Creating 3D logo from type using StudioPro Blitz

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StudioPro Blitz is the latest, PowerMac-only version of a long-standing 3D software. Unlike other programs we have seen before, it is not the clear winner in its field since the 3D marketplace is very fragmented. It does, however, follow the user interface approach used by all the dominant players, and it embodies all the major aspects of 3D work: modeling, rendering, and animation.


Basic Logo:

  1. Change the configuration of the computer for 3D work:
  2. Find the application icon in the 3D Modeling folder and start the program:
    the StudioPro application icon
  3. Use File-->New to create a new document.
  4. Choose the Text tool (the 10th from the top in the left half of the toolbox, marked with a 'T'). Click in the document window to bring up the text entry dialog:
  5. Use the Magnification tool (the 3rd from the top in the left half of the toolbox) to get a closer view at the type you created.
  6. Click on the icon at the top-left of the document window to switch to wireframe view:
    wireframe display button
    wireframe view of type
  7. You can switch to isometric view to verify that the type is a flat object (use the pop-up menu at the top-left of the document window). Make sure to return to Front view afterwards.
    isometric view of type
  8. Choose the selection tool (top-right of Toolbox), then use it to select the type.
    the selection tool in the toolbox
  9. Use Modeling-->Ungroup to separate the letters, then Selection-->Select None to deselect.
  10. Now select one of the letters so it can be converted to a 3D object
    a letter selected
  11. Use Modeling-->Swept Surfaces-->Extrude. Extrusion is a basic technique available in most 3D programs. It converts a 2D outline into a 3D slab, optionally adding a bevel to the edges of the slab.
  12. The selected letter is now a 3D object, since Extrude added thickness to it. Look at it in Isometric view to check. Make sure to return to Front view afterwards.
    extruded letter, front view
    extruded letter, isometric view
  13. Continue processing additional letters in the same manner, until all have been turned into 3D objects (make sure to always return to Front view before using the Extrude command)
    all letters converted to 3D objects
    You can also experiment with different depth values to vary the appearance of each letter.
  14. Once you have converted all the letters to 3D objects, you can create a more interesting composition using the transformation tools:
  15. Make sure to save your work: File-->Save As, choose StudioPro format, enter any filename you want.
    save as StudioPro file

Optional Additional Elements

If you have time, you might want to use some additional modeling tools to create a more complex scene. You can again start from a flat 2D shape, converting it to 3D using a second command generally available in all 3D programs: Lathe. Or you can start directly with basic 3D shapes called Primitives.

Creating a Lathed Pedestal

  1. Change your view of the workspace
  2. Draw the outline of the pedestal

Building Up a Room From 3D Primitives

  1. Change your view of the workspace
  2. Create the floor and walls
  3. Cut windows and doors out of the walls
  4. Add the roof
Before leaving, make sure your file is saved so you can continue working with it in the next session.

Additional Info:


Copyright by Sandro Corsi. Last modified 27 APR 97.