I now use 3D builder on all my models to check for errors and to repair or ready them for the physical act of 3D printing. The design of 3D Builder is somewhat lacking.

Using the split function in 3D builder you can slice a model into a number of smaller parts along certain planes or axis to reduce the need for support or to eliminate overhangs.

Microsoft said the 3D Builder, the company's first 3D printing application for Windows 8.1, which lets you create almost anything, is available for free.

Companies like ICON and SQ4D are using 3D printing to build houses at half the cost and in half the time it takes to build traditional houses.