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Interesting topic, thanks for sharing. It would be even better with original images or media examples to support the points. Do you have any CAD/packaging design examples from real projects that you could add?

In the year 2026, design in packaging is not only all about aesthetics as it has become a strategic business tool. Companies are being put on the pressure to produce more visually appealing, sustainable and functional packaging more than ever. Introduce 3D CAD modeling, the technology that is changing the way that brands conceptualize, prototype and implement custom packaging solutions. In digital prototyping to sophisticated packaging visualization, 3D CAD tools are simplifying work processes, minimizing expense, and offering designers the accuracy like never before. The Market Drivers Behind 3D CAD AdoptionThe traditional ways of packaging are becoming less feasible as the manufacturing and consumer goods industries are facing a number of pressures: Growth in e-commerce: The packages must be strong enough to endure during shipping and be capable of generating unforgettable unboxing experiences. Sustainability expectations: Customers demand materials that are eco-friendly and the least amount of waste, something that requires the brands to develop smarter. Speed to market: The lifecycles of products are shorter and hence there will be a need to have product prototyping and iteration. Brand differentiation: The main characteristic of unique competitive markets is unique packaging design. These forces render the business case of adopting CAD software that will facilitate higher and data-driven packaging development very robust. How 3D CAD Modeling Streamlines Custom Packaging DesignThe 3D CAD model enables designers and engineers to design very detailed computer representations of a packaging with huge benefits compared to the usual 2D sketches or physical models. Digital Prototyping Reduces Time and CostsThrough digital prototyping, the teams would be able to simulate folding patterns, material behavior, and assembly processes before making a physical prototype. This reduces: Material waste from numerous repetitions. Delay in production due to design faults. Costs relating to outsourced mock-ups. An example of this is a beverage company that is creating custom bottles and cartons, which can simulate die-cuts, print finishes, and positioning inserts, all in CAD software and save weeks of prototype time, slicing down to days. Enhanced Packaging VisualizationState-of-the-art packaging visualization allows the stakeholders such as marketing team, up to clients, to view real images of the end product. Features include: 3D, high-quality rendezvous with textures, colors and finishes. Simulations of light to evaluate visual effects. Online presentation of interactive 360-degree models. Such capabilities enhance the communication of the design and ensure that there is alignment among different departments, and costly misinterpretations are avoided. Precision Engineering and Material OptimizationThe 3D CAD modeling enables the packaging engineers to have precision that was not easy to attain before. Benefits include: Proper dimensional modeling: Ensures a snug product insert fit and integrity. Simulation of material: Determines the behavior of cardboard, plastic or sustainable substrates under stress. Weight optimization: Minimizes shipping expenses and carbon footprint through minimizing extra material. As an example, a cosmetics company that relies on a unique packaging can shape the inside of the box to fit jars with a delicate design of glass jars and the smoothness on the outside- all can be done digitally prior to manufacturing. Collaboration Across Teams and LocationsRemote and hybrid work will be the norm in numerous industries in 2026. Cloud based CAD software enables: Several stakeholders collaborate on the identical 3D in real-time. Immediate feedback loops between the marketing teams, marketing teams and the designers Smooth transition to manufactures of precise specifications. Use Cases Across IndustriesThe field of packaging is being revolutionized in various industries by the 3D CAD modeling: Food and BeveragePrototyping of custom cartons, beverage carriers, and flexible packaging can be virtually done, and hygiene and shipping requirements are met. Consumer ElectronicsComplex boxes with custom inserts to fit delicate devices are designed to drop and be attractive, and are then produced. Luxury GoodsThe high-end brands are using digital prototyping to model finishes such as foil stamping, embossing, and textured finishes without having to physically make numerous expensive samples. Healthcare and PharmaceuticalsChild resistant closures, tamper evident packaging and informational inserts are also tested virtually to ascertain its accuracy and regulatory compliance. Such examples indicate that custom packaging boxes design with the help of CAD is not confined to a particular industry- it is a universal tool that enhances efficiency, accuracy and visual appeal. Emerging Trends in 2026 Packaging DesignThe companies are likely to see more innovation as the technology goes on developing: AI-based CAD: Generative design algorithms propose the ideal ones in terms of product size and material limitations. Augmented Reality (AR) implementation: Enables customers to see the packaging in real life environments prior to manufacturing. Practical Business BenefitsImplementing the use of 3D CAD modeling of custom packaging has tangible benefits: Shortened time-to-market: Digital prototyping can speed decision making. Cost efficiency: Waste of material is minimized, fewer physical prototypes, and improved shipping saves on costs. Increased accuracy: Reduces manufacturing flaws and brand inconsistencies. Enhanced teamwork: Cloud-based CAD solutions enhance internal and external communication. Sustainability: The reduced number of prototypes and efficient designs will reduce the environmental footprint. These advantages are directly translated into better ROI, increased customer satisfaction and a better brand image. Selecting the Right CAD Software for PackagingNot all CAD tools are created equal. In selecting software to be used in the design of a package, consider: Parametric modelling: It is necessary to enable rapid modification of a model, without requiring the redesign of the whole model. Library of materials: Ready-made cardboard, plastic, glass and sustainable materials. Image and graphics: Authentic textures and finishing of marketing presentation. Collaboration features: Cloud access and version control by remote teams. Top-of-the-market solutions in 2026 will consist of highly-specialized packaging modules in mainstream CAD systems and purpose-specific packaging software that can be easily integrated into manufacturing processes. Overcoming Adoption ChallengesThe shift to use 3D CAD modeling can be overwhelming to those companies who are used to old techniques of designing. Common hurdles include: Designer/engineer learning curve. Connection with the current ERP or PLM systems. Initial software investment By focusing on specific training, a gradual implementation, and pilot projects, it is possible to address these challenges and speed up the adoption and release the maximum possibilities of digital packaging design. ConclusionBy 2026, 3D CAD modeling will not be a peripheral tool anymore--it will be at the core of developing custom packaging that will address the needs of the market, the requirements of sustainability and the demands of consumers. With the help of digital prototyping, new-fangled visualization, and collaborative cloud systems, companies can save money, speed up timelines, and create designs previously unattainable. Firms that adopt CAD-based packaging today will be able to have a competitive edge in the retail, e-commerce and specialty stores, and their products will be distinguished on the shelf and in the hands of consumers. In the case of manufacturers, design agencies and product-based business, making the investment in 3D CAD modeling of packaging is a tactical move that will be efficient, creative and profitable in 2026 and beyond.

