FreeCAD
An open-source parametric 3D CAD tool for mechanical parts, product structures, engineering sketches and 3D-print preparation, with workbenches and Python automation.
What FreeCAD is for
FreeCAD is a parametric modeling tool for mechanical parts, product structures, engineering sketches, architecture and 3D-print preparation. Workbenches divide the toolset, while sketches, constraints and feature history keep a model editable.
Plan the model before adding features
A stable model starts with clear units, base planes and constrained sketches. Direct pushing and pulling may be quick, but a feature tree with intentional references is easier to modify. Avoid stacking unconstrained sketches before the main dimensions are known.
Graphics and project boundaries
Blank views or slow rotation can come from the graphics driver, OpenGL mode, model complexity or remote desktop. Project files, exported models, textures and Python macros should have separate paths and backups; macros are executable automation and deserve review.
Maintenance note
This page reviews FreeCAD 1.1.3, parametric sketches, workbenches, OpenGL display, exports and project backups. Content review date: 2026-08-23.
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FreeCAD 1.1.3 installation and parametric modeling
Model a simple part with a hole: create a sketch, add constraints, pad it, add a feature and export a copy while preserving a versioned project file.
Before you start
- Choose the package for Windows, macOS or Linux and confirm stable OpenGL display support.
- Keep model files, exports, external textures and macro scripts in separate directories.
- Decide units, base planes and part purpose before building a complex feature tree.
Installation steps
- 01
Install the matching build
Use the package for the operating system, start FreeCAD and confirm units, navigation and display settings before modeling.
- 02
Choose a workbench
Start with Part Design or Part, confirm the document tree and task panel are visible, and save an empty project as a template.
- 03
Establish the project directory
Store source files, exported models, screenshots and macros separately, and record the FreeCAD version, workbench and external dependencies.
Quick start
- 01
Draw and constrain a sketch
Select a base plane, draw a simple outline, add horizontal, vertical, coincident and dimensional constraints, and watch the remaining degrees of freedom.
- 02
Add a feature and inspect the tree
Pad or pocket the constrained sketch, rename the feature and check that the model updates after a dimension change before adding more features.
- 03
Export a delivery copy
Export a test STEP, STL or other required format, reopen it in a clean view and keep the original parametric project as the editable source.
Usage tips
- Use constraints and named references instead of relying on unplanned geometry positions.
- Test exports on the target CAD or slicer and keep the source project unchanged.
- Review Python macros before running them because they can modify files and automate the application.
Troubleshooting and uninstall
Why is the model blank or rotation slow?
Compare graphics drivers, OpenGL modes, view settings, model face count and remote-desktop behavior. Test a simplified view before changing the project geometry.
Why did a feature fail after editing a sketch?
Check missing references, over- or under-constraints and the feature order. Restore the last working project copy before making several changes at once.
- Archive the projectSave the parametric source, exported copies, screenshots, external files and a record of the workbench and version.
- Remove FreeCADUninstall through the operating system and decide separately whether to keep user preferences, macros and project directories.
Frequently asked questions
What design tasks suit FreeCAD?
It suits parametric mechanical parts, product structures, architecture and BIM work, engineering sketches and 3D-print preparation; the exact fit depends on the workbench and model complexity.
What is the benefit of parametric modeling?
Constraints, dimensions and feature history preserve editable relationships. Direct shape editing can be faster for simple changes but offers weaker associations in complex models.
Why can a FreeCAD view be blank or slow?
Check graphics drivers, OpenGL mode, view settings, model complexity and remote-desktop limitations before changing the model itself.