Abstract: Systems and methods of determining operation parameters for the shadow cast fabrication of micro or nanostructures, the fabrication process using deposition from at least one source over an array of particles, wherein the deposition produces overlapping shadows masking the substrate. A computing device receives a first set of parameter inputs defining particle properties and deposition properties in a shadow cast fabrication, generates data corresponding to a first image for display based on the first set of parameters, receives at least one incremental parameter input that modifies or adds to the first set of parameter inputs, dynamically generates data corresponding to at least one second image for display based on the at least one incremental parameter input, receives an indication that the at least one second image corresponds to a shape ready for fabrication, and generates an output set of fabrication parameters corresponding to the shape ready for fabrication.