Amazing TinkerCAD Curved Text Tutorial
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Creating Curved Text on a Rounded Shape
2.1 Renaming the File
2.2 Selecting the Extruded Curve Shape Generator
2.3 Resizing the Extruded Curve
2.4 Adding Text to the Shape
2.5 Resizing and Rotating the Text
2.6 Aligning the Text
- Adding a Box Shape
3.1 Changing the Color of the Box
3.2 Adjusting the Size of the Box
3.3 Lifting the Box to Cover Only the Letters
- Turning the Letters into a Hole
4.1 Selecting the Lettering and the Box
4.2 Grouping the Lettering and the Box
4.3 Duplicating and Shrinking the Extruded Curve
4.4 Aligning and Grouping the Shapes
4.5 Changing the Color of the Lettering
- Creating Curved Text on a Cylinder
- Creating Curved Text on a Half Sphere
- Completing the Assignment
- Exporting the Design for 3D Printing
- Conclusion
Creating Curved Text on Any Rounded Shape
In this tutorial, we will learn how to make curved text on any rounded shape using Autodesk's software. This technique will allow you to create unique designs by bending text along the curves of different shapes. We will specifically focus on creating curved text on a cylinder and a half sphere. Before we begin, make sure to rename your file to easily identify it. Let's dive into the step-by-step process.
1. Introduction
In this video tutorial, we will explore the process of creating curved text on any rounded shape using Autodesk software. By following these steps, you will be able to create curved text designs on a cylinder and a half sphere. This technique offers endless possibilities for creating visually appealing and unique designs. So, let's get started and unlock the potential of curved text.
2. Creating Curved Text on a Rounded Shape
To create curved text on a rounded shape, we first need to select a suitable rounded shape from the shape generator section. In this tutorial, we will use the extruded curve shape. Follow these steps:
2.1 Renaming the File
Before we start, it is essential to rename the file. By adding your name and the name of the design (e.g., "Your Name - Curved Text"), you can easily identify your work.
2.2 Selecting the Extruded Curve Shape Generator
In the shape menu, locate the shape generator section and click on "All." Navigate to page eight and find the extruded curve shape. Drag it onto the work plane. To rotate the shape 90 degrees, hold the Shift key while rotating.
2.3 Resizing the Extruded Curve
To resize the extruded curve, hold the Shift key and grab one of the white corner buttons. This will resize the shape uniformly along all three axes. Adjust the size to make it more manageable for working.
2.4 Adding Text to the Shape
In the shape menu, select "Text and Numbers." Choose a text shape that suits your design vision. Alternatively, you can use the provided text shape for simplicity. Resize the text shape by holding Shift and shrinking it down to fit the extruded curve.
2.5 Resizing and Rotating the Text
To make the text stand upright, rotate it 90 degrees by grabbing the top arrow and bringing it up. Adjust the text size to ensure it fits nicely on the shape.
2.6 Aligning the Text
To make the alignment process easier, select "Align" from the menu. This will help you bring the text and the shape into perfect alignment. It is a good practice in case you accidentally miss any steps.
3. Adding a Box Shape
To create a more visually distinct design, we will add a box shape behind the curved text. This will allow the letters to stick out on both sides of the shape. Follow these steps:
3.1 Changing the Color of the Box
In the shape menu, select "Basic Shapes" and choose a box shape. Change the color of the box to differentiate it from the curved text.
3.2 Adjusting the Size of the Box
Resize the box shape to make it wider than the extruded curve and thicker. The goal is to ensure the letters protrude from both sides of the shape.
3.3 Lifting the Box to Cover Only the Letters
Position the box shape to cover only the letters and not the extruded curve. This will create a visually appealing effect where the letters appear to be punched through the shape.
4. Turning the Letters into a Hole
To make the curved text act as a hole on the shape, follow these steps:
4.1 Selecting the Lettering and the Box
Using the Shift key, select the lettering and the box shape. Make sure you do not select the extruded curve in this step.
4.2 Grouping the Lettering and the Box
Group the selected lettering and box shape together. This will result in the lettering punching through the box.
4.3 Duplicating and Shrinking the Extruded Curve
Duplicate the extruded curve shape and move it away from the grouped shape. Shrink the duplicated shape until it is just below the surface of the grouped shape, appearing as a shadow.
4.4 Aligning and Grouping the Shapes
Select both the grouped shape and the duplicated extruded curve. Align them to ensure they are centered and positioned correctly. Group the shapes together.
4.5 Changing the Color of the Lettering
To change the color of the lettering, click on the solid color option and choose from a variety of colors. This will determine the color of your lettering.
5. Creating Curved Text on a Cylinder
Now that you have learned the process of creating curved text on a rounded shape, we can apply the same technique on a cylinder. Follow the previous steps and create curved text on the cylinder shape.
6. Creating Curved Text on a Half Sphere
To further enhance your design skills, try creating curved text on a half sphere shape. Apply the same process described before and see how the curved text adapts to the shape.
7. Completing the Assignment
To complete this assignment, create all three designs: curved text on a rounded shape, curved text on a cylinder, and curved text on a half sphere. Once you finish creating each design, move them out of the way and zoom out to get them out of your working area.
8. Exporting the Design for 3D Printing
To export your design for 3D printing, go to the "Export" menu and select "STL." Make sure to select everything in the design and choose the STL file format for 3D printing.
9. Conclusion
Congratulations! You have learned how to create curved text on any rounded shape using Autodesk software. This versatile technique allows you to create visually stunning designs on various 3D objects. Experiment with different shapes and colors to unleash your creativity. Have fun exploring the possibilities of curved text design!