I have a few years experience (over 5) with my CW. I have used free patterns, loaded PNGs (I am better than the average with Photoshop) and watched/implemented processes to transform silhouettes to 3D. I am just a part-time hobbyist.

My results have been satisfactory for my needs.

I am an expert at technology (Masters degrees in Comp Sci, Physics, Electrical Eng, because this is my real career).

Knowing too much detail, to advance, I would like recommendations about which add-ons to do more detailed 3D modeling.

I see, especially on the forum, very detailed patterns I know I am incapable of creating and have no idea about the tools and tech they use to create them.

Sure I can imagine some just getting the STL or DXF tool and stealing designs from what is available on the web.

But the question is how do the really great designers do it and with which tools?

This will be helpful so I do not waste time chasing rabbits down useless holes.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

Jim