The first study model. It started from simple geometric forms—circles and curves.

Laser cutting with 5T foamex board. I booked a makerspace where you could use equipment for free if you knew how to operate it yourself, but I didn’t realize foamex shouldn’t be laser cut. It’s really harmful to your health, which is why most workshops refuse to do it.

I had to model somehow, but I had no skills. So I used the first 3D tool I learned, the iPad app Shapr. Its overall method is similar to SketchUp—sketching on a solid mass and then push/pulling certain areas.

After failing with foamex, I went back another day and cut MDF parts for the model. The line patterns on the surface allowed the 5T MDF boards to bend into curves. A useful trick I still remember from making models.

I assembled the cut pieces like Lego blocks. With my limited modeling skills, implementing the spiral staircase inside was really tough.

The model itself looked clean, but during the final critique I was criticized for the burn marks from laser cutting. Ever since then, I always sand the cut edges after laser cutting.

The day before the critique—models made by upperclassmen. During critique season, walking around and seeing other years’ models is always fun.

Complete! Hehe—here’s the presentation with drawings and the model together.