How to Create a Kids Bean Bag in SelfCAD

In schools today, using 3D modeling in lessons is a great way to help students learn through hands-on activities. It makes learning fun and creative. This article will show how to design a kids bean bag using a program called SelfCAD. SelfCAD is an easy-to-use 3D design tool that students and teachers can use for classroom projects. By creating something real, like a bean bag, students can learn about design, shapes, measurements, and more.

This activity is not just about learning how to use software. It helps students develop important skills like problem-solving, creativity, and spatial understanding. These are useful in many subjects such as art, design, math, and technology.

In this article, we’ll go step-by-step to show how to make a kids bean bag using SelfCAD. You don’t need to be an expert. Even beginners can follow along and learn. You can also check out the interactive tutorial to learn the entire process.

Why SelfCAD is Perfect for Classrooms

SelfCAD is a great choice for schools and classrooms. Here’s why:

1. Easy to Learn: SelfCAD is simple and user-friendly. It was made for beginners, including students who have never used 3D software before. The buttons are easy to understand, and everything is clearly labeled.
2. Helpful Videos and Tutorials: There are many video lessons and step-by-step tutorials on SelfCAD’s website and YouTube. Students can watch these videos to learn at their own speed. Teachers can also use the videos to guide students in class.
3. Online and downloadable versions are available: SelfCAD works in your internet browser. This means you don’t need to install any software. Just go to the SelfCAD website, log in, and start designing. This is very helpful for schools with many students and shared computers. If you need a downloadable version, SelfCAD comes with version for Windows and Mac that you can download.
4. Fun and Interactive: SelfCAD allows students to play with shapes, colors, and designs. They can create their own ideas or follow a teacher’s project. This makes learning more exciting and hands-on.
5. Supports Different Subjects: You can use SelfCAD for art and design, math, science, and even geography. It helps bring lessons to life.
6. Good for Group Work: Students can work together on design projects. They learn to cooperate, share ideas, and help each other.

For all these reasons, SelfCAD is a smart tool for students and teachers who want to bring 3D design into the classroom.

Steps of Modeling the Bean Bag in SelfCAD

Start by launching SelfCAD and open the workspace:

Select a cylinder from the 3D Shapes category:

Set the parameters of the cylinder as follows:

Activate Polygon Selection and use it to select the top polygon. Activate Inset tool from the Modify category:

Set the Inset Amount to 30 and click the + icon to add an operation. Set the operation as Extrusion and the Amount to 5. Then tick the check mark to finalize the inset:

Activate Vertex Selection and use it to select the two vertices as follows. Then seelct the Move tool on the toolbar and set Y to 300:

Click “X” to close the transformation panel. Select the Round Object tool on the Modify category. Set the Amount to 3 and tick the check mark to finalize the operation:

On the right side panel, click on the Color icon and select the Magenta color and click ok to confirm the color:

Select to activate Cube Selection on the right side panel. Set the Bottom to 93 and tick the check mark to finalize the selection:

Select the Yellow color from the Color Picker and click ok to apply the color to the selected part:

There you go, the kids bean bag is now ready:

Classroom Activities and Discussions

In this section, teachers and educators will find helpful ideas for using the Kids Bean Bag 3D modeling project as a learning activity in the classroom. These activities not only make learning fun but also connect 3D modeling with real-life skills and subjects such as math, science, art, and design.

1. Group Design Challenge: Divide students into small groups and ask them to create their own version of a bean bag in SelfCAD. Each group can design a different shape, color, or size. At the end, let them present their designs to the class and explain why they chose their particular design features.

2. Math Integration: Use the bean bag project to teach measurements and geometry. Ask students to calculate the surface area and volume of their bean bag designs. This helps them apply mathematical concepts in a practical way.

3. Art and Creativity: Encourage students to customize their bean bag with colors, patterns, and even 3D logos or images. This activity fosters creativity and allows students to express their artistic ideas while learning 3D modeling.

4. Science Connection: Discuss the materials used in real-life bean bags, like fabric types and filling (e.g., polystyrene beads). Students can research and present which materials are best and why, then reflect this in their 3D model choices.

5. Writing Assignment: Ask students to write a short story or explanation of how they would use their bean bag at home or in school. This helps them connect design thinking to real-life use and practice language skills.

6. Peer Feedback and Improvement: After completing the designs, let students give each other feedback. What works well? What could be improved? This encourages collaboration and critical thinking.

7. Display and Reflection: Create a digital exhibition or print posters of their bean bag models. Let students reflect on what they learned, what they enjoyed, and what was challenging.