The 3D view within MLCad is clear but utilitarian. The models are beautifully crafted, and give a sense of what an experienced user can accomplish with LDraw. There are also six architectural models, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Burj Kalifa. There are over thirty Star Wars models, including an X-wing Starfighter, the Millenium Falcon, and more. The included LDView utility lets you see your LEGO models with shading and glossy surfaces.LDraw ships with a large number of ready models to play with and learn from. When you send somebody a complete model, they can then rewind the construction process and watch it step by step, so they can understand what you did or follow along in real life. There is an easy to use toolbar for moving the currently selected block along the X, Y, and Z axes.Īnother major difference in the LDraw file format is that steps are built into it.

Since Lego is grid-based, you don’t just drag blocks in space: Each block moves in set increments, making it very easy to align blocks.

One area where LDraw makes things easier than other 3D applications such as Google SketchUp and Carrara is placing objects. It is divided into rough categories (Brick, Technic, Minifig, and so on), but there is no quick-search feature and subcategories can be very long. I thought I knew Lego, but I had no idea there were this many parts: The list stretches on and on for thousands of items. These are listed in a very long list along the left side of the window. But unlike other CAD or 3D applications, you don’t get to free-form: This is LEGO, so you need to build with real-world parts. Just like most 3D design software, its main viewport is divided into four quarters: Front, Left, Top, and Isometric (or 3D) view. LDraw’s all-in-one installer contains many optional applications and data files which are turned off by default.The construction component of LDraw is called MLCad. This serious collection of tools lets you design virtual Lego-like models based on real parts, and then produce 3D renders, part lists, and printed step-by-step construction guides to bring your creation to life in real-world plastic. If you needed any proof that Lego is not just for kids, just take a quick spin through the free LDraw software suite.

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