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PythonSCAD

Design precise 3D models with Python.

PythonSCAD is a script-based 3D modeling application with a full GUI. Write parametric, engineering-oriented models in Python, preview them live, and export to STL, 3MF, and other formats for 3D printing and manufacturing.

Try in browser Get started Tutorial All downloads

No install required — the in-browser Playground runs the full PythonSCAD kernel via WebAssembly.

Step-by-step: building a camera housing in the PythonSCAD GUI

Is PythonSCAD for you?

A great fit if you…

  • think in code and want precise, repeatable parametric models
  • already know Python — or want to learn Python or programming through something tangible
  • need models for 3D printing, CNC, or engineering workflows
  • want the full Python ecosystem: pip packages, your IDE, Jupyter notebooks

Probably not the right tool if you…

  • need organic sculpting, animation, or VFX → Blender
  • prefer click-to-design CAD → FreeCAD

Why PythonSCAD?

  • Python-native — write .py scripts directly in the app; no external code generator
  • Instant visual feedback — see your code become a 3D model as you work; export and 3D-print something you wrote
  • Rewarding for learners — a few lines of Python can produce a useful physical object, which makes programming feel concrete
  • Live preview — interactive 3D view, customizer, and export in one desktop app
  • Powerful geometry — booleans, extrusions, fillets, surfaces, and more
  • Cross-platform — Windows, Linux, macOS, plus a browser WebAssembly build
  • Open and extensible — open source; integrate libraries, scripts, and tooling you already use

From code to model

from pythonscad import *

c = cube([10, 20, 30]).color("Tomato")
show(c)
from openscad import *

c = cube([10, 20, 30]).color("Tomato")
show(c)

Example model rendered in PythonSCAD

Browse the Examples gallery for QR codes, gyroids, GDS import, and more.

Learn more

  1. Download for your platform — or use the button above
  2. Installation — APT/YUM repos, AppImage, PyPI, and build options
  3. Getting Started tutorial — hands-on walkthrough
  4. Cheat sheet and API reference

Community


PythonSCAD is open source on GitHub. It builds on the solid foundation of OpenSCAD and stays closely synced with upstream; Python-specific features are developed here. See Upstream sync.