Bobcats learned the basics of 3D modeling this week during Alkek Library’s virtual Introduction to 3D Design workshop led by MakerSpace Coordinator Noah Brock. This workshop was part of the library’s new Alkek One series of workshops that allow Texas State students, faculty, and staff to pick up some new digital skills. Check out some workshop highlights.
Designing in TinkerCAD
During the workshop, participants learned how to use TinkerCAD, a free online 3D modeling software. It’s a great software for beginners that gives them a chance to learn how to manipulate something that is three-dimensional using a two-dimensional computer screen, keyboard and mouse. Brock recommended using a mouse as opposed to a track pad for modeling as it is easier to work with.
After touring the features and layout of TinkerCAD, workshop participants had the chance to get hands-on with shapes. Modifying a variety of values such as radius, length, width, height, or steps changes the shape and size of an object. Different solid objects can also be fused together to create a larger singular object.
Pretty cool! See how to turn a 3D rectangle to a rounded shape. Noah Brock, University Libraries MakerSpace Coordinator, shows Bobcats how to customize shapes in TinkerCAD at @alkeklibrary's 3D Design workshop. #txst pic.twitter.com/2rLERckHfu
— DOIT (@TXST_DoIT) July 20, 2020
Creating digital models
Alkek One — the new innovative technology space on the first floor of Alkek Library, features a MakerSpace and many 3D printers. During the workshop, Brock showed how to manipulate an advanced design, such as a coffee mug and doughnut. Once a design is ready, it can be sent to one of Alkek’s 3D printers to become a real physical object.
https://twitter.com/TXST_DoIT/status/1285234584125407238
We hope Bobcats had fun and learned some new skills with 3D modeling. If you missed this workshop, the library is offering more sessions this summer, so be sure to sign-up! They’re also offering a variety of other interesting workshops such as video editing, story mapping, and more.
https://twitter.com/TXST_DoIT/status/1285242876822204419
Steffanie Agnew is the digital marketing strategist in the IT Marketing and Communications office.
