Workflow
Design for printing without reducing the job to a slicer mesh
PurCad keeps a parametric design and real built geometry upstream of the print file. You can correct dimensions, inspect checks and regenerate the export instead of patching triangles after every revision.
State the manufacturing constraints
Include material intent, minimum wall, required clearances, support-sensitive holes and load direction. Describe how the part is mounted and which surfaces must fit another object. These facts matter more than a generic request to make something printable.
Generate, orient mentally and refine
Build a first version, inspect the world axes and use section view to understand internal geometry. Adjust named dimensions or request one focused feature change. Preserve earlier versions while the print orientation and interfaces are still being decided.
Check geometry before opening the slicer
PurCad reports built bounds, solid count, blocking issues and risk assumptions. Choose STL for broad slicer compatibility or 3MF for a modern packaged mesh workflow; keep STEP when another CAD tool or CAM stage needs solid geometry.
Printability still depends on the machine and material
A watertight file does not guarantee acceptable overhangs, strength, shrinkage or layer adhesion. Review the model in the target slicer and test critical fits. Load-bearing parts require material-specific design and physical validation.