See3D - 3D Printing for the Blind

See3D  organizes the printing and distribution of 3D printed models for people who are blind. Anyone who is blind/has low vision, or is a parent or teacher of someone who is blind, can make a request for a model on our website, www.see3d.org. We then connect with people who have 3D printers and create, and mail the model to the recipient. Our mission is to connect people who are blind and sighted through 3D printing, so all can gain new perspectives. Our programs also include spreading awareness on the importance accessible materials, including braille. Our models frequently include braille labels and descriptions, so people who are blind can explore and understand their model independently. Through touch, people who are blind can have a better understanding of what an object looks like. Common requests are for maps, buildings, snowflakes, molecules, animals and automobiles. 3D printing does not just benefit those who are blind, it benefits everyone because handling a tactile model opens opportunities to discover something new that may not have been as noticeable in a picture, or verbal description.

We are raising money to pay for the 3D printing supplies,  marketing materials, conference and travel fees, website hosting fees, and braille embossing materials. We have already distributed more than 900 models to people who are blind in the United States, and around the world. Thank you so much for your support!


Colorful 3D prints against a black backdrop (white styrene molecule, green zebra finch, orange snowflake, yellow owl, blue cone and red butterfly.

USA political map with braille labels for the postal code. The states are taller if there is more precipitation. Model can be downloaded here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1826175

Cassandra touching a yellow 3D printed Cinderella castle.

iPhone body with interchangeable screens including voicemail, home, and dial screens. There are braille labels for the buttons and numbers. Model can be downloaded here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4197965