3DMake GUI: Accessible 3D Modeling for the Classroom

3DMake GUI: Accessible 3D Modeling for the Classroom

3D modeling and printing are powerful tools for STEM education, but most software is not accessible to blind or low-vision students. 3DMake GUI bridges this gap, providing a screen-reader-friendly, keyboard-accessible interface for creating, editing, and exporting 3D models. Teachers and students can now participate fully in 3D design projects without technical barriers.

Why 3DMake GUI helps

• Removes accessibility barriers in 3D modeling for blind and low-vision students.
• Enables independent project work with keyboard and screen reader support.
• Simplifies complex command-line workflows into easy, guided actions.
• Supports inclusive classroom activities in STEM and maker education.

What students gain

• Confidence using professional 3D modeling tools.
• Skills in editing, previewing, and exporting 3D models.
• Experience with accessible technology and real-world design workflows.
• Opportunities to collaborate on projects with sighted peers.

Features

3DMake GUI wraps the 3dm command-line tool in a two-panel interface:

• Project and file selection for easy navigation.
• One-click quick actions for common 3DMake workflows.
• Built-in source editor for .scad and config files.
• Live log with streamed command output.
• Accessible popups for command results.
• SVG and STL preview viewers with keyboard controls.
• Printer and profile management.
• Release-friendly packaging for easy deployment.

The GUI complements the CLI, allowing advanced users to drop down to custom commands as needed.

Classroom use cases

• Weekly 3D modeling assignments with accessible editing and preview.
• Independent project work for students using screen readers.
• Collaborative design challenges where all students can participate.
• Quick review and export of student models for printing.
• Teacher-led demonstrations of 3D workflows using accessible tools.

Teaching tips

• Introduce the GUI with a guided tour of keyboard shortcuts.
• Encourage students to use the built-in editor for all model changes.
• Use the live log and popups to review command results together.
• Assign projects that require both editing and previewing models.
• Remind students to save work frequently and use the versioning tools.

Getting Started

1. Clone the repository:

   git clone https://github.com/mrhunsaker/3dmakeGUI.git
   cd 3dmakeGUI
   uv sync --all-extras
   

2. Launch the app:

   uv run python -m tdmake_gui_wrapper
   # or
   uv run 3dmake-gui
   

See the published documentation for full details.

Customization and contribution

You can extend 3DMake GUI by:

• Creating custom templates or lesson plans.
• Sharing assessment rubrics or export scripts.
• Reporting issues or suggesting features on GitHub.
• Submitting pull requests to improve accessibility or add classroom features.

We welcome contributions from teachers, students, and developers. Let’s make 3D modeling accessible for everyone!

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