I first began experimenting with 3D using GMax in 2003 when it was bundled with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2004. It took me around a year to get familiar with the interface. I later transitioned to 3DS Max and to continue to favor that application.
In 2004, I was introduced to the Virtual World Second Life. Although I enjoyed creating in SL, I struggled to get the hang of it compared to my experience with GMax or 3DS Max. However, in 2010, SL introduced mesh, which allowed me to use 3DS Max to create objects and import them into the Virtual Grid. This marked the birth of Design Creations. Alongside my wife, Nikki, we embarked on a creative journey, producing houses, furniture, architectural features, and various items. We eventually transitioned from SL to InWorldz and even attempted our own grid. Unfortunately, we lost interest and stopped creating due to the frustration caused by people's demanding behavior and the drama that ensued in the virtual worlds.
We took a break from the virtual world but had a windfall in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. This allowed us to dust off Design Creations, convert our garage into a workshop-den, acquire tools such as a GlowForge, 3D printer, and small CNC machine, and get back to creating!
I've been consistently refining my 3D printing knowledge and skills, relearning 3D modeling techniques, and exploring laser engraving, etching, and cutting. I'm even attempting to master CNC machining, which has proven to be a challenging task.
Currently, I spend most of my time downloading and modifying designs from Thingiverse, MakersWorld, Printables, MyMiniFactory, and Cults3D. Occasionally, I'll create 'from scratch' designs as needed. I'm not an "organic" modeler; I don't have the talent to create characters or similar designs. Instead, I focus on architectural items, inorganic objects, building blocks, and very geometric designs. On occasion, I get creative and come up with something more fluid, but that usually requires a particularly good day and possibly an "altered state of mind." (And we won't go into details about what that means... ;-) Let's just say it often involves long periods of insomnia and lack of sleep!)
Recently, I've been exploring new software and expanding my skills by delving into AutoCAD, Revit, and Inventor. I'm excited to improve my precision in design work and take advantage of Revit's unique interface, which offers a distinct approach to architectural designs.
Fun times ahead!
The "Trolls and Oompa Loompas of Design Creations
Chief Cook and Bottle Washer
"If I can make it I can break it!
Or was that the other way around?"
Artist ​Extraordinaire
"Normal? What's so great about normal?"
I like to color outside the lines!