Sweep It Under The Rocket...

The rocket for my trailer is part of a learning project for me.  Instead of modeling the rocket as
a 3D piece in a 3D application, I'm building the file based on an existing sculpted piece I created.  Thr original was a simple 3D model that I used as a foundation for more detailed sculpted pieces out of Magic Sculpt epoxy.  I'm trying to turn that into a reproduction piece for the trailer that I can mostly carve in HDU.

This next step involves creating some rocket engine/legs. Why?  The import of the 3D model has left the legs far too flat.  I could do things like pull the legs off of the 3D model and import them seperately, but I think all of this can be built in Vectric Aspire 4.0 and that's the goal....

So, I've created 2 vectored lines to represent the shape of the leg. 

Numbers 1 and 2 represent the first two vector lines.  The vector labled number 3 represents a cross section shape. Imagine the shape being pulled along the two vector rails to create a shape.  In this case, as vectors 1 and 2 arc toward each other, the half round shape will begin to taper.  I could set it not to do that, but it's exactly what I want.  Here is the result applied to the left leg.

 
Here it is duplicated and placed on the right leg as well.

As I build each shape and add it to the piece, the rocket will become more and more like the sculpted piece I'm copying.  I'll add some of the texture through paint, once it's carved.  Next, I'll build up the body and then begin to add wood "planking".

Before You Can Run...

Part of working on the 3D version of Stella is doing some modeling to get some of the shapes I'd like.  I'm very fortunate to be in the mood for some learning!  I have been doing some self training with the new version of Vectric Aspire (version 4.0).  One of the great things about the software is that they provide over 30 hours of video tutorials and many support files to help.  It's not a small undertaking, but by viewing a little each day between other work, I've built up some understanding of how to proceed.

I learn best by applying new techniques to real projects, so I'm setting up files for Stella as well as putting some of these techniques into practice.  I have a 5' x 10' trailer that has needed some attention for a year.  Dan dared me to put some dimension on it, which is exactly what I intend to do.  I'll be building a 2 1/2 D version of my rocket ship...

Beginnings:

The rocket will be mounted on this design.  The brown on the background will be an actual "rust" finish.

Stay tuned to see how I add the details!

STELLA!!!

I had the opportunity to visit with a group of friends both old and new this weekend.  It's always inspirational to see what others are doing.  One person, in particular, has been knocking it out of the park with his design work.  His name is Joe Diaz. He's part of  Diaz Sign Art 

He recently won the CorelDRAW International Design Contest with this:

I mentioned that I thought it would be a wonderful 3D piece, and he said he'd been thinking that as well.  Before I left for home, we discussed the idea of doing it as a joint piece.  We've been discussing how to generate files, and how to  divide the pieces into layers.

We're going for a combination of  2 1/2 and 3D.  Joe has already turned Stella herself into a 3D file, and I'll be assisting in converting the vectored portions.  It should be a fun project and I hope you'll follow along as this new version of Stella comes to life.