If you want to make your own models, there are many free programs catering toward all skill levels and ages. The good news is they all work on similar principles. The key difference between the basic programs and more advance programs is they simply add more capability.
Some free programs I have used are:
Tinkercad - A great starter program for someone who has never used 3D modeling software before. Think of it as the digital version of playing with Legos. It is easy to grasp and teaches core concepts of more advanced programs but does quickly run into limitations due to the simplicity. Most folks can get the hang of this program in just 15 minutes. My son (7yr old) made the character above.
Free program
Exceptionally well geared for a 6yr old and up (many schools use this program)
Web based with no software to download and can be used even on very low end machines. Requires a network connection to use.
Great for science projects, figurines, doll-house furniture making
Suited well for artistic endeavors or designs not requiring a high degree of dimensional accuracy
Similarities to more powerful 3D modeling programs made by the same company
Includes self guided and interactive lesson plans to get you started
SketchUp - I used SketchUp for years and designed some pretty cool stuff. Some of the designs on thingiverse.com/makeprintfix were designed with SketchUp. I would recommend this program to folks who want to keep their 3D modeling in the hobby realm or have a specific type of modeling they want to do that matches one of the program's many add-ons. The image above was part of a table I designed for my kids.
Free program for personal use
Suited for beginning designers
Web based with the (pay for) option of local capabilities for those without robust internet connectivity
Unique and innovative interface with low learning curve
Useful tools and add-ons to fit a variety of needs
Good for designs requiring a bit more dimensional accuracy
Fusion 360 - This is the program I use most often since much of my focus is designing replacement parts and functional household items. It is a traditional 3D modeling program but that doesn't mean a boring/bad program. It means it uses more common methodologies and is actually used in major engineering organizations. If you are looking at 3D modeling for a serious hobby and/or want to do it professionally, this is a great option to get familiar with. Above is a do-it-yourself security camera and case based around a tiny computer called a Raspberry Pi.
Free program for personal or entrepreneur use
Suited for intermediate designers or someone willing to watch a few how-to videos
Local program that allows offline editing but storage is cloud based
Traditional modeling program
Intuitive interface with moderate learning curve
Great for designs requiring a high level of dimensional accuracy
Well supported on youtube and educational sites
Able to build assemblies (groups of parts)
blender - Although I do not have much personal experience with this program, many of my friends use it for more "organic" designs so I wanted to at least mention it. It is capable of some serious stuff that drifts more toward the arts / film / computer graphics realms although it can be used for functional items to print out as well.
Free program
Great for those wanting bridge into the film industry making CGI elements
Intuitive interface with moderate to steep learning curve
Comments