How to Slice a 3D Model in Meshmixer: 1 Minute to Mastering 3D Model Slicing with Meshmixer

Meshmixer is a versatile and user-friendly software that allows designers, makers, and hobbyists to edit, repair, and modify 3D models with ease. Slicing a 3D model in Meshmixer is a crucial step if you want to separate an object into parts—either for 3D printing, modifying, or analyzing its structure. Here’s a straightforward guide on how to slice a 3D model using Meshmixer:

1. Open your model: Launch Meshmixer and import your 3D model (File > Import).
2. Select the “Plane Cut” Tool: Navigate to the Edit menu and click on “Plane Cut.” This tool allows you to define a slicing plane anywhere on your model.
3. Adjust the Cutting Plane: A cutting plane will appear on your model. Use the rotation handles and arrows to move and orient the plane exactly where you want to make the cut. The preview shows how the slice will impact the model.
4. Choose the Cut Type: In the menu, select whether you want to keep both sides (“Slice (Keep Both)”) or just one. If you're prepping pieces for printing and assembling, keeping both can be useful.
5. Apply the Cut: Once satisfied, click “Accept” to make the slice. Each part of the model will now be a separate object, which you can further manipulate or export as individual files.
6. Export and Further Edit: When slicing is complete, you can select and export sections (Export > .STL or .OBJ) or use additional tools in Meshmixer for more modifications.

As a designer, I find that visualizing how different parts of a model relate to each other—and planning cuts accordingly—offers more creative control, especially when prepping prototypes or custom furniture pieces. For even more streamlined and intuitive approaches, you might explore specialized tools like a 3D Floor Planner that integrate slicing and spatial visualization, saving time and improving workflow for complex projects.

Tips 1:

Before applying the final slice in Meshmixer, always duplicate your model. This ensures you have a backup untouched by edits, which is invaluable if you need to revert or try different slicing strategies.

FAQ

Q: Can Meshmixer slice models for 3D printing multiple parts?

A: Yes, you can slice models into separate pieces that can be exported and printed individually.

Q: How do I align the cut precisely in Meshmixer?

A: Use the rotation and translation handles on the plane cut tool to position the slicing plane exactly as needed.

Q: Is it possible to slice more than once on the same model?

A: Absolutely. You can repeat the Plane Cut process as many times as needed to achieve the desired segmentation.

Q: Will Meshmixer automatically repair surfaces after slicing?

A: Meshmixer does a basic repair, but you may need to use the “Inspector” tool to fix more complex holes or gaps after cutting.

Q: Can I join the sliced parts again in Meshmixer?

A: Yes, use the “Combine” tool to merge pieces, but ensure the meshes align perfectly to avoid artifacts.