How to Transform 2D Images into 3D Models Using Two Unique Approaches
SelfCAD makes it simple to turn 2D images into 3D models with its Image to 3D tool. You can easily upload flat images, like logos, sketches, or any 2D designs, and transform them into 3D models. If you're just starting out or already have experience in 3D modeling, this tool saves you time by removing the need to build models from scratch. It’s especially helpful if you want to bring your 2D artwork to life in 3D form. To convert 2D to 3D, you can check out the interactive tutorial. In summary, start by launching SelfCAD and open the workspace:
The first step is to import the 3D image. To do this, click Reference Image from the View menu on the top toolbar:
Click Add Image and set the Opacity to 50:
Click “X” to close the panel. Activate 3D Sketch from the Drawing category:
From the tools, select Arc 2:
Click on the highlighted points to make a sketch of the image. Then click “X” to close the sketch panel:
Choose Reference Image from the View menu on the top toolbar:
Click delete to remove the reference image:
You are now left with the sketch you have drawn:
Click “X” to close the reference image panel. Activate Rotate Tool on the toolbar, and set X to -90:
Click “X” to close the transformation panel. From the Tools category select Fill Polygons tool:
Tick the check mark to finalize Fill Polygon. Select Add Thickness from the Modify category and set the Thickness to 10 and set Mirrored Thickness to true:
Tick the check mark to finalize the thickness. Select the profile and the mesh and click Hide to hide them away. In this next step, we are looking at how you can use the Image to 3D tool to convert 2D to 3D.
On the toolbar, click Image to 3D tool and select the image again. Set the Resolution to 500 and the Tolerance to 0.9 and then tick the check mark to finalize the image to 3d:
Select the hidden mesh_1 and ImageGenerator_1 object just created and activate the Move tool. Use the Move tool to position the objects as shown:
You can then use the Polygon Selection tool to select the faces and give the mesh the colors from the Color Picker:
Those are two ways you can use to make to convert 2D to 3D.
Once you've converted the image, SelfCAD’s modeling tools help you improve the 3D model. You can smooth out any rough parts, add details, and make other changes to perfect the design. When you're happy with how it looks, you can use the built-in slicer to get the model ready for 3D printing, making it easy to turn your digital design into a real object. Learn how to slice STL files in SelfCAD in the video below.
Enjoy powerful modeling, rendering, and 3D printing tools without the steep learning curve.
Need to learn 3D modeling? Get started with interactive tutorials.