How to Use SelfCAD to Design Paperweight
With 3D modeling software, you can design a paperweight that matches your personal style or brand. You can add an engraving, a company logo, or any unique shape you like. 3D modeling gives you complete control over the design.
Unlike making a paperweight by hand, digital modeling is more accurate. It ensures that all measurements and shapes are correct. You can adjust every detail to make sure the size and weight are perfect for daily use.
With SelfCAD’s easy-to-use tools, you don’t need special skills to create something great. Whether you want a simple and elegant design or a more detailed and artistic one, this article will help you turn your idea into reality. Check out the interactive tutorial of SelfCAD to learn how to 3D model. In summary, start by launching SelfCAD and open the workspace:
Start by creating the basic shape by selecting the Sphere from the 3D Shapes:
Set the parameters of the Sphere as follows and tick the check mark to finalize the sphere:
The next step is creating the top part of the paperweight. Select the Capsule from the 3D Shapes and set the parameters as shown:
Tick the check mark to finalize it. Activate the Face Selection from the right side panel and select the bottom face. Select the Taper tool from the Flatten category:
Use the gizmos to set Y to 1.09 to flatten it. Click “X” to close the transformation panel:
Use the Move tool and set Y to 0:
Use the Scale Tool to set the X, Y and Z as follows using gizmos:
Choose the 3D Sketch from the Drawing category. Select the Ellipse from the tools panel and select the Back/Front. Click on the highlighted points to draw, and then click “X” to close the 3D sketch panel:
Select the Fill Polygon from the Modify category and tick the check mark to finalize it:
Select Add Thickness tool from the Modify category and set the Vertex Normals to true. Tick the check mark to finalize the thickness:
Use the Move tool to to set Z to -54.25 and click “X” to close the panel:
Select all the objects and click the Stitch and Scoop tool. Choose Union and tick the check mark to finalize:
The paperweight is finally ready. Once your design is complete, SelfCAD allows you to export the model in STL format, which is the standard file type for 3D printing. It also features a built-in Slicer Tool, enabling you to slice the files and generate the G-code to send to your 3D printer. Learn how to slice files in the video below.
For students and educators, designing a paperweight using SelfCAD can be a fun and educational project. It teaches the basics of 3D modeling, creativity, and problem-solving skills while producing a functional end product.
Enjoy powerful modeling, rendering, and 3D printing tools without the steep learning curve.
Need to learn 3D modeling? Get started with interactive tutorials.