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Nicolas Forgue

SelfCAD software

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SelfCAD software

Selfcad is a powerful 3D modeling tool. Less known than other softwares like Blender or Sketchup, Selfcad has an ergonomic interface with powerful 3D modeling features. The tool offers a completely free version with the main features to make simple models. It is thus possible to work on objects, to assemble them, to add materials and to launch a rendering. The Premium version allows you to use more advanced features and thus offers an extremely powerful software to do everything in 3D modeling. Working on vertices, segments and faces, sculpting tools, creating animation, using sketches to create an object. This software can therefore be used as a simple 3D modeling tool, or as a very advanced modeling tool, depending on the projects to be carried out.

Why to use this software

- Very ergonomic interface

- Well arranged tools to optimize the use of the software

- Creation of basic shapes with many options

- Using a construction tree for object layout

- Ability to create sketches to create objects

- Work on faces, segments and vertices

- Sculpt functionality

- Ability to create an animation

- Addition of materials

- Environment setting

Training course

In this training you will learn Selfcad to fully master all the features. At the end of the training, you will be able to make the most of the features, and you will be able to make your 3D models. This course is aimed both at people who have never used modeling software, and at those who have used it before, but want to work with Selfcad. In a structured course, you will learn the management of the dashboard, the creation of objects, the use of transformation tools, alignments, the different operations on objects. You will also learn how to create sketches, get started with sculpting, or create an animation. You will see how to add materials and set the environment to create renderings. At the end of the training, different modeling examples will allow you to train on all the features seen in the training.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Start with selfcad
  • Master dashboard
  • Navigate on 3d space
  • Create document
  • Save and export
  • Create shapes
  • Use shape generator
  • Transform objects
  • Edit objects
  • Create repetitions
  • Master alignments
  • Associate objects
  • Place objects
  • Use construction tree
  • Add materials
  • Add textures
  • Create renders
  • Create basic objects
  • Create advanced objects
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

