovation Space provides access to and instructional support for 3D modeling software such as:

• Afinia 3D (desktop)
• MakerBot (desktop)
• Netfabb Basic (desktop)
• Netfabb Cloud (web)
• Tinkercad (web)

These software allow you to create 3D models from scratch and/or modify existing models. When your model is complete it can be printed using the Innovation Space's 3D printers.