I had a blast 3D scanning and repairing RC boat parts with the @Revopoint3d MetroY Ultra. I think I’ve just unlocked Level 2 of 3D scanning… thanks to a few tricks. 😄 Full article next week.

That's a very helpful post, Marcidy. Thanks. I wish we could cover more about specific printer mods.

Congratulations! 🎉 This post won 1 filament spool in the Contribute to Win - June 2026 giveaway. We will contact you shortly to arrange the delivery of the SUNLU filament spool. Giveaway Rules: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/973-contribute-to-win-monthly-giveaway

Congratulations! 🎉 This post won 1 filament spool in the Contribute to Win - June 2026 giveaway. We will contact you shortly to arrange the delivery of the SUNLU filament spool. Giveaway Rules: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/973-contribute-to-win-monthly-giveaway

🎉 June Giveaway Completed — July Giveaway Is On The Way! Huge thanks to our forum supporters! We're excited to award our filament prize to forum contributors 🙌 🏆 Winning contributions: Ancubic Kobra S1 Experience and Builds: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/65-anycubic-kobra-s1-combo-first-prints-setup-showcase/#comment-1258 Flashforge Creator 5 Discussion: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/1025-flashforge-creator-5-discussion Two SUNLU filament spools are now on their way 🎁 What's Next✅ The July giveaway is live ✅ SUNLU filament spools will be awarded to 1–4 contributors whose posts or comments add the most value to the community and forum. ✅ All helpful & creative contributions count. Share your projects, tips, questions, fails & wins. Every contribution helps grow the community and puts you in the running. If you were considering posting but haven’t jumped in yet, this is the perfect time to start. Sign Up Here https://3dwithus.com/forum/register/

We’ve published an article about Bittele Electronics and turnkey PCB assembly services. The topic may be useful for anyone working on electronics projects, especially when moving from prototype boards to more organised production. Turnkey PCB assembly typically involves sending the design files and BOM (Bill of Materials), with the provider managing fabrication, component sourcing, assembly, inspection, and delivery. Full article: https://3dwithus.com/bittele-electronics-turnkey-pcb-assembly-manufacturing-services Have you ever ordered assembled PCBs, or do you prefer to source boards and components separately? Have you tried BITTELE Electronics services?