Introduction

Introduction

Start with Selfcad

Start with Selfcad

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Manage dashboard

Edit workspace

Master navigation

Create document

Basic shapes

Advance shapes

Shape generator

Create screws

Add spirals

Create gears

Add text

Move objects

Rotate objects

Scale objects

Deform objects

Extrude faces

Create offset

Add thickness

Add fillet

Create chanfer

Round objects

Simplify objects

Subdivide objects

Add details

Split faces

Cut with plane

Repeat objects

Fill polygons

Create revolutions

Create loft

Follow path

Create symmetries

Boolean operations

Combine objects

Place objects

Align objects

Add guides

Basic selections

Advanced selections

Sketches part 1

Sketches part 2

Scene tree

Image reference

Image to 3D

Sculpting part 1

Sculpting part 2

Create animation part 1

Create animation part 2

Add materials

Add texture

Edit texture

Apply materials on faces

Renders part 1

Renders part 2

Create wrench

Create vase

Create glass

Table with chairs part 1

Table with chairs part 2

Sofa part 1

Sofa part 2

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Career center

Learners who complete SelfCAD 3D the complete course 3D modeling will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Three Dimensional Modeler
A Three Dimensional Modeler is an artist who transforms concepts into digital 3D forms, creating objects, characters, or environments for various industries like film, games, or product design. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course provides a comprehensive foundation for this role, teaching you to master dashboard management, navigate 3D space, and create both basic and advanced objects. You will learn to work meticulously with vertices, segments, and faces, apply sculpting tools, and refine models using transformations and editing functions. The course's focus on adding materials, textures, and creating renders is essential for presenting high-quality, professional 3D models. Taking this course helps you build the core technical skills and artistic sensibility required to excel as a Three Dimensional Modeler, enabling you to bring complex ideas to life digitally.
Furniture Designer
A Furniture Designer creates functional and aesthetic pieces of furniture, often blending artistry with practicality and material knowledge. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course directly addresses the core skills needed for a Furniture Designer. The training includes specific examples such as creating a table with chairs, a sofa, and a bed, providing hands-on experience in modeling common furniture items. You will learn object creation, advanced shaping techniques, the application of various materials and textures, and the ability to generate realistic renders. This comprehensive approach to digital modeling helps you translate design concepts into detailed, presentable 3D models, essential for prototyping, client presentations, and manufacturing specifications.
Prop Artist
A Prop Artist specializes in creating detailed 3D models of inanimate objects, or 'props,' for use in films, video games, animations, or virtual reality experiences. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course directly equips you with the comprehensive skills needed to excel as a Prop Artist. You will learn to create a vast array of objects, from everyday items like wrenches and flashlights to more complex items like furniture and robots, as covered in the training examples. Expertise in editing objects, applying materials and textures, and producing high-quality renders is fundamental for producing realistic and production-ready props. This course helps you build a versatile portfolio demonstrating your ability to model any object with precision and artistic flair.
Computer Aided Design Designer
A Computer Aided Design Designer utilizes specialized software to create precise technical drawings, models, and simulations for a wide range of industries, including engineering, manufacturing, and architecture. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course is extremely well-suited for this career path, as SelfCAD itself is a powerful 3D modeling tool with strong CAD-like features. You will master the creation of basic and advanced shapes, precise object transformation and editing, Boolean operations, and working with sketches. These skills are fundamental for accurately designing components and assemblies, ensuring models are geometrically sound and ready for production or analysis. This course helps you develop the foundational technical proficiency required by a Computer Aided Design Designer.
Architectural Visualizer
An Architectural Visualizer specializes in creating realistic digital representations of buildings, interiors, and urban landscapes from blueprints or conceptual drawings. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course offers highly applicable skills for this specialized role. You will learn to create detailed 3D objects, arrange them effectively using alignment and placement tools, and build complex scenes. The course's comprehensive modules on adding and editing materials and textures, setting environments, and generating high-quality renders are critically important for producing photorealistic architectural images and walkthroughs. This training helps you develop the precision and artistic eye necessary to translate architectural visions into compelling digital experiences.
Additive Manufacturing Designer
An Additive Manufacturing Designer creates three dimensional models specifically optimized for production using additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course is highly relevant for this specialized design field. You will learn precision object creation, working with geometric primitives, and performing various operations on objects like extruding, hollowing, and simplifying. Understanding how to manage vertices, segments, and and faces, along with Boolean operations, is crucial for creating watertight and printable models. This course helps build a foundational understanding of designing robust and functional objects, specifically tailored for efficient and successful 3D printing processes.
Product Designer
