I'm still very new to 3d modeling (I've only completed a couple of the basic courses) and I'm sure most of my questions will be answered as I complete more courses, but I figured I'd ask a few anyway while they're in my head.
I'm modeling an old IBM 5150 and have applied a subsurface modifier to it. I'm controlling the edges with edge loops to pull them in, and in the beginning, this was working well enough for me. As I continued adding edge loops though, I noticed that they really started to clutter the geometry. This is a pretty simple thing to model so it didn't give me too much trouble, but I can't see this process being feasible for something more complex.
Am I wrong in thinking this? For someone who knows what they're doing, how would you break down how to model something in this way?
Hi yayitsdan,
first of all, I think that an IBM 5150 is definitely not an easy thing to model. Certainly not for a beginner. I know I could do it, but it would not be simple for me and I am not a beginner.
That being said, if you want to model this, by all means, go for it. It's a great model.
Edge loops can become messy, but they're probably the easiest way in this case. (For a beginner, and I don't mean that denigrating in any way!)
I'd say, keep doing it the way you are going (and should you get stuck, maybe switch to something a little bit easier).
It won't be the best topology (edge loops going all the way around your model), but a hell of a model anyway. And it will probably inspire you to learn a bit more about topology and modelling before going on.
I know it's tempting, you want to make something amazing immediately, but it just takes time; there is a lot to learn.
Sorry I can't just tell you in a few words how to do this.
Sorry I can't just tell you in a few words how to do this.
No problem man, I appreciate the words of encouragement.
It won't be the best topology (edge loops going all the way around your model)
This is exactly what I'm talking about. It seems like there are a lot of unknowns for me, which strangely enough is encouraging to me. I'll just keep continuing through the modeling learning flow and hope that I learn better ways to do what I want than what I'm currently doing.
yyayitsdan the mesh modeling boot camp course has specific lessons on topology and how to better approach it. Doing everything in that course will set you up for success in your personal projects 👍🏻