BlocksCAD
by BlocksCAD
What BlocksCAD is
BlocksCAD is teacher-designed 3D modeling software that uses block-based programming to teach geometry, mathematics, and computer programming. It runs in a browser on notebooks, Chromebooks, and tablets through Chrome or Firefox. The workspace provides parametric modeling, a built-in render engine, and STL export for 3D printing. Students can use variables, loops, randomness, conditional logic, and modules to create models. BlocksCAD for Education lets educators create classes, manage student accounts, inspect or edit student code, and view time spent on designs. Its lessons cover grades 3–12, including introductory material, Common Core math-aligned lessons, CSTA standards-aligned lessons, and custom lesson creation tools. Educators can import Google Classroom courses and download student STL files. BlocksCAD is based on OpenSCAD, described as an open-source programming language used in the 3D maker community. Support includes skills videos, an online Basics course, team assistance, and online or in-person professional development. The Basic Account costs nothing; the pricing note also lists open source and a 30-day trial.
Who it suits
It suits educators, students, makers, and parents, with lessons aimed at grade 3 and above. Schools can use the education dashboard and standards-aligned materials for classroom projects.
What it does well
- Block-based interface teaches geometry and programming
- Runs in Chrome or Firefox on tablets
- Exports STL files for 3D printing
- Education dashboard manages classes and student accounts
- Includes grades 3–12 lessons and custom lesson tools
What to know first
- Browser access is limited to supported Chrome or Firefox setups
- Student data collection can include personal details
- The listed trial period is 30 days
Plans
| Plan | Billed and limits | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Account | Create a BlocksCAD account | Free |
As blockscad3d.com lists them, read 12 Oct 2026. The maker's own page has the final word.
Verdict
BlocksCAD combines visual programming with 3D modeling and classroom management, making it suitable for structured learning and 3D-print projects. Educators should review browser requirements and the education privacy details before creating student accounts.
Facts from BlocksCAD's own pages
- 3D printing
- Educators can download students’ STL files for use with a 3D printer. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Audience
- The site describes BlocksCAD as suitable for educators, students, makers, and parents, with lessons aimed at grades 3 and up. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Browser support
- BlocksCAD can be used in Chrome or Firefox on notebooks, Chromebooks, and tablets. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Data collection
- The privacy policy says account creation may collect a username, country, birth month and year, gender, and email address, or a parent or guardian’s email for users under 14. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Education dashboard
- BlocksCAD for Education lets educators create classes, manage student accounts, view and edit student code, and see how long students spend on designs. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- FERPA
- The privacy policy states that BlocksCAD is FERPA compliant and does not share student information with third parties. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Google Classroom
- The Education interface includes an option to import Google Classroom courses. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Headquarters
- Burlington, Massachusetts, United States · blockscad3d.com, 28 Sept 2026
- Lessons
- The Education offering includes lessons for grades 3–12, including introductory, Common Core math-aligned, and CSTA standards-aligned lessons, plus tools to create custom lessons. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Open-source basis
- BlocksCAD is based on OpenSCAD, which the site describes as an open-source programming language used in the 3D maker community. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Parametric modeling
- Yes · blockscad3d.com, 21 Sept 2026
- Platform access
- browser · blockscad3d.com, 21 Sept 2026
- 3D print export
- Yes · blockscad3d.com, 21 Sept 2026
- Privacy and security
- The privacy policy says BlocksCAD uses administrative, physical, and technical safeguards and that sensitive student data are stored in ways that are not publicly accessible; it also states that security audits are regularly performed. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Programming features
- Students can use variables, loops, randomness, conditional logic, and modules to create 3D models. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Purpose
- BlocksCAD is teacher-designed 3D modeling software that uses a block-based programming interface to help students learn geometry, math, and computer programming. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
- Render engine
- built-in · blockscad3d.com, 21 Sept 2026
- Support and training
- The Education page lists support from the BlocksCAD team, skills videos, an online Basics course, and online and in-person professional development options for schools. · blockscad3d.com, 12 Oct 2026
Where BlocksCAD stands on Freedom251
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