Hey everyone!! I have never used a 3d modelling software before and I plan to start learning 3d modelling. I would like to be able to draw detailed 3d conceptual vehicles like the Batmobile from the batman that I would later be able to print out… What software do you recommend to start with?
Hi Shaharyar, I’ve asked a similar question about the decision between 3DS Max and Blender and the advice here came down fairly firmly on Blender, so in the long term Blender is probably a good option:
However, if you’ve never used 3D modelling software before, a package like Blender may be a steep learning curve, so I’d probably recommend you start by playing with something like Autodesk 123D Design:
http://www.123dapp.com/design
This is a much simpler program (both these are free, by the way) and would be a good way to get to grips with the basic concepts of 3D modelling.
Jon
GIFT3D
3
As Jon’s said if your new you should probably stay away from blender until you know the basics. Autodesk 123D and Google Sketchup are good to begin with.
I wouldn’t recommend diving straight into complex designs like the Batmobile to begin with, but as you get your bearing and start to feel more comfort with 3D modelling then you can begin to advance with models. Just start small basic models until you get the basics and progress at a rate you feel comfortable with. It may be wise to ‘upgrade’ you software to something like blender for the more complex models. All these applications are free.
Hope this helps and good look with the models.
Hi Shaharyar!
So when it comes to 3D modeling, there are two very different styles of modeling, each with it’s own benefits and disadvantages. One type is called parametric/solid modeling (CAD) and the other is mesh modeling. CAD is more useful for any type of functional object or for anything you need precise sizes for (jewelry and dental implants for example), whereas mesh modeling is more useful for making sculptures and objects that are more organic. An engineer will use parametric software like SolidWorks or Pro/E to make his/her models, whereas a video game designer or animator will use mesh modeling software like Blender and Z-Brush.
Which one you choose to learn really depends upon what your end goals for your models are. If you want a model you can build and assemble of a vehicle (like a Batmobile) where the wheels actually spin and doors can open, a parametric modeling software is a better choice. I also think the parametric modeling software is a bit easier to learn than mesh modeling, so starting with 123D or OnShape (a really good cloud based modeling platform) might be the way to go. However, if you have no interest in making things move or fit tightly together, and only plan on making a model that will print in one piece, you can start learning with a mesh modeling software. Just be aware that Blender and other mesh modeling packages have a lot of commands and controls that take awhile to learn to use effectively. I myself am in the process of learning Blender after some time of using strictly CAD packages, and it is not an easy transition.
Regardless of what software you choose, don’t get disappointed if it takes you awhile to get a hang of it. Learning 3D modeling is a time consuming process and has a steep learning curve, especially if you’ve never modeled before. It will take awhile to be able to model a Batmobile and complex vehicles
