Updated Course | Intro to 3D CAD with Tinkercad
We're delighted to introduce a completely refreshed version of Intro to 3D CAD with Tinkercad, part of the PrintLab mini course pathway. Tinkercad is a free, browser-based 3D design tool that makes it easy to get started with 3D CAD. Suitable for beginners as well as more experienced Tinkercad users looking to refresh their skills, the course uses a series of hands-on tutorials to explore the fundamental tools and techniques needed to create 3D printable designs.
1st September 2026 • News
Through 11 practical design tutorials, learners follow along in Tinkercad to create projects including a shape sorting toy, geometric chess set, modular pegboard, stationery organiser, measuring tool, assistive bag carrier, phone stand and custom pen shell. Along the way, learners build their skills progressively, covering everything from placing, moving and scaling basic shapes through to grouping, rotating, creating holes, duplicating patterns, aligning, mirroring, sketching and revolving custom forms.
Check out the course trailer below:
What’s Included?
The course begins with an introduction to the Tinkercad workspace, followed by 10 hands-on design tutorials:
- Intro + Navigation
- Place + Move Shapes
- Scaling
- Grouping
- Rotating
- Holes
- Duplicating
- Aligning
- Mirroring
- Sketching
- Revolving
Each tutorial includes a starting model that learners can open in Tinkercad and use to follow along with the video. Key Takeaways are provided to recap the main tools and techniques, alongside optional Try More with AI activities that explore how AI can support different parts of the design process. An optional Bonus Workflow Tips section introduces 35 additional Tinkercad tools, shortcuts and techniques to help learners design faster and more efficiently.
The course concludes with a multiple choice quiz, and learners who achieve 70% or above can download a certificate of completion. For educators, the course can be shared with students using PrintLab’s built-in sharing tools, making it easy to deliver in classrooms, makerspaces and clubs.
Ready to Get Started?
This course is available to subscribers of PrintLab. Learn more about our license options and start a free trial today to access a whole range of resources across the fields of 3D printing, 3D design, assistive technology, product design and STEM.