ideaMaker is a powerful 3D slicing application that prepares your 3D models for printing.

Slicing a 3d model means to take your 3d design, generally an.STL file, and break it down into individual layers deciding on the height, width, and other parameters needed for your 3D printer to be successful; that is then output into "code," which your printer uses to create the item.

ideaMaker does just that at a high level. ideaMaker is designed to work with Raise3D's line of 3D Printers, but you can easily set up whatever 3D Printer you currently own. It comes with a bucket load of predefined printer settings, including our trusty Artilary Sidewinder large format and more that their community has designed.

At first, it felt like the printer configuration items were a bit limited compared to something like Ultimaker Cura. However, we then noticed there is a + icon where you can add hundreds of settings as you like them. This is nice as the interface is not cluttered with items you do not want, need or help with your print.

The interface will feel comfortable and intuitive if you have used a slicer before. You will also find very useful features like adding manual supports and a "Free Cut" option that will let you cut your print into multiple parts or if you want just a single part of the imported object.

There is also a nice-looking feature called "texture," allowing you to add predefined or custom textures to your model, which can create some interesting effects for otherwise boring prints (Pencil holder, anyone?)

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