As a Product Designer, you are responsible for the entire lifecycle of a product, from initial concept to final visualization, focusing on usability, aesthetics, and functionality. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course is highly relevant for this career, equipping you with essential skills to prototype and showcase your designs digitally. You will gain proficiency in creating detailed objects using sketches, refining shapes with various editing tools, and assembling components. The course's emphasis on adding materials, setting environments, and generating high-quality renders is invaluable for presenting realistic product concepts to stakeholders. This training helps you develop a strong portfolio demonstrating your ability to translate ideas into tangible, visually compelling product models, vital for any aspiring Product Designer.
Game Asset Artist
A Game Asset Artist creates all the three dimensional models, textures, and sometimes animations for video games, from characters and props to environmental elements. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course is incredibly beneficial for aspiring Game Asset Artists. It provides solid training in creating diverse objects, utilizing sculpting tools for organic forms, and applying materials and textures to bring assets to life. The course also introduces the basics of animation, a valuable skill for game development. By mastering these features, you will be well-equipped to contribute high-quality, optimized assets to game projects and build a portfolio showcasing your versatility in game art creation.
Industrial Designer
An Industrial Designer shapes the form and function of manufactured products, considering user experience, aesthetics, and manufacturing processes. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course helps build a strong foundation for this dynamic field. It teaches you to conceptualize and detail objects, from basic shapes to complex assemblies like furniture and robots, covering crucial techniques such as sculpting and using a construction tree. The ability to add materials, textures, and create renders directly translates to visualizing product prototypes and communicating design intent effectively. For an Industrial Designer, mastering these digital modeling skills is paramount for iterative design and presenting innovative solutions.
Jewelry Designer
A Jewelry Designer conceptualizes and crafts intricate pieces of jewelry, often blending artistic vision with an understanding of precious materials and manufacturing techniques. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course is highly beneficial for a digital Jewelry Designer, as it teaches precision modeling necessary for small, detailed objects. You will gain expertise in working at the vertex, segment, and face level, creating complex shapes like spirals, and utilizing sculpting tools for organic forms. The ability to add materials and textures is essential for visualizing how different metals and gemstones will appear. This course helps you create detailed, accurate 3D models suitable for presentation, prototyping, and even direct 3D printing for fabrication.
Virtual Reality Environment Creator
A Virtual Reality Environment Creator designs and builds immersive digital worlds and interactive spaces for virtual reality applications, games, or simulations. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course provides essential skills for this cutting-edge role. You will gain extensive experience in 3D modeling, including creating and assembling diverse objects, applying materials and textures, and managing complex scenes using the construction tree. The capacity to create renders and set environments is crucial for visualizing the virtual world. This training helps you develop the foundational expertise in crafting detailed, visually rich virtual spaces that are key to engaging and believable VR experiences.
Exhibit Designer
An Exhibit Designer conceives and develops engaging physical or digital displays for museums, trade shows, retail spaces, or events, creating immersive experiences for visitors. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course helps build a strong foundation for an Exhibit Designer, as it teaches fundamental skills in spatial arrangement and object creation. You will learn to model various components, from furniture to custom props, and to arrange them effectively within a virtual space using alignment and placement tools. The course’s emphasis on adding materials, textures, and creating renders is valuable for visualizing and presenting exhibit concepts to clients or stakeholders, allowing for dynamic and communicative design proposals.
Visualize Effects Artist
A Visualize Effects Artist specializes in creating digital illusions and enhancing cinematic experiences for film, television, commercials, or immersive media using computer graphics. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course helps build a foundation for this demanding role. It emphasizes detailed 3D object creation, complex surface manipulation, material application, and realistic rendering. These skills are crucial for generating props, environments, or specific effects that seamlessly integrate into live-action footage or purely digital scenes. The course's ability to create and manipulate a wide array of objects and prepare them for compelling visual output is highly relevant for an aspiring Visualize Effects Artist.
Technical Illustrator
A Technical Illustrator creates clear, informative visual representations of complex objects, processes, or instructions for technical manuals, patents, or educational materials. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course helps build a foundation for a Technical Illustrator, as it provides strong training in precise object creation and manipulation. You will learn to build detailed models, apply various editing operations like extrude, fillet, and chamfer, and create symmetries. These skills are vital for generating accurate 3D views, exploded diagrams, or assembly sequences. The course’s ability to create basic and advanced objects with detailed control helps in producing the unambiguous, precise visuals that are the hallmark of effective technical illustration.
Animator
An Animator brings characters, objects, or visual elements to life through movement, creating compelling sequences for film, television, games, or interactive media. The SelfCAD 3D modeling course helps build a foundation for an Animator, especially by introducing the basics of animation. While primarily focused on modeling, understanding how to construct, manipulate, and prepare 3D objects is a pivotal preliminary skill. The ability to create individual models, add intricate details, and set up basic movements directly within a 3D environment helps you grasp fundamental principles of motion and timing, which are essential for any Animator. This course provides a strong conceptual entry point into digitally driven storytelling.

