FreeCAD is a free and open source 3D parametric modeling tool that allows you to design 3D objects of any size. Parametric modeling makes it very easy to modify designs with revision history of creation so you can change or change parameters with one click.

The main goal of FreeCAD is to allow users to design real world objects. Everything you do in your program uses measurements and units that are applicable in the real world. Of course, these can be customized: centimeters, inches, kilometers, feet… Once you’ve completed one of your creations, simply export the results. You can export it for use in other 3D modeling apps, but you can also create patterns for printing your creations on a 3D printer.

All objects you create in FreeCAD are natively parametric. What does this mean? Its form is very simple as it is based entirely on properties such as values, numbers, texts and even other objects. This way any changes you make to an object are instantly recalculated and recorded in the history. In this way, the integrity of every piece can be preserved and, more importantly, its former form can be restored if necessary.

One of the most important aspects of 3D modeling software is its compatibility with various formats. Here FreeCAD shines in its own light. STEP, IGES, OBJ, STL, DWG, DXF, SVG, SHP, DAE, IFC or OFF, NASTRAN, VRML, OpenSCAD CSG, and FCStd.

FreeCAD is a great 3D modeling software that not only has an overwhelming amount of features, but you can also get tons of tutorials and other features so you can learn to do just about anything. It’s a must-have software.