I learned how to sculpt and print three dimensional objects to find another outlet for creativity. I created a creature as an assignment for my Cryptozoology class. I started by sculpting it on an iPad using an App called 123D Sculpt.  I had to save it as a mesh file on my iPad and transfer the file to a PC. From there it had to be converted to an obj. file and opened using MakerBot software. From there I had to adjust the size and angles to  add stability.  The first time I printed, I did not add supports and it turned out a messy blob. I had to go back and find my mistake before I could reprint, but then I was pretty happy with the results.

This was an original design of a swamp creature. I paid attention to small details like webbing on the feat whish would allow it to move quickly in the swamp. I also moved the eyes to the top  of the ear structure so that it could hide underwater easily.  I wanted it to be more cute than menacing, so I added a quirky little smile.

One thing that I had to learn is that I needed to really think about the printing process as I sculpted, with special attention to how parts of my work would be supported during the printing process.  One thing that surprised me was that it was often easier to print things on their side or upside down. For people who were just starting out, I would advise them to expect to fail a few times and just stick with it.