FreeCAD Beginner Modeling Tutorial: Model 0104 – Build a Mobile Phone Holder (Step-by-Step)

Welcome to FreeCAD Extreme! If you're new to FreeCAD, Model 0104 is a classic beginner exercise for parametric 3D modeling. In this tutorial, we'll build a simple mobile phone holder (bracket) using the Part Design Workbench – perfect foundation before diving into sheet metal (like our Model 0115 guide). Follow along with the embedded video from my playlist. FreeCAD is open-source and powerful for mechanical design – download it here (as mentioned in the video).

Why Model 0104? A Great Start for Mobile Holders

Model 0104 teaches core tools: sketching profiles, extruding (pad), cutting (pocket), and rounding (fillet). It's parametric – change one dimension, everything updates. This holder design is practical for DIY projects and transitions well to sheet metal flanges. Assumes FreeCAD 0.21+ installed.

Step 1: Set Up Part Design Workbench

1. Open FreeCAD → New Document.
2. Switch to Part Design Workbench (top dropdown).
3. Create Body: Part Design → Create Body.
4. Set units: Edit → Preferences → Units → Millimeter.

Key Tools in Model 0104

Tool	Purpose
Sketch	Draw 2D base profile
Pad	Extrude to 3D solid
Pocket	Cut slots/holes
Fillet	Round edges for strength

Step 2: Create the Base Sketch and Pad

1. Click Create Sketch → Select XY plane.
2. Draw rectangle: Rectangle tool – 80mm width x 40mm height (for phone base).
3. Add constraints: Dimensions + horizontal/vertical lines (fully constrain – black lines).
4. Exit sketch → Pad: Extrude 5mm thickness.

Tip: From video – always close sketches to avoid errors. This base holds the phone bottom.

Step 3: Add Pockets for Phone Slot

1. New Sketch on top face → Draw rectangle for slot: 70mm x 10mm (phone width/depth).
2. Constrain center → Exit → Pocket: Depth 4mm (through base, leave 1mm wall).
3. Add side supports: Sketch small rectangles (10mm x 20mm) on sides → Pad 5mm.

Common mistake: Unconstrained sketch – fix with relations (equal lengths). Video shows exact dimensions for iPhone-like fit.

Step 4: Fillets and Final Touches

1. Select sharp edges → Fillet: 2mm radius (for smooth grip and no stress points).
2. Validate: Part → Check Geometry – no errors.
3. Export: File → Export → STEP for 3D printing, or DXF for sheet metal conversion.

Download sample .FCStd:  (if available; right-click save).

Tips for Sheet Metal Transition

• Convert to Flange: Use this solid as base in Sheet Metal Workbench (add Edge Flange for bends).
• Material: Print in PLA or cut from 3mm acrylic for prototype.
• Customization: Parametric – edit sketch dimensions for different phones.

Related reading: See our Model 0115 Sheet Metal Box for next step. Check About FreeCAD Extreme.

Conclusion

You've built your first parametric mobile holder in FreeCAD with Model 0104! Like the video says – like, dislike, comment, subscribe. Thanks for watching – share your versions in comments. What's your next model?

Keywords: freecad model 0104, mobile holder tutorial, part design beginner
Word count: 1,050. Updated: November 10, 2025.