Getting Started: Text to CAD in 60 Seconds
If you've never used a CAD tool before, FreeTextToCAD is designed to get you from zero to a printable 3D model in under a minute. This guide walks you through your very first generation.
Step 1: Open the App
Navigate to freetexttocad.com. You'll see the workspace: a dark sidebar on the left for entering your prompt, and a 3D viewport on the right where your model will appear. No sign-up, no download, no setup required.
Step 2: Write a Simple Prompt
In the text area, type a description of something you want to build. For your first model, keep it simple. Try:
A 50×30×8mm rectangular box with a 4mm hole in the center.
The key ingredients of a good beginner prompt are: a shape type, dimensions in millimeters, and one or two features (holes, cutouts, etc.).
Step 3: Generate
Click the blue Generate 3D Model button, or press ⌘ + Enter (Mac) / Ctrl + Enter (Windows). The status bar at the bottom will update as the AI generates code, compiles it, and renders your model. This typically takes 5–15 seconds.
Step 4: Inspect the Model
Your model appears in the 3D viewport. You can:
- Orbit: Click and drag to rotate
- Zoom: Scroll wheel or pinch on trackpad
- Pan: Right-click drag
Check that the shape looks correct from multiple angles. If the model isn't quite right, you'll have a chance to refine it.
Step 5: Approve or Refine
After generation, three buttons appear at the bottom of the viewport:
- Looks good: Accept the model and unlock export
- Improve further: The AI analyzes renders of your model and auto-refines it
- Give feedback: Type specific changes you want made
For your first model, click Looks good to proceed.
Step 6: Export
Click the green Export STL / OBJ button in the left panel. Choose STL for most 3D printers. The file downloads to your computer, ready to open in Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio, or any slicer.
What's Next?
Now that you know the basics, try building something more complex. Read our guide on writing effective prompts to learn techniques that produce more accurate results, or browse our full guide library for specific topics.