Overview

Blender is a FOSS 3D Modeling, Computer Graphics, Animation, & Rendering program used heavily by motion graphics artists, video game creators, and 3D artists of all sorts.

This class is an introduction to the basics of Blender for both absolute beginners and those who may have experience in another 3D modeling platform but want an overview.

While there will be a focus on designing models to be 3D printed or CNC machined, the fundamentals covered can be useful for animation & more generic modeling applications as well.

We'll cover:

• Blender interface things: origin points, 3D Cursor, viewports, vertex vs edge vs face, importing/exporting
• Blender modeling: adding objects, steps to go from svg/dxf to basic 3d model, sculpting, displacement/normal maps, procedural textures, adding engravings, modifiers
• Fixing models: filling in holes in meshes, re-mesh modifier, having normals facing correctly, avoiding undercuts, measurement tools
• Lighting types, camera motion, basic animation

Important Information

• This class will be held online via Zoom. After signing up, you will receive a personalized Zoom invite via email.
• To save time during the session, please make sure you have downloaded and installed Blender prior to the session. The software is totally free:Windows, macOS, Linux
• While not required, it is ver helpful to have a keyboard with a numpad, and a mouse with a scrollwheel.
• If at all possible, please attend the Zoom session with both a camera and microphone. While we request that you keep yourself muted when not speaking, we believe that the ability to see and interact with participants is crucial to an effective learning session. No one likes talking to a blank screen.