Ask a Carpenter, Ask a 3D Modeller
Ask a carpenter about a lathe and you may well be there for a while discussing different headstocks, faceplate or even swarf. And I thought 3D modelling had a lot of jargon! If you ask a 3D modeller the same question, you’ll get a whole different answer.
Lathing in the real world is taking raw material, usually wood or metal, and spinning it while you use tools to carve the surface. It’s used for creating engine parts, furniture, and a whole raft of other things. The 3D equivalent is based on that and it’s used in a similar way. Most 3D software has the tool and a good one for the iPad is Nomad Sculpt.
Getting Started
With the Lathe tool activated, you can lay down a curve or path using splines and points. The points are editable so you can move them to create a profile that will spin around a central point and effectively give you a lathed shape. It’s similar to a pottery wheel. A potter spins clay that’s moulded into a shape with their hands. The same theory is happening with the spline and points, it’s just quicker and less dirty.
Expert Tip: Take a Chip off the Old Block
Creating something symmetrical can look a little too perfect. The trick is to break it up, so maybe take some chips out using Trim or Split. Either will remove a chunk from the model, but Split is best as you can use the pieces elsewhere.
01. Get Set Up
Pick the Lathe tool from the sidebar menu. You can choose between either Path or Curve type – I used Path. Turn the Perspective option off and snap the camera to the front view. Now start laying down points to create a profile that will be the shape of one side of your vase. Tap on the points that you want to become an angle.
02. Refine the Shape
Continue adding more points along the spline and work all the way up to the top, then create more going back down into what will be the inside of the vase we’re designing. If you need to remove a point, simply drag it over to another point and it will disappear. You’ll be able to make amendments to this shape once the model has created, right up until you use the Validate button.
03. Make the Geometry
Once you have a profile you think will work, hit the dot at the end of the spline. This will create the shape based on your spline. There are settings at the top-right that allow you to change the density or number of polygons. Keep it as low as you can but retain the shape you’re looking to create. At this stage it’s still editable and you can tweak the entire model by moving a single point.
04. Finish the Mesh
Once the geometry is to your liking you can click Validate, which will lock the model in its final state with the points no longer editable. Now go to the top Geometry menu and look for Miscellaneous. From the options, choose UV Unwrap to give the model some mapping coordinates. From this point on, you only need to texture your model.
Conclusion
The Lathe tool in Nomad Sculpt is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of shapes and models. By following these steps, you can create a symmetrical and organic shape that can be used in a variety of applications. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced 3D modeller, the Lathe tool is definitely worth exploring.
FAQs
Q: What is the Lathe tool used for?
A: The Lathe tool is used to create symmetrical and organic shapes by spinning a curve or path using splines and points.
Q: How do I get started with the Lathe tool?
A: To get started with the Lathe tool, pick it from the sidebar menu and choose between Path or Curve type. Turn the Perspective option off and snap the camera to the front view.
Q: Can I edit the shape after it’s been created?
A: Yes, you can edit the shape after it’s been created by moving a single point. However, once you use the Validate button, the model will be locked in its final state.
Q: What is the difference between Trim and Split?
A: Trim will remove a chunk from the model, while Split will remove a chunk and allow you to use the pieces elsewhere.
Q: Can I use the Lathe tool to create complex engine parts?
A: Yes, the Lathe tool can be used to create complex engine parts, such as those found in jets or turbines.
