OpenSCAD Basics

Loveland CreatorSpace — 3D Modeling Guide

OpenSCAD is a code‑based CAD tool used to create precise, parametric, and highly customizable 3D models. Instead of dragging shapes with a mouse, you write code that defines geometry. This makes OpenSCAD ideal for parts that need exact dimensions, repeatability, or mathematical structure.

1. What OpenSCAD Is

• A free, open‑source CAD tool

• Uses programming to define 3D geometry

• Perfect for parametric designs, mechanical parts, and repeatable models

• Ideal for Gridfinity, brackets, adapters, and customizable components

OpenSCAD is not suited for organic or sculpted shapes — it shines when precision and logic matter.

2. Getting Started

Install OpenSCAD

• Download from openscad.org

• Install the latest stable version

First Launch

You’ll see:

• Code editor (left)

• 3D preview window (right)

• Console (bottom)

3. Basic Syntax

OpenSCAD uses simple commands to create shapes.

3.1 Primitives

cube([20, 20, 20]);

sphere(10);

cylinder(h = 30, r = 5);

3.2 Transformations

translate([10, 0, 0]) cube(10);

rotate([0, 0, 45]) cube(20);

scale([2, 1, 1]) sphere(5);

3.3 Boolean Operations

// Union

union() {

  cube(20);

  sphere(15);

}

// Difference

difference() {

  cube(30);

  cylinder(h = 40, r = 5);

}

// Intersection

intersection() {

  cube(20);

  sphere(15);

}

4. Parametric Design

One of OpenSCAD’s greatest strengths is parameters.

wall = 2;

width = 40;

height = 20;

cube([width, height, wall]);

Changing width updates the entire model — perfect for customizable parts.

5. Designing a Simple Part

Example: A Bracket

thickness = 3;

length = 50;

height = 30;

hole_r = 3;

// Main body

cube([length, thickness, height]);

// Mounting hole

translate([10, thickness/2, height/2])

  cylinder(h = thickness + 1, r = hole_r, center = true);

This creates a simple bracket with a mounting hole.

6. Tips for Printable Designs

• Keep wall thickness ≥ 1.2 mm

• Avoid extremely thin or unsupported features

• Use parameters for easy adjustments

• Preview often using F5 (fast) and F6 (full render)

• Export as STL for slicing

7. Exporting for 3D Printing

• Press F6 to render

• File → Export → STL

• Import into Bambu Studio

8. Common Beginner Mistakes

• Forgetting semicolons

• Using F5 preview instead of F6 render before export

• Creating geometry that overlaps incorrectly

• Not using parameters (harder to edit later)

9. Learning Resources

Recommended Tutorials

• OpenSCAD User Manual

• YouTube tutorials for parametric modeling

• Gridfinity and modular storage examples

CreatorSpace Support

Members experienced with OpenSCAD can help with:

• Parametric workflows

• Customizable designs

• Exporting clean STLs

10. Orientation Completion

Members should demonstrate:

• Ability to write basic OpenSCAD code

• Use of primitives, transforms, and booleans

• Understanding of parametric design

• Exporting a clean STL