Reading list

We've selected 50 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in SelfCAD 3D the complete course 3D modeling.
Is widely considered the bible for animators, covering fundamental animation principles applicable to all forms, including 3D. It is an essential resource for gaining a broad understanding of movement, timing, and spacing. This book is commonly used as a textbook in academic institutions and by industry professionals. While not specific to 3D software, its principles are crucial for creating believable 3D animation.
The third edition of the highly acclaimed 'Physically Based Rendering' book. While the fourth edition is the most up-to-date, the third edition is still a valuable and comprehensive resource for understanding the principles and practice of physically based rendering, and is often more readily available.
Explores the use of 3D design in education, discussing its benefits, challenges, and best practices.
Authored by a renowned Disney animator, this book provides a practical approach to character animation, focusing on bringing personality and life to animated characters. It offers actionable techniques and insights applicable to 3D character animation, serving as a valuable resource for deepening understanding and is considered a must-read for those interested in character performance.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sculpture of the Roman Empire. It is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the development of sculpture in the Roman world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sculpture of the Renaissance. It is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the development of sculpture in the Renaissance world.
Provides a comprehensive overview of algorithms for realistic image synthesis, focusing on global illumination techniques. It's a valuable resource for graduate students and researchers interested in the theoretical foundations and practical implementation of advanced rendering methods beyond basic local illumination.
Offers a broad introduction to the field of computer graphics, covering fundamental concepts essential for understanding rendering. It serves as an excellent textbook for undergraduate students and provides a solid foundation before diving into more specialized rendering topics. It balances theory with practical examples.
Based on the first two editions of 'Physically Based Rendering', this book focuses on using the PBRT system to learn about realistic image synthesis. It's a practical companion to the main PBR book for those who want to work with a functional rendering system.
Guide to creating realistic and immersive architectural visualizations, covering techniques, best practices, and industry-specific considerations.
Understanding acting principles is vital for creating believable animated characters. explores how actors approach performance and translates these concepts for animators. It's a valuable resource for deepening understanding of character performance and is considered a must-read for character animators.
Timing critical element in animation, and this book provides a focused and in-depth exploration of this principle. It offers practical examples and analysis of how timing affects weight, force, and character. While an older publication, the principles remain timeless and are directly applicable to 3D animation, making it a valuable resource for deepening understanding. It is considered a classic in the field.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sculpture of Rodin. It is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the work of one of the greatest sculptors of the 19th century.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sculpture of Michelangelo. It is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the work of one of the greatest sculptors of all time.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sculpture of Anish Kapoor. It is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the work of one of the most important sculptors of the 21st century.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sculpture of Antony Gormley. It is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the work of one of the most important sculptors of the 21st century.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the sculpture of the Hellenistic Age. It is an essential read for anyone interested in learning about the development of sculpture in the Greek world.
Focusing specifically on character animation within Blender, this book guides readers through the process of creating and animating 3D characters. It's a practical resource for those interested in this specialization and helps solidify understanding through hands-on examples.
This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step introduction to Blender, a widely used open-source 3D creation suite. It covers modeling, animation, rendering, and more, making it suitable for beginners to gain a broad understanding of the 3D pipeline within a specific software. It practical, project-based book that can serve as a textbook for introductory courses on Blender.
A series of books that collect articles on various advanced rendering techniques and algorithms implemented on the GPU. While older editions might be less current, they provide valuable insights into the evolution of real-time rendering and GPU programming. More recent editions focus on contemporary topics.
Effective lighting and rendering are crucial for the final look of 3D animations. highly respected guide to the principles and techniques of digital lighting and rendering, applicable across different 3D software. It is valuable for deepening understanding of this technical aspect of 3D production.
Considered a foundational text in new media theory, this book examines the principles and aesthetics of digital media and their impact on art and culture. It's crucial for understanding the theoretical underpinnings of digital art and provides a framework for critical analysis. is more theoretical and suitable for those looking to deepen their understanding of the academic discourse around digital art.
Analyzes the impact of the internet and digital technologies on contemporary art, exploring themes like digitality, circulation, privacy, and globalization. It's excellent for diving into current topics and understanding how digital art engages with broader societal and political issues. It's valuable for deepening understanding of the contemporary landscape.
