Cover image via imgsafe.org
One of the reasons why there isn't a 3D printer in every home has nothing to do with price or availability
**It's the fact that if you want to design and print your own objects, you need to know how to use a 3D modelling software.**
Makerbot, the 3D printer brand, has updated its free **PrintShop iPad** app to include a new feature that's easy as drawing, taking a photograph and printing that will **easily convert your hand-drawn sketches into 3D models.**
Even kids can use a 3D printer to produce their own plastic creations without having to master a basic piece of 3D modelling software like Google's SketchUp
It also means that an average person who's interested in 3D printing doesn't have to be limited to the 3D models!
PrintShop app's new Shape Maker functionality is incredibly easy to use
Once you've photographed a sketch or drawing with an easily identified level of contrast, you can adjust a simple slider that highlights what parts of the image will be converted on your 3D model.
When it's already finalized you can modify the scale of your model and adjust its depth, and even choose if one side or the other will be completely filled in.
After that the completed model is wirelessly sent to a **MakerBot printer** through the **Thingiverse** site.
The Shape Maker feature is a major update to the MakerBot iPad app, but also an important stepping stone towards a future where every home has a 3D printer, and everyone living there is able to use it
It's not yet the 'perfect' solution, but users wanting to print precise replacement parts will still need to turn to modelling software, but it should give people interested in 3D printing another solid reason to finally buy one and start using and trying stuff with it.
