How to Design a 3D Printed Coaster Set Using 3D CAD Software
3D printing has transformed the way individuals design and create everyday objects, making custom manufacturing more accessible than ever before. From decorative home items to practical tools, the ability to design and produce personalized products has empowered creators of all skill levels. One simple yet functional project that showcases the power of 3D modeling is a custom coaster set. Using SelfCAD, an intuitive browser-based 3D design and printing software, anyone can turn a basic idea into a fully printable and customized coaster set.
Through sketching, shaping, adding decorative elements, and preparing files for printing, users gain hands-on experience with essential design tools while producing a useful household item. This article will explore the step-by-step process of designing a functional and aesthetically appealing 3D printed coaster set using SelfCAD, from initial concept to final print preparation.
To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/4g731w6ot1n6qs4k70721653ne123lh6d1oe
Once you’ve launched the editor;
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 100, bottom radius to 100, height to 5, vertical segments to 30
Click to finalize cylinder
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose torus; Set ring radius to 49, tube radius to 2, position x to 46, position y to 2
Click to finalize torus
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set operation to pivot, amount of copies to 15, Click copy button to create copies
Click on mesh 4 to select it
Click Boolean on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union
Click to finalize union
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose torus; Set ring radius to 99, tube radius to 4, radial segments to 30
Click to finalize torus
Click color picker button to change color of selected object; Click white
Click OK
From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set y to 8, Set amount of copies to 5, Click copy button to create copies
Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 108, bottom radius to 108, height to 45, vertical segments to 30
Click to finalize cylinder
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 106, bottom radius to 106, vertical segments to 30, position y to 2
Click on mesh 16 to select it
Click Boolean on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose difference, Click on mesh 20 to subtract
Click to finalize difference
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 100, bottom radius to 100, height to 300, position y to 3, rotation x to 90
Click on difference 1 to select it
Click Boolean on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 24 to subtract
Click to finalize difference
Click color picker button to change color of selected object; Click silver
Click OK
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.
Top comments (0)