3D printing can't happen until you have a 3D model you want to print. There are a variety of programs you can use to create 3D models for printing, each with strengths and weaknesses depending on what you want to do. If you aren't interested in modeling, but still want to try 3D printing, there are even sites where you can download models that are ready to print.

What kind of file do I need?

Regardless of which modeling program you use, you will need to export your model as either an .stl or .obj file. These file types are commonly used for 3D printing and nearly every modeling program can export one of these types.

Examples of 3D Modeling Programs

Program	Free/Paid	Taught on Campus? Where?	Notes for 3D printing
ZBrush	Paid	Yes- Illustration	You may need to reduce poly count before exporting.
Maya	Paid	Yes- Entertainment Design
Cinema4D	Paid	Yes- Motion Design
Blender	Free	Not sure.
SketchUp	Freemium	Yes- Entertainment Design	Can be difficult to export clean geometry for 3D printing.
TinkerCAD	Free	Yes- DSNA, Digital Fabrication Class
Fusion360	Freemium	Yes- Graphic Design, Digital Fabrication Class
Meshmixer	Free	No
Rhino	Paid	No

Where can I download models for printing?

Note: models posted to these sites may or may not be suitable for 3D printing. If you have questions about a model you download from one of these sites, please ask before attempting to print.