Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google


Updated MakerBot App Turns 2D Images Into 3D-Printable Files

MakerbotThe free iPad app MakerBot PrintShop version 1.5 is now available in the iTunes App Store. Version 1.5 offers a new feature called Shape Maker that turns 2D images into 3D-printable files. Designed for beginners who want to get started quickly with 3D printing, Shape Maker allows users to transform sketches, photos and screen captures into files that can then be sent to a variety of MakerBot printers. 

To get started with Shape Maker on MakerBot PrintShop, users open the app, select Shape Maker and use the iPad’s camera to snap a photo of a drawing or an item that has a distinct contrast and simple lines. The slider tools help select the areas of the drawing to 3D print and scale. When all of the items or lines to be printed turn green, users can choose a background and then select print or save right from the screen. 

Saved files are stored in the MakerBot Cloud Library and can be accessed through personal accounts on Thingiverse, the design site for viewing, sharing and 3D printing digital designs. Files can be sent via WiFi directly to a MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3D Printer, MakerBot Replicator Mini Compact 3D Printer or a MakerBot Replicator Z18 3D Printer. 

 To see a video of Shape Maker for MakerBot PrintShop in action, click here.

About the Author

Christopher Piehler is the former editor-in-chief of THE Journal.

Featured

  • elementary schoolchildren using digital tablet in classroom

    CoSN: 3 Principles that Should Guide Screen Time Policies in Schools

    CoSN, the professional association for K-12 education technology leaders, has released new guidance to help schools navigate the screen time debate and develop technology policies that protect students while supporting learning.

  • Students using laptops in classroom

    Stop Asking Whether Students Can Use AI

    As generative AI has become embedded in the tools students use to search, write, create, translate, organize, and receive feedback, the boundary between "using AI" and "not using AI" has become increasingly difficult to define. More importantly, treating AI use as a binary choice does little to help students understand the different roles AI can appropriately play in learning.

  • Girl playing video games

    5 Lessons Video Game Designers Can Teach Educators About Learning

    Video game designers spend an enormous amount of time studying what keeps people engaged when something becomes difficult. They have become very good at helping people persist. Schools should pay attention.

  • education funding and graduation symbols on wooden dice

    What Is the Education Freedom Tax Credit and How Will It Work?

    The federal Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC) is a new source of funding for education that could benefit 90% of students in states that have opted in to the program. However, some confusion and misconceptions exist surrounding details of the program, including which programs may qualify, how parents can apply for scholarships, and how public school students can benefit.