Use Blender to Convert Images to 3D printable models!

Use Blender to Convert Images to 3D Printable Models!

When you want to transform a 2D image into a 3D representation for 3D printing but lack sculpting skills, Blender offers a practical approach. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Enable Images as Planes Add-on

1. Open Blender and go to Edit > Preferences.

2. In the Preferences window, search for “Images as Planes” and enable it.

   Preferences > Add-ons > Images as Planes
   

Step 2: Import the Image

1. Press Shift + A to add an object.
2. Navigate to Image > Images as Planes.
3. Choose the image you wish to convert. Switch to the texture mode to see it.

Step 3: Subdivide the Plane

1. With the plane selected, go to the Modifiers panel.
2. Add a Subdivision Surface modifier.
3. Set the subdivision level to 10 and switch to Simple mode.
4. Apply the modifier by pressing Ctrl + A.

Step 4: Displace the Plane

1. Add a Displace modifier to the plane.
2. Click New to create a new texture.
3. Use the same UV coordinates as the imported image by selecting UV.
4. In the Texture panel, set the Type to Image or Movie.
5. Choose your image from the drop-down menu.

Adjust the displacement strength in the modifier tab:

Strength: .006

Step 5: Sculpting the Model

1. Enter Sculpt Mode by pressing Tab and then selecting Sculpt Mode.
2. Go to the Symmetry section and lock the X and Y axes.
3. Use the Blob Tool to raise or lower areas as needed.
4. Work through the model, adjusting the brush size with F and the falloff with Shift + F.

For straight lines, use Stabilize Stroke or switch to Line mode.

Step 6: Solidify for Printing

To solidify the model without distorting details:

1. Enter Edit Mode.
2. Select the boundary loop with Select > Select Loops > Boundary Loop.
3. Extrude the boundary loop downwards along the Z-axis by pressing E then Z.
4. Duplicate the top faces with Shift + D and align them by moving down along the Z-axis.
5. Select everything, then create an edge loop by pressing Ctrl + E > Bridge Edge Loops.
6. Ensure all normals face outward using Shift + N (check face orientation).

Finally, you have a model ready for 3D printing.

Keywords

• Blender
• 3D printing
• Images as Planes
• Subdivision Surface
• Displacement Modifier
• Sculpt Mode
• Solidify
• Editing Mode
• Normals

FAQ

1. How do I import an image into Blender?

   • Use the Images as Planes add-on found under Shift + A > Image > Images as Planes.

2. What should be the subdivision level?

   • Set it to around 10 for a good balance between detail and performance.

3. How do I displace a plane using an image?

   • Add a Displace modifier, create a new texture using UV coordinates, and use the same image.

4. How do I ensure straight lines in Sculpt Mode?

   • Use Stabilize Stroke or switch to Line mode.

5. Can I solidify without deforming edges?

   • Yes, enter Edit Mode, select the boundary loop, extrude it down, duplicate top faces, align them, and bridge edge loops.

6. Why should I check the normals?

   • Incorrect normals can affect 3D printing. Use Shift + N to ensure they all face outward.