How to Design a Cupboard Using 3D CAD Software

How to Design a Cupboard Using 3D CAD Software
Designing a cupboard requires a combination of creativity, precision, and the right tools. Traditional methods of furniture design often involve manual drafting and complex calculations, which can be time-consuming and challenging. However, with the advancement of digital modeling software, designing has become more efficient and accessible. SelfCAD, a powerful yet user-friendly 3D modeling software, simplifies the process by providing intuitive tools for creating detailed and customizable cupboard designs.

This article explores the step-by-step process of designing a cupboard using SelfCAD. It will cover essential aspects such as creating the basic structure, adjusting dimensions, adding shelves and compartments, and refining the final look with textures and colors. By following these steps, both beginners and experienced designers can create functional and aesthetically pleasing cupboards with ease.
To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/1o24k6b372p4f724k644h6t52443d1x43723

Once you’ve launched the editor;
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; set height to 150

Tick the checkmark finalize cube
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 95, height to 25, depth to 95, position y to 2, position z to 5

Tick the checkmark finalize cube
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set y to 30, amount of copies to 4, click copy button to create copies.

Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel
Click on mesh 4 to select it
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, choose group 1 to subtract, and set keep subtracted object to true

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference
Click on mesh 8 to deselect, click delete button to delete selected objects
Click on difference 1 to select; click hide button to hide selected objects

Click on mesh 8 to select
Click copy button to copy selected objects
Click scale on the toolbar; set x to 90, y to 30, z to 90

Click move on the toolbar; set y to 5 using highlighted gizmo

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
Click on mesh 8 to select
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, choose mesh 8(5)

Tick the checkmark to finalize difference
Click show button to show difference 1
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 1, Bottom radius to 1, height to 25, horizontal segments to 128, vertical segments to 128, position y to 15, position z to 60, rotation z to 90.

Tick the checkmark to finalize cylinder
From the deform category on the toolbar choose bend; Set plane to left/right, z to -100

Click move on the toolbar; Set z to 54

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
From the right panel choose materials; Click color button to change material color; click grey

Tick the checkmark to finalize materials
Click on difference 2 to select it. Click on mesh 12 to deselect
From the right panel choose materials; Set settings to textures, texture category to wood, click wood 1 button to apply texture

Tick the checkmark to finalize materials
Click on difference 1 to select it. Click on difference 2 to deselect
From the right panel choose materials; Set texture category to others, set texture category to basic, click basic 1 button to apply texture

Tick the checkmark to finalize materials
Click on difference 2, mesh 12 to select it. Click on difference 1 to deselect
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.

Tick the checkmark to finalize union
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set y to 30, amount of copies to 4, click copy button to create copies.

Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets 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