Visual G-code programming

Visual G-code programming means you snap blocks—loops, math, geometry—instead of typing G1 lines or wiring a dense node graph. The program is readable; the output is still printer moves.

The problem this answers

You think in loops and parameters but do not want a Python notebook or Grasshopper canvas for a vase or lattice.

How people do it without 3dSynth

Scratch-like teaching tools rarely emit G-code. FullControl and similar libraries are code-first. Blockly demos exist; few are tied to FDM profiles and a live 3D path.

How 3dSynth does it

SynthBlocks is the Scratch-style module. The editor and preview are available on Free; export and workspace save are Premium. It shares Print presets with other modules. Docs: overview. Closest neighbor: Node Sculptor (typed graph; export not Premium-gated).

Example

Tutorial 1 builds a circular shape with repeating layers. Open it. Load community programs from the library SynthBlocks section.

When it works

Teaching, readable parametric toolpaths, motifs that are naturally loops. Preview-first exploration on Free; ship G-code with Premium.

When another tool is better

If you already think in Grasshopper-style sockets, use Node Sculptor. If you want a single silhouette plus effects, use G-code Sculptor. If you have a solid that needs supports, model/slice elsewhere.