3D designer in 45 days

In this module, you will learn how to use NURBS curve tools. Curves are the foundation of surface modeling. We will create two logos and get acquainted with tools for creating closed curves. Then, we will use the curves to construct a solid by extruding the closed areas. At the end of this topic, you’ll find interesting exercises to enhance your understanding of curves as the basis for surfaces.

This module covers the basic tools for creating surfaces. We will divide this material into two groups: NURBS surfaces and SubD – a new set of tools for creating organic, amorphous 3D objects. Surface creation tools – five commands that give you freedom in modeling. After creating surfaces, you need to join them using blending and analysis tools like Zebra. By watching the videos in this module, you will reach a new level of mastery in the program. Introduction to SubD tools continues in the next lesson. The exercise might surprise you with examples of applying parametric Grasshopper algorithms and teach you to use UV unfolding for transferring textures from a plane to a curved surface.

In this module, you will get acquainted with the new logic of construction – SubD surfaces. It differs from NURBS and is closer to polygonal modeling. You will see and try how SubD works. Model elements are selected using filters: points, edges, surfaces. By editing basic shapes, you will create a finished form in several stages, and at each stage, you can modify it using selection filters and floating points or edges. Additionally, these tools will teach you to use the manipulator and help develop spatial perception of objects. After watching all the videos in this topic, you will become a 3D designer proficient in two different construction technologies – classic surface modeling and SubD with polygonal modeling principles, similar to Blender or 3Ds Max. The exercises will add practice in mastering SubD techniques, and in the materials, you’ll find a file with SubD tools in a table format for exercises.

Try to perceive the finished 3D model as something dynamic and editable. NURBS surfaces are just that. As long as they are enclosed in a polysurface, they cannot be edited. Once we split the polysurface into separate segments, we gain the ability to change them. This module will teach you to edit surfaces using control points. Interaction with surface control points is an advanced editing method comparable to sculpting. Your most complex models will require this editing method in some way. By repeating the exercises in this module, you practice applying this method. Additionally, we will master visualization practice. You will also learn to analyze and filter surface sets using Grasshopper. The exercises in this topic include repetitions and solutions to problems related to surface editing, UV unfolding, and the parametric Grasshopper module.

At this stage, we will get acquainted with transformation tools. We arrange elements on a wheel to create a texture, using various methods of transferring from plane to surface and subtracting elements. In the next example, we arrange a matrix of elements along a curve and along a curve on a surface. During curve editing, elements also change, which is done by working with history. In the follow-up task to topic 5 – building a twisted object in a spiral. The twisted object (Twist) is used in blacksmithing to obtain intricate patterns. We will consider how to create a smooth twisted object and move it along a curved line using the Twist, FlowOnSurface, and FlowOnCurve tools. After that, we analyze the length of both curves. An additional task discusses the command for stretching an object on a surface with the possibility of repeating the object, illustrated with a Japanese ornament example.

Modeling a finished product from scratch awaits you in the last module. The final result – a pendant in the shape of a key with Roman numerals. The essence of this topic is a project with the instructor. From start to finish, we practice tools for creating curves, elongated objects, and various surface creation tools, combining surfaces into polysurfaces.
We control the quality of edges and their closure, paying attention to preparing the object for 3D printing. The object can be printed on a 3D printer, cast from various metals, or used to create a casting system considering shrinkage for mass production. This means the model is linked to production and has practical applications.
In the task, we design Roman columns. We refine skills in creating curves, surfaces, and placing small objects along curves. We model a sectional wall using skills in history, parent and child objects, and control points. We will create the wall using Grasshopper. In an additional task, we add textures to a bracelet model (physics-based material), using ready-made and custom materials for visualizing the object.