# Getting Started

To get started using the Metafold REST API you must have received an invitation to
create an account on the Metafold platform. Please contact [info@metafold3d.com][] if
you have a business need that you think we can help with.

# Client Libraries

We currently have client libraries for Python and Node.js that make interacting with the
Metafold REST API much simpler.

| Language | Source |
| --- | --- |
| Python | [metafold-python][] |
| Node.js | [metafold-node][] |

We recommend using one of these libraries to stay up-to-date with API changes and
conveniently handle [authentication](/authentication).

# Manual

You are otherwise free to make API requests in your HTTP client of choice, ensuring the
following:

- Parameters for `GET` requests are encoded as a **query string** in the URL, e.g.
  `https://api.metafold3d.com/projects/1/assets/1?download=true`
- Parameters for `POST`/`PATCH`/`PUT` requests are encoded in the request **body** as
  `application/json`, or `multipart/form-data` for endpoints that receive file data.

You are also required to include an [`Authorization` header][auth header] in your
request. This is typically handled for you by one of our [client
libraries](#topic-client-libraries). For more details please see
[Authentication](/authentication).

[auth header]: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/HTTP/Reference/Headers/Authorization
[info@metafold3d.com]: mailto:info@metafold3d.com
[metafold-node]: https://github.com/Metafold3d/metafold-node
[metafold-python]: https://github.com/Metafold3d/metafold-python