05-08-2013, 07:58 PM
alejandro,
I would say that Wings3D is perfect for making 3d printable objects. It meets all the criteria you list.
I have not done any 3d printing but Wings will not let you produce a non-manifold model. That is assuming you do not use the .Hole command to make holes....
I think that being a subdivision modeler allows you to have a low poly model that you can smooth to a higher poly count on export or preview with smooth preview. When I last worked with Sketchup (it has been years) it was difficult to get nice smooth curves needed for organic models. Someone else can probably explain better...
Sketchup will let you build a model face by face and also extrude a shape along a path. Wings requires a closed mesh that you mold like clay. Those who have used poly modelers get frustrated at first but once you understand the power of subdivision modeling (box modeling) I think you will love it. Wings may not be able to handle as many polys as Sketchup or Blender but since you can subdivide on export you can avoid those issues most of the time. There is a new 64bit Wings in the works that helps to some degree with the issues of high poly counts.
The learning curve for Blender is much greater than it is for Wings3D. Many use Wings3D to create their models and then use Blender to add details.
oort
I would say that Wings3D is perfect for making 3d printable objects. It meets all the criteria you list.
I have not done any 3d printing but Wings will not let you produce a non-manifold model. That is assuming you do not use the .Hole command to make holes....
I think that being a subdivision modeler allows you to have a low poly model that you can smooth to a higher poly count on export or preview with smooth preview. When I last worked with Sketchup (it has been years) it was difficult to get nice smooth curves needed for organic models. Someone else can probably explain better...
Sketchup will let you build a model face by face and also extrude a shape along a path. Wings requires a closed mesh that you mold like clay. Those who have used poly modelers get frustrated at first but once you understand the power of subdivision modeling (box modeling) I think you will love it. Wings may not be able to handle as many polys as Sketchup or Blender but since you can subdivide on export you can avoid those issues most of the time. There is a new 64bit Wings in the works that helps to some degree with the issues of high poly counts.
The learning curve for Blender is much greater than it is for Wings3D. Many use Wings3D to create their models and then use Blender to add details.
oort