Making
BlocksCAD
Kids snap together code blocks that build 3D shapes and objects, ready to send to a 3D printer.
BlocksCAD sits where coding meets 3D design. Rather than dragging shapes with a mouse, kids assemble a model from code blocks: a cylinder this tall, shifted over here, with a sphere cut out of it, repeated six times around a circle. The 3D view refreshes as they work, so they can spin the model and see what each block changes. Since the whole design is code, a keychain or chess piece can be resized by editing a single number, and a loop can turn one tooth into a complete gear. Math ideas like coordinates, angles and measurement come up constantly, almost by accident. Designs are meant for 3D printing, so a project can end up as a real object on the desk. It looks pitched at upper primary and middle schoolers, and younger kids may find the number-heavy blocks a stretch at first.
- Ages
- Upper primary and middle school designers
- Works on
- Web browser
- Topics
- Making, Coding, Math
- Languages
- English
- Listed
- 2026-10-18
What kids do
- Stack blocks to build a 3D shape
- Use a loop to make a gear or flower
- Change one number to resize a whole model
- Design a keychain ready to 3D print
Who it suits
Upper primary and middle school designers.
Notes for parents
Works in a web browser without any installation. It is run by the BlocksCAD Initiative, a nonprofit whose lessons span grades 3 through 12.
What you need
- Computer with a web browser
- 3D printer for printing designs (optional)
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