Introducing Stud.io
Stud.io is a free computer-aided design (CAD) software developed by the LEGO Group. It allows users to create virtual models of LEGO building sets, including custom designs, and provides tools for viewing and sharing those models.
Stud.io features a comprehensive library of LEGO parts and colors, as well as the ability to import custom parts from external sources. It also offers a variety of building tools and functions, such as snapping bricks together, rotating and positioning them in 3D space, and creating complex models using advanced techniques.
One of the key features of Stud.io is the ability to generate building instructions for models created within the software. Users can customize the instructions, including adding steps, annotations, and even images.
Stud.io is available for Windows and macOS, and is regularly updated with new features and parts. It has a user-friendly interface and is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Here are some basic instructions on how to use Stud.io:
Download and install the Stud.io software on your computer from the LEGO website.
https://www.bricklink.com/v3/studio/download.page
When you first open the software, you’ll see a blank work area in the middle of the screen with a toolbar and parts library on the left side.
To start building your model, select the parts you want to use from the library by clicking and dragging them onto the work area. You can use the search bar at the top of the library to find specific parts.
To connect the parts together, use the building tools on the left toolbar. You can use the snap tool to connect bricks together easily, or use the rotation tool to adjust the orientation of your parts.
As you build, you can use the camera tools on the toolbar to adjust your view of the model. You can zoom in and out, rotate around the model, and change the camera angle.
To save your model, go to the File menu and select “Save As.” Choose a location on your computer to save the file.
To generate building instructions, go to the File menu and select “Export Building Guide.” You can customize the instructions by choosing the number of steps, adding annotations, and including images.
These are just some basic instructions to get started with Stud.io. Here are some of the Advanced features.
Custom Parts Editor: Stud.io includes a custom parts editor that allows you to create your own custom LEGO parts. You can import images or 3D models of your parts and define their shape, color, and other properties. This feature is useful if you want to create parts that are not available in the default library.
https://www.bricklink.com/v3/studio/partdesigner.page
Advanced Building Techniques: Stud.io supports advanced building techniques such as SNOT (Studs Not On Top), which allows you to create models with parts attached sideways or upside down. You can also use hinge parts to create movable sections in your models.
Rendering and Animation: Stud.io includes a rendering engine that allows you to create photorealistic images and animations of your models. You can adjust the lighting, camera angle, and other settings to create different effects. This feature is useful if you want to create visualizations or animations of your models for presentations or videos.
Collaboration: Stud.io allows you to collaborate with other users on a shared model. You can invite other users to join your project and work on the model together. This feature is useful if you want to work on a project with a team or get feedback from other users.
BrickLink Integration: Stud.io integrates with BrickLink, an online marketplace for LEGO parts. You can use BrickLink to purchase the parts you need for your model directly from within the software. This feature is useful if you need to order specific parts that are not available in your local store.
https://www.bricklink.com/v2/main.page
These are just a few of the advanced features of Stud.io. The software has many more tools and functions that you can explore to take your LEGO building to the next level.