Open Source 3D Modeling Software
A 3D asset is expensive to make and easy to strand - a sculpt, retopo, or photogrammetry scan represents real hours that vanish the moment a proprietary format or expiring license stands between you and your own mesh. The open source tools here handle modeling, sculpting, procedural work, and photogrammetry while exporting to open mesh formats, so the geometry you built moves freely between tools and stays yours regardless of what any one program decides to charge.
Blender
Free 3D creation suite covering modeling, animation, rendering, compositing, motion tracking, and video editing
Meshroom
Photogrammetry app that turns photo sets into 3D models through a node-based pipeline
OpenSCAD
Script-based solid 3D CAD for precise models, with CSG and 2D outline extrusion
MeshLab
Mesh processing and editing system for large 3D triangular meshes from 3D scanning
CloudCompare
3D point cloud and mesh processing tool for comparing large laser scans and surfaces
Dust3D
Cross-platform 3D modeler for low poly assets, with built-in rigging and GLB and FBX export
Wings 3D
Advanced subdivision 3D modeler inspired by Nendo and Mirai, rendered with OpenGL