first true 2.5 d model using the 3d tools... I still need lots of practice

[lawrence]

Well, I decided to try my hand at a 3d model. It obviously is a rough model and needs some work, but here's what I came up with and how.

1. Find a picture.... this one works for me
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/ldr_klr/tigerpic1024x768.jpg

2. use a paint type program (I used the free paint.net) to get rid of everything you don't want to carve... you don't have to do this, but I found it easier to work with this way
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/ldr_klr/tigerheadmain2bmp1024x768.jpg

3. Import a "tracing image" and bring the photo into designer. With the drawing tools, draw around the individual areas that make up the model. You keep toggling back and forth between the picture view and the model view and add puffing with the puffing tools (3d model kit) to get the general effect that you want
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/ldr_klr/tigeroutlines.jpg

4. When you are done, you'll have something like this
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/ldr_klr/perspective.jpg

[lawrence]

5. Then save the "model" as a pattern and take it into the pattern editor, where you can smooth, blur, carve, etc to make the model more lifelike then save it as a pattern again. I obviously need to work on the mouth area on this pattern some more, but I just wanted to give y'all the idea.
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/ldr_klr/tigerpuffed2.jpg

6. Bring the pattern (puffed and touched up on designer) into the designer software, then add the image onto the pattern and use "merge additive" to put the details from the picture onto the actual shape that you made with the 3d tools and puffing.
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/ldr_klr/combined.jpg

7. Use as you will as a pattern...
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u313/ldr_klr/signtigerspaw1024x768.jpg

I know it isn't much.... mostly because I'm really just learning this myself... but if we all pitch in and share our knowledge, we'll have a great new batch of patterns to work with.

I can't believe how powerful these tools are and am excited at what the future will hold for us all.

Lawrence

[ladjr]

All I can say is WOW that is great

[easybuilt]

Nice job Lawrence and I love all the details. Thank you!!

[badbert]

That is awesome! I am going to have to sell some blood or something so I can get the new software!

[Ton80]

Very interesting. I can see how combining the original image and the pattern you made with the 3D tools start to show the power that is here. Still gonna have to wait for it go on sale but I'm getting more of an idea of the power here.

[ibewiggin]

That looks really cool, I wish they would offer a trial so I can see which 3d program I want to buy, theirs or third party.