Is an excellent reference for artists focusing on character and creature modeling. It provides detailed anatomical information specifically tailored for sculpting, with clear illustrations and explanations of muscle and bone structures. It must-have resource for digital sculptors aiming for anatomical accuracy.
Provides a project-based approach to learning animation in Blender, taking readers through the entire process of creating a short animated film. It's practical for gaining a broad understanding of the animation pipeline within Blender and is suitable for those who learn by doing.
Is considered a foundational text in the field of computer graphics, providing a comprehensive overview of the principles behind 3D modeling, rendering, and animation. While it theoretical book, the concepts covered are essential for a deep understanding of how 3D graphics software works. It is often used as a textbook in undergraduate and graduate computer graphics programs. This book is more valuable as a foundational reference than a hands-on software guide.
Focuses on Physically Based Rendering (PBR) texturing using Substance Painter, a key tool in modern 3D workflows for creating realistic materials. It covers essential concepts and techniques for creating high-quality textures. This book is valuable for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of texturing, a crucial aspect of creating convincing 3D models.
Classic introduction to cartoon animation principles, offering clear and accessible guidance on character design, movement, and dialogue animation. While focused on 2D, the fundamental concepts of squash and stretch, anticipation, and follow-through are directly transferable to 3D animation, making it excellent for gaining a broad understanding, especially for beginners. It's a valuable foundational text.
Known as the 'Red Book,' this comprehensive guide to programming with OpenGL, a widely used graphics API. It's essential for anyone implementing rendering algorithms and working directly with the graphics pipeline. It serves as both a tutorial and a reference.
This anthology highlights critical perspectives on the use of digital technology in art history and museums, addressing theoretical and political aspects. It's highly relevant for those interested in contemporary issues surrounding digitization, data, and the institutional impact on digital art. It's suitable for deepening understanding of current critical discourse.
This project-based book allows readers to learn Blender by creating practical examples. It covers various aspects of 3D production, including modeling, texturing, rendering with EEVEE, and using Grease Pencil, providing a hands-on approach to gaining a broad understanding of Blender's capabilities for animation and graphics.
Offers a modern introduction to the animation filmmaking process, covering various aspects from concept to completion. It provides a broad overview suitable for beginners looking to understand the entire pipeline, including elements relevant to 3D animation production.
Dives into creating realistic materials and textures within Blender's Cycles render engine. It's a practical guide for artists wanting to enhance the visual quality of their 3D models through advanced texturing and shading techniques. It covers procedural texturing and leveraging look development concepts.
Introduces the powerful procedural workflow of Houdini, a software heavily used in visual effects and animation. It covers procedural modeling, simulations, and rendering. This book is valuable for those interested in contemporary 3D topics like procedural content generation and complex visual effects. It is suitable for beginner to intermediate users of Houdini.
A crucial resource for understanding the mathematical foundations behind 3D graphics and rendering. It covers linear algebra, calculus, and other mathematical concepts essential for implementing rendering algorithms. It's a valuable reference for students and professionals.
Provides a fundamental understanding of the core concepts in 3D graphics, including modeling, rendering, and animation. It's suitable for beginners looking to grasp the essential skills required in a 3D production pipeline, offering a broad foundational understanding.
While not solely focused on animation, strong 3D modeling skills are foundational for 3D animation. comprehensive guide to digital sculpting and modeling techniques, essential for creating the assets that will be animated. It is valuable for those looking to deepen their understanding of the technical pipeline of 3D production.
Published by SideFX, the creators of Houdini, this book provides a foundational understanding of Houdini's node-based procedural workflow. It's an excellent starting point for artists new to Houdini and interested in procedural modeling and its applications in games and film. It includes lessons for building simple projects.
While not exclusively about digital art, this book is considered a must-read for any artist, including digital painters, seeking to deepen their understanding of fundamental art principles like color and light. It provides a strong foundation in traditional concepts that are directly applicable to digital mediums. is more valuable as foundational reading to solidify artistic understanding rather than a direct reference for digital tools.
Offers a comprehensive course in digital animation, covering principles, practices, and techniques applicable to various software. It provides a structured approach to learning animation, suitable for gaining a broad understanding of the field in a digital context.
Beginner-friendly guide to Unity, a game engine for creating interactive 3D experiences.
Provides a gentle introduction to 3D rendering for programmers with minimal prior graphics knowledge. It focuses on building a raytracer and a rasterizer from scratch, making core concepts accessible. It's suitable for beginners and those who want to understand the underlying mechanics of rendering.
Focuses on the artistic and technical aspects of lighting and rendering for creating compelling 3D images. It's highly practical and software-agnostic, making it relevant for users of various rendering programs. It's a great resource for improving the visual quality of renders.
Practical guide to 3D modeling, covering techniques and best practices for creating 3D models using industry-standard software.
Provides a comprehensive guide to Solid Edge, another popular CAD software package. It covers topics such as Solid Edge user interface, part modeling, assembly modeling, and drawing creation.

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