How to Design a Low Poly Umbrella Using 3D CAD Software

How to Design a Low Poly Umbrella Using 3D CAD Software
Low poly modeling is a popular technique in 3D design, known for its simplified geometry and efficiency in rendering. It is widely used in game design, animation, and digital art due to its balance between aesthetics and performance. One of the accessible tools for creating low poly models is SelfCAD, a user-friendly, browser-based 3D modeling software.

In this article, we will explore the process of designing a low poly umbrella using SelfCAD. This step-by-step guide will cover essential techniques such as using basic shapes, adjusting polygon count, and applying transformations to achieve the desired form. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced 3D artist, mastering low poly modeling in SelfCAD can help you create visually appealing models with minimal complexity
To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/e5l2b1i3e3x653nu572r3z1k3m84y3l4w6c4

Once you’ve launched the editor;
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose sphere; Set arc to 45, rotation y to -22.5

Click to finalize sphere
Click scale on the toolbar; Set y to 50

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
From the right panel choose cube selection; Set top to 25

Click to finalize cube selection
Click on highlighted region to select it

Click delete button to delete selected objects
From the deform category on the toolbar choose inflate; Set y to 4 using highlighted gizmo

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
Click move on the toolbar; Set origin position to right, x to 0.

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set operation to pivot, amount of copies to 7, Click copy button to create copies.

Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel
Click on mesh 4, 4(2,4,6) to deselect
Click color picker button to change color of object; Click white.

Click ok
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 1, Bottom radius to 1, height to 65, position y to 10.

Click to finalize cylinder
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose torus; Set ring radius to 4, tube radius to 1, arc to 180, position x to -4, position y to 5, rotation x to 90

Click to finalize torus
Click on mesh 8 to select
Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.

Click to finalize union
Click color picker button to change color of object; Click black.

Click ok
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set radius to 2, height to 10, position y to 76.

Click to finalize cube
Click color picker button to change color of object; Click black.

Click ok
From the edit menu on the top toolbar click select all; Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.

Click to finalize union
Click rotate on the toolbar; Set x to 318

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