# I have never used a piece of CAD software, but this is awesome. Well done

**URL:** <https://discourse.shapr3d.com/t/i-have-never-used-a-piece-of-cad-software-but-this-is-awesome-well-done/29567>\
**Category:** Modeling Questions\
**Created:** [December 27, 2023, 10:50am UTC](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/t/i-have-never-used-a-piece-of-cad-software-but-this-is-awesome-well-done/29567 "2023-12-27T10:50:13Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 1\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![oviano](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/o/b38774/32.png) [@oviano](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/u/oviano)\
**Post date:** [December 27, 2023, 10:50am UTC](https://discourse.shapr3d.com/t/i-have-never-used-a-piece-of-cad-software-but-this-is-awesome-well-done/29567/1 "2023-12-27T10:50:13Z")

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…everything seems pretty intuitive. I know how hard this stuff is to get right (I have a lifetime experience in video games development, football management games to be precise so I know all about how hard it is trying to present a complex simulation in an intuitive UI) but I’ve managed to import an existing STEP file for a mini computer case and modify it to my needs:

- added some cutouts for more ports, importing other STEP file for PCB/carrier board components and making sure everything is aligned correctly.
- changed some elements I found aesthetically displeasing or didn’t need
- cut some additional holes for ventilation
- etched some text onto it

I have literally spend 48 hours having never touched CAD software in my life (it always looked ridiculously complicated and I never had the need to learn) but this software has left me feeling empowered. I’ve even ordered a 3D printer now so I can print my case. I think I might have discovered a new hobby 😃

I would say that the initial automated tutorial video showing the basics like navigating/rotating/panning/extruding/visualise etc and getting me to copy the demonstrated action was critical in getting me hooked as it saved my having to figure it out myself and potentially getting frustrated.

I noticed there isn’t a quick and easy option to create a thread for a screw; I can see others have requested this for some time and I echo their sentiments. At the moment I will use smaller holes and self-tapping screws. Hopefully this will be good enough for now!

It’s expensive for sure; I’m on the 14 day trial but I’m likely to pay for a year as apart from being useful this is also serious fun!

Well done to all concerned.