@d12dozr said:
Jack, I got my start in 3D printing using Sketchup. I've taught local Sketchup classes for 3D printing, freelanced out my design work, and one of my models graces the official Sketchup 3D printing web page. I've had good success and made some very cool projects, but I'm going to admit sometimes it was at the expense of a LOT of wasted time. Sketchup is still my favorite tool for simpler models but it still pains me at times, the most recent was this weekend creating a simple, relatively low poly part for printing.
Some things make sense to use Sketchup, while others do not. You can nearly always beat Sketchup into doing something, but what is the point if there is a better tool out there already? What are you designing in Sketchup to 3D print?
I'm working off of Baldwin Locomotive Works original drawings, which will be turned into CAD drawings. From there I will be modeling each component of the locomotive to be printed out in 3D for assembly. We will be working in 1/12 scale. This project is for a local railroad museum.
Sure would appreciate your input. Solidworks appears to be the software of choice for most 3D service providers, but the price tag is out of the question for a non profit museum. And I'm not a student to be able to realize their discount. But I believe it's only a discount for a 12 month subscription.
I an really hoping to be able to stay with SketchUp.