SolidWorks® Surfacing and Complex Shape Modeling Bible

Chapter 19. Modeling Decorative Features

IN THIS CHAPTER

• Modeling an egg–and–dart pattern

• Modeling a woven pattern

• Modeling a flower–trumpet finial

• Modeling a fleur–de–lis decorative piece

• Modeling a scroll

• Modeling a botanical shape

Decorative techniques in SolidWorks can be extremely difficult and time consuming. Often the biggest difficulty comes from visualizing the finished shape and the steps that are required to create it. To be perfectly honest, SolidWorks is not really meant for this kind of work, and this kind of work is not really meant for parametrics, but nonetheless, we are still called upon to do it from time to time. Decorative work, when it needs to be done explicitly in 3D, is often done by hand sculpting. When done on the computer, it is often done in software like Rhino. It is not impossible with a history–based modeler, although it is not usually easy.

The range of potential shapes and techniques that you can run into is mind–boggling. The kinds of shapes I am talking about are not found in products as much today as, say, a hundred years ago, when shapes were created by hand sculpting and casting. Think about floral and leaf patterns in cast–iron lampposts, or cast–concrete birdbaths. Think about cast–iron fences, curtain rod finials, and decorative fireplace mantels. Think about decorative architectural details and indoor lighting fixtures. Think about garden decorations, decorative shelf brackets, and hand railing panels. Somebody designed these products, and they ...