Adobe is adding new tools to Photoshop that let users create and edit designs for 3D printing.
Before 3D printers crank out objects, a user needs digital model — either one they create or download from the Internet. One you've got one, though, you'll need software that supports 3D imagery if you want to edit it. As of today, Photoshop users can design, edit and customize those 3D models similar to how you might adjust a 2D picture within the app.

The move is part of an effort from the company to bring 3D printing to the mainstream.

"3D printing has been around for a few decades, but most of the money spent on parts is in manufacturing and dental verticals," Andy Lauta, Product Manager at Photoshop, said during a press call. "As more consumers start to participate in 3D printing capabilities and those buying 3D printers install them in their homes, the 3D market [will grow]. The problem today — prior to the announcement — is that there is a gap between the models out there and what printers need to do to produce high-quality results."
After downloading 3D photo models from online services such as Thingiverse, Photoshop users can add color, adjust the shape or rotate the angles. Artists can also design 3D models from scratch.
"We aren't envisioning Photoshop to compete with other models, but — similar role to what the platform does in the creative workplace — it will be a finishing tool to create and edit," Lauta said.
When a user is ready to print a 3D object, the software will take you through fixing minor flaws in the model (such as patching small holes in the mesh) and preparing it for production. You can also specify the type of material you want to use for printing.
"It takes the hard part out out of 3D printing," Lauta added. "What you see on the screen will be what's printed in 3D. Photoshop now supports a range of 3D printers too, including ones from MakerBot."
The update, available now, requires Photoshop version 14.1 to be installed on computers. It's a free update for Adobe Creative Cloud members ($49.99 a month), as well as Creative Cloud app members ($19.99 each month) and CS3 customers ($9.99). The 3D printing tools can also be accessed for a free 30-day trial period.
MakerBot currently has its own editing platform on the market (MakerWare), a free solution for editing 3D designs.
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