Hi! Just saw this topic/review while browsing the forum and I wanted to share my experience as well. I got the printer in 2025/June and I had it printing for more than 500 hours. I mostly printed with all kinds of PLA (silk, matte, coextrusion, gradient, glow in the dark, etc...) and recently PETG (occasionally I tried TPU as well). The default print profiles from Orcaslicer work really well and there is not much more to calibrate. I tried modding it as well, but that wasn't a smooth run: I tried out different hotends and nozzles (even two diamond ones), but all of them underperformed and the original brass nozzle came out on top. What actually improved the printing experience was the Rinkhals community firmware. It grants you full access to the printer: You can change the config (Speed up the color change for the ace pro), see your bed mesh, remote print with Orcaslicer, Mainsail/fluuid webUI, etc... Here is my bed mesh with custom leveling: 8x8 bicubic as opposed to the original 5x5 lagrange method. I also changed the leveling speed. Another really good mod is the Ace Pro riser: It gives you more space to work with. You can also remove the top cover with it. The side panels are even compatible with the Honeycomb storage wall project! (You can check out more about that here) At last but not least, You can check out my prints with the machine here. Most of those makes were printed on this printer (check the tags). Overall it is a great printer for an even greater price and that's why I chose this machine as my first 3d printer. The only downside i can think of is the warped bed (This is the most common problem for users): It has some really low points near the back corners. Edit: I posted about my setup on SUNLU's new community event if you are interested: https://www.sunlu.com/community/posts/323/a-humble-workspace-1-printer-but-60-kg-filament

We recently covered the InfiMaker K1, a desktop 5-axis CNC machine aimed at makers, educators, designers, and small workshops. It is an interesting machine because it combines 5-axis machining, an AI-assisted workflow, a 6-slot automatic tool changer, and an enclosed desktop format. InfiMaker also shows a range of CNC job examples, including metal parts, wood carving, resin/wax-style models, and decorative objects. Here is the full article with more details and sample images: https://3dwithus.com/infimaker-k1-desktop-5-axis-cnc What do you think about desktop 5-axis CNC machines? Useful direction for makers, or still too niche/advanced for most workshops?

Flashforge Creator 5 Hands-On: 4-Toolhead 3D Printer, TPU Shoes, and Multi-Colour Test Prints We have just published a new hands-on article on 3DWithUs featuring the Flashforge Creator 5. This is a 4-toolhead FDM 3D printer designed for multi-colour and multi-material printing with reduced filament waste compared with many traditional colour-changing systems. In this test, we covered setup, calibration, Orca-Flashforge slicer workflow, multi-colour prints, TPU printing, and even a pair of 3D printed shoes. 📹 https://youtu.be/1DOy4EUQpK0 ✍ https://3dwithus.com/flashforge-creator-5-hands-on-review-4-toolhead-3d-printer Featured: MAXSIMO, CloudBerry Toolchangers and nozzle-changing systems are becoming a very interesting area in desktop FDM 3D printing. Machines like the Flashforge Creator 5 show how this technology is moving into a more affordable range, making multi-material workflows more accessible to makers. What do you think about this approach compared with AMS-style colour systems? Feel free to start a new thread or post your C5 makes or questions here.

Sniffing and stretching before the real work starts 🐶 The 3DMakerPro Raven has arrived. Looking forward to putting this LiDAR spatial scanner through its paces. Please share your results and ideas here.

Planning a room makeover, home renovation, or interior design idea? This space is for sharing free and beginner-friendly tools for virtual home design, floor planning, room styling, and visualization. We recently updated our guide to free home design and renovation apps, covering tools for room layouts, 3D interiors, furniture placement, color ideas, and quick visual planning: https://3dwithus.com/the-best-free-virtual-home-design-and-renovation-apps Feel free to post your own projects, screenshots, room ideas, or questions here. Whether you are testing Planner 5D, HomeByMe, Roomstyler, Floorplanner, SketchUp Free, or AI-based visualization tools, it would be great to see what works well and what doesn’t.

Hi! Thank you, thats very kind of you! I would absolutely love some PETG instead of PLA! I got way too many PLA at home now :D (30+ kg). Also after I finished the project I redeemed my points from bambulab for some PETG. Unluckily they just announced 1-2 days later, that they are renewing their PETG Basic with more colors and additives (They pulled the rug on their PETG-HF project). As for request i don't know if SUNLU has them on stock, but bambulab didn't have any orange/green available at the time. So maybe one of those colors? But it's perfectly fine if they send some random filament they have at the ready :) Thank you for the giveaway!

