# KetchUp: Open-Source 3D Modeling for Woodworking and Furniture Design A browser-based, Rust-powered alternative to SketchUp for precise furniture planning and design. - **Source:** [Hacker News](https://news.ycombinator.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-08 - **Topic:** [technology](https://brifing.si/c/technology) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/cd16ae00-7f05-43a1-9113-0cc94d5dfd10 ## Open-Source Design Tool KetchUp serves as a free, open-source 3D modeling application specifically tailored for furniture design and woodworking. Built using the Rust programming language and WebGPU, it allows users to plan projects like shelves, workbenches, and tables with precise measurements. The software operates without requiring user accounts or any cloud-based storage solutions. ## Cross-Platform Accessibility The application is designed for versatility, running directly within desktop browsers that support hardware acceleration, WebGPU, or WebGL2. Alternatively, users can download native installers for Windows, macOS, or Linux. It is optimized for desktop environments, specifically requiring a mouse and keyboard to ensure efficient navigation and precise geometric control. ## Core Modeling Functionality Users begin by creating simple shapes using lines, rectangles, and circles. The software features a Push/Pull tool to transform 2D faces into 3D forms, alongside standard functions like move, scale, and offset. These tools allow builders to visualize complex assemblies and verify proportions before starting any physical construction in the workshop. ## Precision and Organization To maintain accuracy, the software supports snapping to axes and geometry while allowing users to input exact lengths. Dimensions and tape measure tools are included for inspection. For complex projects, builders can organize their work using groups, components, and tags, ensuring that larger furniture assemblies remain manageable throughout the design process. ## Data Management Workflow KetchUp utilizes local autosave features directly within the browser, though users are encouraged to download portable .ketchup project files to prevent data loss. The software supports importing SketchUp geometry and exporting models as Wavefront OBJ files. Note that textures and specific advanced model features are currently not supported during these imports. ## Technical Implementation Details The project is released under the MIT license, making the source code fully accessible for community review and contribution on GitHub. By leveraging Rust, the developers have created a high-performance tool that avoids the overhead of traditional cloud-based CAD platforms, focusing instead on local, private, and offline-capable modeling workflows for creators. ## Targeting DIY Builders Designed specifically for woodworkers and furniture makers, the tool simplifies the transition from digital concept to physical build. By providing a clean slate for drafting board outlines and testing structural layouts, it helps hobbyists avoid material waste. It bridges the gap between professional-grade CAD software and simple, accessible sketching tools. ## Future Design Utility KetchUp represents a growing trend of specialized, open-source tools that prioritize user privacy and local data ownership. By removing barriers like subscription fees and account requirements, it democratizes access to 3D design. Future utility depends on community contributions to expand its feature set beyond basic geometry and current export limitations. ## Sources covering this story - https://ketchup3d.github.io/app/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._