How to Design Rocks (Low Poly) Using 3D CAD Software

Learn How to Design Rocks (Low Poly) Using 3D CAD Software with the help of this article

How to Design Rocks (Low Poly) Using 3D CAD Software

Designing low-poly rocks in SelfCAD is a straightforward yet creative process that focuses on using basic shapes and polygon reduction techniques to achieve a stylized, efficient 3D model. Low-poly 3D modeling is essential for game design, animation, and real-time rendering, where simplicity and performance optimization are key. By utilizing SelfCAD’s versatile tools, such as shape extrusion, subdivision, and edge manipulation, designers can create unique rock formations with minimal geometry while maintaining a natural, rugged appearance. This article explores the step-by-step process of crafting low-poly rocks in SelfCAD, from shape creation to final refinements

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out; https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/5x6i6k4k1h643i1t5i15p6b5d3pi736641i2

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose icosahedron; Set segment to 1.

Tick the checkmark to finalize icosahedron

From the modify category on the toolbar choose simplify object

Click to finalize simplify object

Click to activate face selection; Click on highlighted region to select it

From the deform category on the toolbar choose flatten; Set x to 0 using highlighted gizmo

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click scale on the toolbar; Set y to 60, z to 70

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click rotate on the toolbar; Click on highlighted region to deselect it, Set z to 90.

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click to activate vertex selection;Click color picker button to change color of object; Click brown

Click ok

Click highlighted part on selection cube to turn off region selection

Click copy button to copy selected objects; Click move on the toolbar; Set x to 50

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click scale on the toolbar; Set y to 50, x to 90

Click to activate face selection;

Click on highlighted region to select it; Set keep proportion to true, y to 12

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click move on the toolbar; Click on highlighted region to deselect it, Set y to 0.

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose sphere; Set radius to 20, horizontal segments to 10, vertical segments to 5, position x to -40, position z to 40.

Tick the checkmark to finalize sphere

From the modify category on the toolbar choose simplify object; Set intensity to 4, normal check to false

Click to finalize simplify object

Click on highlighted region to select it

From the deform category on the toolbar choose flatten; Set y to 0 using highlighted gizmo

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on highlighted region to select it; Click scale on the toolbar; Set x to 20, z to 14

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on highlighted region to deselect it

Click color picker button to change color of object; Click brown

Click ok

Click highlighted part on selection cube to turn off region selection

Click move on the toolbar; Click on mesh 4 to select it. Click on mesh 8 to deselect it, Set y to 0

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

As you continue honing your design skills, remember that SelfCAD offers a wealth of resources to support your learning journey. To deepen your understanding and explore more advanced features, consider checking out the interactive tutorials (https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials) available on the SelfCAD website. The tutorials page provides a treasure trove of guides, tips, and tricks that cater to designers of all levels.

More structured learning experience can also be accessed at the SelfCAD Academy (https://www.selfcad.com/academy/curriculum/), https://www.youtube.com/@3dmodeling101, and 3D Modeling 101 series (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL74nFNT8yS9DcE1UlUUdiR1wFGv9DDfTB). This comprehensive resource offers in-depth courses taught by industry experts, allowing you to master the intricacies of SelfCAD at your own pace