🎉 May Giveaway Completed — June Giveaway Is On The Way! Huge thanks to our forum supporters! We're excited to award our filament prize to forum contributors 🙌 🏆 Winning contributions: Honeycomb Storage Wall: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/1019-honeycomb-storage-wall-finally-finished Missile Launcher Design in Tinkercad: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/1020-elegoo-centari-carbon-discussion/#findComment-1240 Three SUNLU filament spools are now on their way 🎁 What's Next✅ The June giveaway is live ✅ SUNLU filament spools will be awarded to 1–4 contributors whose posts or comments add the most value to the community and forum. ✅ All helpful & creative contributions count Share your projects, tips, questions, fails & wins. Every contribution helps grow the community and puts you in the running. If you were considering posting but haven’t jumped in yet, this is the perfect time to start. Sign Up Here https://3dwithus.com/forum/register/

Congratulations! 🎉 This post won 1 filament spool in the Contribute to Win - May 2026 giveaway. We will contact you shortly to arrange the delivery of the SUNLU filament spool. Giveaway Rules: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/973-contribute-to-win-monthly-giveaway

I recently visited TCT 3Sixty in Birmingham, UK, where I noticed new flexible materials becoming available from consumer filament brands. One example was PEBA by eSUN, shown here as a 3D printed bicycle handle grip. It had a very nice, soft feel. The Adidas 4D shoes displayed at the Carbon stand also had a pleasant, velvety texture. I know these shoes can be expensive. Even printing your own pair on an FDM 3D printer can quickly add up once you factor in quality TPU, failed prints, machine costs, and the time required to get good results. However, this area is moving rapidly, and the collection of free, high-quality shoe designs available for FDM 3D printing continues to grow. Another area of interest for me is scanning our own feet to make them more comfortable. If all goes well, I may try some scanners soon. This one is VivoBiom by VivoBareFoot.

Awesome guide. Very thorough project. This kind of stuff is worth publishing as an article on the main website. I could ask SUNLU to send you 2 spools of PETG this time instead of PLA. Do you have specific requests? (Sorry for waiting patiently until the end of the month.)

Congratulations! 🎉 This post won 1 filament spool in the Contribute to Win - May 2026 giveaway. We will contact you shortly to arrange the delivery of the SUNLU filament spool. Giveaway Rules: https://3dwithus.com/forum/topic/973-contribute-to-win-monthly-giveaway

Revopoint POP 4 hands-on testing: I scanned feet for a scan-to-print shoe-stretcher experiment, tested color scanning, and even used purge towers from 3D printing as DIY marker blocks. This time, I also featured the Snapmaker U1 extensively. Purge towers proved surprisingly useful as marker blocks for 3D scanning. As for the printed foot… Halloween came early.

No spare printers here. Do you want one filament spool? We giveaway them this month.

Hi! 3DWithUs has a list of ongoing giveaways related to 3D printing: https://3dwithus.com/3d-printer-giveaways You could try your luck in one of them.

To the 3d designers, makers, and innovators if you are listening. I think the most meaningful gifts are the ones that spark creativity. Fuel my passion for design and invention. Give a small inventor a 3d printer. I will invent solutions for a lifetime and I promise to print you something amazing in return!https://www.tinkercad.com/things/0OrmEl0sxv0-missile-launcher-design

Hey do you think I could somehow get a free Elegoo Centari Carbon? I've just been wanting a 3d printer since my other toy box 3d printer broke and I couldn't fix it. I spent almost all of the money I could spend on that little 3d printer and when It broke I gave it to a friend. But now I want a new 3d printer that cant break and so that I can make some money. You don't have to do this at all, you don't even have to read this, but if you do I would be so HAPPY and filled with thanks for you giving me a free 3d printer. I hope this comment finds you well. Have a blessed day!

Nice article about the topic. Personally i find 3d printed shoes a little bit pricey. But printing them at home is very interesting. Especially now, when consumer level tool changers are available. You can now print it in multicolor (even with the new technology: color mixing) and with perfect supports without waste. Still wont be a perfect quality, but i would love to have my own 3d printed flip-flops at home :D What would really interest me is, how does PEBA, TPU and SBS compare to each other in this regard.