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Think about how to break the model up into component parts to make it easier to build. Is it a small model, maybe a game playing piece? If so it will have to be simple and easy to construct.
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Is it a 1:1 scale model to be handled and played with or a large model that will take pride of place on your display shelf? If so it will have to be sturdy and you may need to design internal supports or double-layer parts for durability. Give some thought to the end purpose of the model. Use pen and paper to maybe sketch the object so that you're familiar with it. If it's a reproduction of something that exists (movie prop etc) then find as many reference pictures as you can and research the object to make sure you have the shape right from all angles. Before you even fire up Wings, give your model some thought. Teaching is a learning experience, after all, and that includes the teacher. That said, if you see something I've done that's wrong or there's an easier way to do it then please chip in with comments. For what I do, though (mainly single-page or "simple" model kits) it's ideal and gives me the best productivity rate as I'm familiar with its interface and way of working.
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It's primarily a 3D design and texturing app, after all. I'm aware that Wings probably isn't the best product out there for making a model kit with. I've spent the last couple of days making screenshots of the build process in Wings and have a few more steps to go there before I start writing up.įirst, though, an introduction and some (probably obvious) hints and tips aimed more at beginners. Just to let you know, I haven't stopped working on / thinking about this tutorial.
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