Here is the very last interview of a 3D designer passionate about 3D printing. This time around, we’re off to explore Mag-Net, a graphic designer and production manager who lives in Ohio. This American has been working in large format (2D) digital printing since 1999. It was in 2007 that he started working with Sketchup as a visualization tool for larger graphic projects. Then he discovered 3D printing!
“When I started, I designed point-of-sale displays, sports facilities and various 3D signs. I always wanted to 3D print my models but I did not yet have access to a 3D printer. In 2016, I was very excited to find that the performance of 3D printers had risen a lot when their price had dropped enough that I would consider buying one. I then realized that there were many, many similarities between the world of work in 2D printing and 3D printing! ”
For his inspiration, he immerses himself in the world of renowned artists and tries to reproduce their works in the most beautiful and efficient way.
“I am mainly inspired by the amazing artists who invented a whole universe. I really enjoy spending time deciphering their works, looking for reference images and extrapolating a 3D image. What motivates me the most is to learn thanks to these projects, I see that I still have a lot of techniques to learn to perfect my 3D modeling. ”
Regarding 3D modeling itself, Mag-net has had several churches.
“At the end of 2016, after buying a 3D printer, I started using the free Sculptris program. My first twelve models were therefore designed with this 3D software. I then started training on ZbrushCore a few months later so that I could design more complex models. I recently purchased the full version of Zbrush and really appreciate the new tools. For the finalization of the object before printing (size, alignments, supports) I use MeshMixer. “
And at the hardware level, his current printer is a Prusa i3 Mk2 which he uses with PLA and the default settings (0.15 layer height).
“I wait patiently for the price of SLA printers to drop to buy one. I wish I could add even more detail to my designs and print them in a smaller size. But hey, I’m starting to run out of space in my library! ”
Like many designers we have interviewed, when it comes to talking about his favorite creation, Mag-Net wants to cite his latest one.
“My favorite creation is usually the last model I made. This enthusiasm lasts about a week. If I had to really choose, I would say the Tsumugi model from the Knights of Sidonia. I love the original character design. I also really like the way the model is constantly changing in terms of textures. I would have liked to spend an extra month on this design in order to add even more detail. “
You can find all of the designer’s 3D models on Cults. And to discover his news you can follow him on Twitter.
What is your favorite model? Share your opinion in the comments of the article or with members of the 3Dnatives forum.