Text to CAD — AI STL Generator from Text Prompts

MakeIt3D Text to CAD is an AI CAD generator that turns natural language prompts into precise, parametric 3D models. It writes CadQuery Python code, executes it in a CAD worker powered by the OpenCascade kernel, previews the output in the browser, and exports downloadable STL files for 3D printing.

Unlike image-to-3D tools, Text to CAD produces geometry from written descriptions — no photo required. The output is parametric source code, not just a mesh. Users can edit dimensions, shapes, fillets, holes, and wall thicknesses directly in the code editor and re-run instantly.

What is Text to CAD?

Text to CAD is the process of using an AI language model to convert a plain-English description into CAD geometry. MakeIt3D Text to CAD uses Claude (Anthropic) as the underlying LLM to write CadQuery Python, which is then executed by a secure CAD worker to produce real 3D geometry — not a mesh hallucinated from images, but code-driven parametric design.

How Text to CAD works step by step

1. You type a text description of the 3D part or object you need.
2. The LLM writes CadQuery Python code that models the shape parametrically.
3. A CAD worker executes the code using the OpenCascade modeling kernel via CadQuery.
4. The STL output is previewed in the browser in an interactive 3D viewer.
5. You download the STL and open it in your slicer to 3D print.

Text to CAD vs image to 3D

Image to 3D (also called photo-to-3D or photogrammetry-style AI) reconstructs a mesh from a photograph. The result captures visual appearance but is not dimensionally accurate and cannot be easily modified. Text to CAD starts from a written description and produces parametric source code. The result is editable, dimensionally accurate, and suitable for 3D printing and engineering prototyping.

MakeIt3D offers both: use image to 3D for organic shapes and real objects you want to digitize; use Text to CAD for mechanical parts, brackets, enclosures, and anything where exact geometry matters.

Text to CAD vs Fusion 360 AI and OnShape AI

Fusion 360 Generative Design and OnShape AI tools assist users who are already inside a professional parametric modeler. They require CAD software installation, a license, and familiarity with CAD workflows. MakeIt3D Text to CAD runs entirely in the browser. There is no software to install. A text prompt is the only input. It is designed for rapid prototyping and 3D printing, not for replacing full engineering CAD workstations.

What can you generate with Text to CAD?

• Enclosures and project boxes with custom dimensions and lid fits
• Brackets and mounting plates for wall, desk, or machine mounting
• Gears, pulleys, and simple mechanical linkages
• Adapters, reducers, and connectors for pipes and fittings
• Cable guides, wire clips, and strain reliefs
• Stands, holders, and organizers for phones, tablets, tools, and accessories
• Architectural profiles, decorative trim, and structural blocks
• Furniture legs, joints, and connectors for flat-pack designs
• Custom 3D printing jigs and fixtures
• Parametric phone cases and accessory mounts

Text to CAD works best for geometric, mechanical, and structural shapes. It is not designed for organic forms, sculpted figures, or highly detailed artistic models — for those, use image to 3D.

What is CadQuery and why does Text to CAD use it?

CadQuery is an open-source Python library for building parametric 3D CAD models. It is built on OCP, the Python binding for the OpenCascade Technology (OCCT) kernel — the same underlying geometry engine used in FreeCAD and referenced in commercial tools like Fusion 360 and CATIA. CadQuery represents models as Python source code, which makes it an ideal target for LLM generation: the model can write clean, readable code, users can edit it, and the result is real geometry rather than a hallucinated image.

LLM to CAD — using large language models to generate 3D models

LLM to CAD (large language model to CAD) is the practice of using AI language models to write CAD scripts from natural language. MakeIt3D is an LLM-to-CAD platform. It uses Claude to write CadQuery Python, which is executed to build real parametric geometry. The output is a downloadable STL file — not a scanned mesh, but an engineered model that starts as editable source code.

LLM to CAD is distinct from LLM to mesh. Mesh-generation models (like TripoSG or Hyper3D Rodin) produce a surface from an image or short prompt. LLM to CAD generates code from a detailed text description — the geometry is defined by operations (extrude, fillet, shell, boolean) rather than interpolated from training images.

Prompt examples for Text to CAD

• "A 60mm × 40mm × 25mm box with 2mm walls, a snap-fit lid, and four M3 mounting holes in the corners"
• "An L-shaped bracket 80mm × 80mm with 3mm thickness and two 5mm holes on each arm"
• "A spool holder with a 25mm center bore and two 15mm side walls for a Bambu Lab X1C"
• "A 20-tooth spur gear with module 2 and 8mm center bore"
• "A phone stand with 15-degree tilt, cable routing slot, and rubberized feet pads"

Frequently asked questions about Text to CAD

Can MakeIt3D generate CAD from text?

Yes. MakeIt3D Text to CAD generates CadQuery Python code from a text prompt, executes it to produce real parametric geometry, and exports a downloadable STL.

Is Text to CAD the same as image to 3D?

No. Image to 3D reconstructs a mesh from a photo. Text to CAD creates parametric CAD geometry from written instructions using an LLM. The outputs are fundamentally different in structure, accuracy, and editability.

Which LLM does MakeIt3D use for CAD generation?

MakeIt3D Text to CAD uses Claude by Anthropic to generate CadQuery Python code. Claude interprets the prompt, plans the geometry, and writes executable CAD scripts.

Can I edit the generated CAD code?

Yes. The CadQuery Python source code is shown in an editor. You can change dimensions, shapes, tolerances, and parameters, then re-run it immediately.

What file formats does Text to CAD export?

Text to CAD exports STL files. STL is supported by all major slicers including Bambu Studio, PrusaSlicer, Cura, and OrcaSlicer. The underlying CadQuery code can also produce STEP and 3MF.

Is MakeIt3D Text to CAD free?

MakeIt3D Text to CAD is available to all registered users. Free accounts include generation credits. Paid plans (Light at $20/month and Heavy at $50/month) provide 30 and 100 credits per month respectively.

How accurate is AI-generated CAD for 3D printing?

For standard geometric shapes — enclosures, brackets, adapters — AI-generated CadQuery code is typically accurate enough to print directly. Complex or tight-tolerance parts may need manual code adjustments in the built-in editor.

Does Text to CAD work without installing software?

Yes. MakeIt3D Text to CAD runs entirely in the browser. No CAD software, no Python environment, and no plugins are required.

What makes prompt-to-STL different from other AI 3D generators?

Prompt to STL via LLM to CAD produces parametric, editable geometry. Other AI 3D generators produce meshes from images. Parametric models are dimensionally accurate, repairable, and suitable for engineering and 3D printing workflows.