Jewelry Designer

In this block you will master the use of tools – NURBS curves.
Curves are the basis of surface modeling. We will build 2 logos, learn the tools for creating closed curves. Next, we use the curves to build a three-dimensional part by extruding closed areas.
At the end of the topic you will find interesting tasks that will complement your knowledge of curves as the basis for surfaces.

In this block, we will review with you the basic tools for creating surfaces.
Let’s divide this material into 2 groups: NURBS surfaces and SubDivide – a new set of tools for creating organic, amorphous 3D objects.
Surface creation tools – 5 commands that will give you the freedom of modeling. After creating surfaces, they need to be connected to each other using the interface and analysis tools – Zebra. After studying the video from this block, you will move to a new level of knowledge of the program. We will continue our acquaintance with SubDivide tools in the next topic.
The task will delight you with examples using Grasshopper parametric algorithms and teach you how to use UV to transfer texture from a plane to a curved surface.

In this block, you will get acquainted with the new construction logic – SubDiv surfaces.
It differs from NURBS and is closer to polygonal modeling.
You will see and try how SubDivs work. The choice of parts of the model is carried out through filters: points, edges, surfaces.
By editing a primitive, you will create a finished shape in several stages, you can modify it at each of them, applying selection filters and hovering points or edges.
Separately, I note that these tools will teach you how to use the manipulator and help develop spatial volumetric perception of objects. After going through all the videos of this block, you become a 3d modeler who owns two different construction technologies – classic surface modeling and SubDiv with polygonal modeling logic that can be found in Blender or 3Ds max.
Tasks will add practice in mastering SubDiv techniques, in the materials you will find a file for SubDiv instruments in the form of a block table.

Try to perceive the finished 3D model as something dynamic and editable. This is actually the NURBS surface. As long as they are locked into the polysurface, we cannot edit them. As soon as we divide the polysurface into separate pieces, we have the opportunity to change them.
This block will teach you how to edit surfaces using the Control points tools.
Interacting with surface control points is an advanced editing method and is comparable to sculpting.
Your most complex models will need this editing method anyway. By repeating the exercises in this block, you are practicing this method.
We will also master the practice of visualization. You will also learn how to use Grasshopper to analyze sets of surfaces and filter them.
The tasks in this topic contain repetitions and solutions to problems related to surface editing, flat patterns, and the Grasshopper parametric module.

At this stage, we will study the transformation tools.
We place elements on the wheel to create a texture, and use different methods of transferring elements for subtraction from a plane to a rolled surface. In another example, we arrange an array of elements along the curve and along the curve on the surface, when editing the curve, the elements also change, work with history is performed.
In the task, the continuation of topic 5 is the construction of an object twisted in a spiral. A twist, a twisted object, is used in forged products to obtain filigree braids. We are considering a method of obtaining a twisted object from a flat one and moving it along a folded curve, using the Twist, FlowOnSurface, FlowOnCurve tools. After that, it is necessary to analyze the length of both curves.
The additional task considers the command of stretching an object over a surface with the possibility of repeating the object using the example of a Japanese ornament.

Modeling the finished product from scratch awaits you in the final block.
The final object is a pendant in the form of a key with Roman numerals. The essence of this topic is a project with a teacher. From beginning to end, we practice the tools for creating curves, extruded objects, we use different tools for creating a surface, we combine surfaces into polysurfaces. We control the closure of the edges, We pay attention to preparing the object for 3D printing. An object can be grown on a 3D printer, cast from different metals, and a glacial system can be made taking into account shrinkage for mass production. That is, the model is related to production and has practical application.
In the task, we design Roman columns. We are pumping the skills of creating curves, surfaces, arranging small objects along curves. We model a sectional wall using the skills of working with history, parent and child objects, and control points. Let’s work on the wall with Grasshopper.
In an additional task, we add textures to the bracelet model (physical based material), using ready-made and custom materials to render the object.

This module covers several key aspects:

1. Creating a Pendant Base:
Learn how to easily and efficiently create a pendant base designed for engraving or adding a logo. The instructor demonstrates the most effective technique—curve extrusion—which makes the process of building a 3D form accessible even for beginners.

2. Placing Text Along a Curve:
Special attention is given to the skill of positioning text along a custom curve. This tool allows you to evenly distribute letters along the arc of the pendant, giving it a personalized and professional look.

By the end of this lesson, you’ll not only be able to create unique 3D pendant models but also gain valuable skills in working with engraving and text—an essential asset for jewelry designers and enthusiasts alike.

This module explores the potential of Subdivide (SubD) tools in jewelry modeling.

You’ll learn how to create a base model of a cross pendant with smooth, flowing contours—an ideal example to showcase the power of SubD tools in shaping organic and fluid forms.

The lesson offers insights into techniques that help you achieve a more natural and refined look when working with SubD modeling, making it especially valuable for those aiming to design elegant and contemporary jewelry.

This module focuses on the process of modeling a signet ring using surface modeling tools.

The instructor emphasizes that much of the work begins with creating curve-based templates. You’ll learn how to build from these curves and perform cutouts to achieve the desired wall thickness for the ring.

This lesson provides hands-on experience with surface modeling techniques and offers practical skills for creating complex forms. It’s especially useful for anyone interested in 3D design and the creation of detailed, custom jewelry pieces.

This module covers common techniques for placing gemstones along a ring surface.

Throughout the lesson, you’ll model three different types of ring bases: one with raised edges, a square-profile base without edges, and a base designed for U-pave settings.

The class provides hands-on experience in creating various elements and encourages experimentation with different styles and forms, making it a valuable resource for designers looking to expand their creative and technical skills in jewelry modeling.